What factor does NOT directly affect claim cost?

The age of applicants' dependents does not directly affect claim costs in the same way that the other factors do. When assessing claim costs, insurance companies typically focus on variables that are related to the insured individual’s risk profile, which can significantly impact the likelihood of a claim being made or the cost of that claim.

Age, for instance, plays a critical role because younger individuals may engage in riskier behavior, while older individuals may have health concerns that lead to increased claims. Similarly, occupation can influence claim costs because some jobs come with higher risks of injury or health issues, which can lead to more frequent or costly claims. Sex is another factor, as statistical analysis shows different risk profiles associated with different genders, affecting claims related to health and safety.

In contrast, the age of an applicant's dependents is a less direct factor. While it may have some influence in terms of the overall family coverage and potential medical needs, it does not have an immediate or significant impact on the claim amounts or the frequency of claims compared to the other variables mentioned.