An insurer may take into account whether the applicant is male or female when determining?

The insurer is allowed to consider the applicant's gender when determining rates. This is because statistical data and research have shown that certain demographic factors, including gender, can influence risk assessments. For example, studies may indicate that one gender may have a different likelihood of filing a claim, or may experience more severe accidents than the other. Therefore, when calculating premiums, insurers may utilize this information to differentiate rates between male and female applicants.

The other options, while related to insurance policies, do not typically allow for differentiation based on gender. Coverage limits are generally set based on risk assessments and regulations rather than the applicant's gender. Claims history is based on past behavior rather than demographic characteristics. Similarly, deductibles are determined by the specifics of the policy and insurance coverage rather than the applicant's gender. Thus, rates are the specific aspect of insurance pricing that can legally incorporate gender as a factor.