Actuary how-to

How to Estimate Claims Not Yet Reported

IBNR reserves cover future surprises.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

IBNR reserves cover future surprises. In short: gather; calculate; select, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Gather loss triangles.

  2. Calculate development factors.

  3. Select factors.

  4. Project ultimate losses.

  5. Subtract reported.

  6. Review reasonableness.

Safety reminders for actuaries

  • Follow actuarial standards of practice
  • Protect confidential data
  • Document assumptions
  • Disclose limitations

Mortality table · Reserve · Premium · Loss ratio · Credibility · Present value: see the full actuary glossary.

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