what information do underwriters look at 
whether they are lending money or providing insurance underwriters examine the financials of each applicant to determine how much risk they are taking on and the likelihood of losing money this is generally done by comparison to historical data if applicants with a similar risk profile tend to default x of the time then the premiums or interest rate will be priced at a rate that assumes an x probability of default underwriters for personal loans and insurance will look at available data about the applicant for loans they might examine the borrower s income savings employment status and credit history underwriters will also assess the capacity for repaying the loan and the value of any assets that are used for collateral 5 for life insurance they might also look at medical history plus such risk factors as dangerous hobbies hazardous occupations and smoking or drinking habits 6securities underwriters will look at the financial situation of the issuer such as their income statements cash flow debts and any other potential liabilities before pricing a bond or stock issue they will also examine the issuer s credit rating the institutional equivalent of a personal credit score 