As used in this part, “gross premiums” means maximum gross premiums as provided in the policy contracts, new and renewal, including policy or membership fees, whether paid in part or in whole by cash, automatic premium loans, dividends applied in any manner whatsoever, and without deduction or exclusion of dividends in any manner; but excluding premiums returned on cancelled policies, or on account of reduction in rates, or reductions in the amount insured or experience rating refunds on life insurance policies and disability insurance policies.