Unless otherwise specified in rule, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter:

(1) "Advisory organization" means an entity not licensed under RCW 48.19.180 that files advisory rates with the commissioner.

(2) "Complete filing" means a package of information containing rates, supporting information, documents and exhibits submitted to the commissioner electronically using the System for Electronic Rate and Form Filing (SERFF).

(3) "Date filed" means the date a complete filing has been received and accepted by the commissioner.

(4) "Filer" means a person, organization or other entity that files insurance rates with the commissioner for an insurer.

(5) "Insurance" means the same as in RCW 48.01.040.

(6) "Insurer" means an insurer defined in RCW 48.01.050 to which the commissioner has issued a certificate of authority under chapter 48.05 RCW.

(7) "Member" or "subscriber" means an insurer that has paid a rating organization for services under RCW 48.19.050, and includes service purchasers.

(8) "NAIC" means the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

(9) "Objection letter" means correspondence created in SERFF and sent by the commissioner to the filer that:

(a) Requests clarification, documentation or other information;

(b) Explains errors or omissions in the filing; or

(c) Disapproves the filing under RCW 48.19.100.

(10) "Property and casualty insurance" means these types of insurance:

(a) Property insurance defined in RCW 48.11.040;

(b) Marine and transportation insurance defined in RCW 48.11.050;

(c) Vehicle insurance defined in RCW 48.11.060;

(d) General casualty insurance defined in RCW 48.11.070; and

(e) Surety insurance defined in RCW 48.11.080.

(11) "Rate" or "rates" means all classification manuals, loss costs, rate or rule manuals, rating plans, rating schedules, minimum rates, class rates, and rating rules that insurers must file under RCW 48.19.040 and 48.19.043.

(12) "Rating organization" or "bureau" means an entity licensed under RCW 48.19.180 that files rates on behalf of its members, subscribers, or service purchasers.

(13) "SERFF" means the System for Electronic Rate and Form Filing. SERFF is a proprietary NAIC computer-based application that allows insurers and other entities to create and submit rate, rule and form filings electronically to the commissioner.

(14) "Type of insurance" means a specific type of insurance listed in the Uniform Property and Casualty Product Coding Matrix published by the NAIC and available at www.naic.org.