Meaning & Definition of word "Deductible"

Deductible

/dɪˈdʌk.tɪ.bəl/

noun:

  • 1. A specified amount that must be paid out of pocket before an insurance policy begins to cover costs.
    • Example: She had to pay the deductible of $1,000 before her health insurance covered the remainder of her medical bills.
  • 2. An expense or amount that can be deducted from gross income to reduce taxable income.
    • Example: In some cases, mortgage interest is considered a deductible expense.

adjective:

  • 1. Able to be deducted from a total or claimed as an expense.
    • Example: Certain business expenses are deductible on your tax return.
  • 2. Referring to the amount that must be paid before an insurance company will pay a claim.
    • Example: The car insurance policy has a $500 deductible, meaning you pay the first $500 of any claim.

Etymology

From the Latin 'deductibilis', meaning 'able to be deducted'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

high deductible:

A deductible that is significantly more than usual, often associated with lower monthly premiums in insurance.

deductible expense:

An expense that can be deducted from income before tax is calculated.

Related Words

deduction:

The amount that is subtracted from a total.

insurance:

A practice or policy providing protection against financial loss or risk.

Slang Meanings of deductible

Meaning: Out-of-pocket

Example Sentence: You’ll have to cover the out-of-pocket costs until you hit your deductible.

Meaning: Insured's share

Example Sentence: You’ll need to pay your insured's share before the insurance kicks in.