In surplus lines transactions, a higher premium tax indicates what?

In surplus lines transactions, a higher premium tax typically indicates a higher risk associated with the insurance coverage being provided. Surplus lines insurance is used for risks that cannot be adequately covered by standard insurance markets. Since these risks are often considered non-standard or more complex, they generally involve greater uncertainty and potential for loss. As a result, state regulators impose a higher premium tax on these types of policies to reflect the increased risk to both the insurer and the policyholder.

While the other options could be relevant in different contexts, they do not directly explain the relationship between premium tax and risk. Additional coverage or increased administrative costs may arise in surplus lines situations, but they are not inherently linked to the premium tax structure. Similarly, the potential for increased claims could occur in any type of insurance, not specifically tied to premium tax levels. Thus, the emphasis on higher risk is what makes it the most appropriate choice.