Life Insurance Australia :: Articles

Insurance Claims - The Acid Test for Insurance Policies

Insurance Claims - The Acid Test for Insurance Policies

Insurance Claims - The Acid Test for Insurance Policies
How well a company handles their processes and the customer experience at claim time is what truly determines the real worth of the insurance policies that are being sold.
The acid test of the quality of an insurance policy is when we are in the unfortunate position of having to claim on them. This is when the insurance company is put into a position where it is being asked to pay you money rather than the other way around.
How well a company handles this determines the real worth of their insurance policies that are being sold.

When all policies are equal

Time for a 2nd opinion on your Home & Contents Insurance?
Image for Time for a 2nd opinion on your Home & Contents  Insurance?We now offer a nation-wide panel of specialist Household Insurance brokers ready to help you lock down the best value home and contents insurance solution - tailored to your individual needs and guaranteed to save you money!
It doesn't matter what type of insurance policy is being dealt with. Insure your car, home, cat, or life it will always be a sure sign of value if the claim is processed and paid smoothly and on a timely basis so that you can recover from the insured loss and get on with your life with the least amount of fuss and bother.
Carefully check a company's insurance claims record before committing to buy a policy from them and avoid companies with a poor claims history.

Know the rules

Make sure you take the time to understand what your insurance policy is going to cover before you are in a position to make a claim. This will help you avoid difficulties later on and especially disappointment and complications.
Make sure you know what you have to do in the event of a claim as delays in reporting a claim may invalidate the insurance cover.
More than this, some policies such as car insurance have very strict conditions that attach to whether you should admit liability before the insurance company has had time to assess a claim. Make sure you educate yourself on what to do in such circumstances.

No favourites

It also pays to realise that just because you pay a hefty premium, this does not mean that you are going to get good cover or a good claims handling experience when the time comes.
Many insurance companies are reviewed not only on the basis of premiums but the features and benefits that they offer in terms of helping you through the administration of a claim.
Good companies will have a structured and helpful customer claim process which provides good communication on a timely basis.
Bad companies will usually try to hide such information from you so do not be diverted by slick sales talk when researching policies.

Cheap <> best

The cheapest premium doesn't mean the best deal. Customer care does come with a price tag and very often a cheap deal does mean that when you claim, you are the one that has to do the running around in order to get the claim approved, settled and paid.
It can make the difference between weeks or months of inconvenience when you need the money the most or a very easy, hassle free experience that let's you recover the loss and move on with your life.

Financial considerations

A claim is also an acid test of an insurance company's financial position.
If you are insuring an asset such as your life or your home, the sums involved can often be very substantial.
You need to bear in mind that a claim has to be paid from the financial resources that are available to the insurance company. If a company was to receive the odd claim here and there, this may not cause any serious concerns.
What if an insurance company was to suddenly receive a number of such claims at the same time, say because of a flood? Ask yourself if the insurance company can pay out all of those claims and if there is some doubt consider insuring somewhere else.

Taking responsibility

Insurance claims take place at a time of some distress or disturbance in our lives.
A burglary of our home, a car accident, a health concern or a pet that needs veterinary treatment; life can be distressing enough when these things happen so we need the claims process to proceed smoothly and effectively to get us back on track.
You can take responsibility for making sure this takes place by firstly, making sure you have proper coverage and secondly, by making sure you understand what the conditions are and what you need to do.
A good insurer will help make things clear in both cases and will not hesitate to answer your questions if you are unsure. These are things to look for in a company when you are considering insurance in the first instance.

Record everything

When you are claiming on a policy, do everything you can to document what has happened.
Photographs are very helpful in many situations as are comparisons and keeping results and valuations for your insured items. The process of setting up insurance will often help you get these things organised to begin with, and never hesitate to ask your insurance company for help as after all, if you can make their job easier during the claims process, they will keep their own costs to a minimum and everyone wins.
Up-to-Date Records & Paper Trial - It is essential that you have proper systems and a paper trial to support all your financial objectives.
Having up-to-date records and knowing where to locate paperwork quickly will save you a fortune in the long run. Not only will you be able to quickly pick up any mistakes in billing, but you will have a handle on cash flow and therefore eliminate payment defaults or additional interest costs that directly impact on your bottom line.

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: 61


Life Insurance Articles

Understanding the Role of Life Insurance in Financial Security Understanding the Role of Life Insurance in Financial Security
Life insurance can seem complex at first, but understanding the basics can help demystify this important financial product. At its core, life insurance is a contract between you and an insurer, where the insurer promises to pay a designated beneficiary a sum of money upon your passing, in exchange for premium payments. - read more
How to Prepare for a Hassle-Free Life Insurance Claim How to Prepare for a Hassle-Free Life Insurance Claim
Being prepared when it comes to life insurance claims can make a world of difference. Proper preparation helps you prevent delays and denials, ensuring that your loved ones receive the financial support promised by your policy without unnecessary hold-ups. By paying attention to the details, you can streamline the claims process, giving you and your family peace of mind during what is already a stressful time. - read more
How Life Insurance Provides Financial Security for Your Loved Ones How Life Insurance Provides Financial Security for Your Loved Ones
Life insurance is a crucial part of any comprehensive financial plan, providing peace of mind that your loved ones will be financially secure in the event of your passing. - read more
Understanding Life Insurance: How to Get the Best Online Quotes Understanding Life Insurance: How to Get the Best Online Quotes
The digital age has fundamentally transformed how we approach almost every aspect of our lives, including the way we shop for life insurance in Australia. Gone are the days when one had to schedule meetings with insurance agents or flip through pamphlets to understand life insurance policies. Today, obtaining life insurance quotes online has become the norm, offering a hassle-free and incredibly accessible platform for individuals to safeguard their financial future. - read more
Life Insurance Comparison: Key Questions to Ask Your Insurer Life Insurance Comparison: Key Questions to Ask Your Insurer
Life insurance is a crucial consideration for middle-aged to older Australians. It provides financial security for your loved ones in the unfortunate event of your death. Understanding the various options available is vital to making an informed decision. - read more
Life Events That Should Trigger a Life Insurance Review for Aussie Families Life Events That Should Trigger a Life Insurance Review for Aussie Families
Life insurance is a cornerstone of financial planning for Aussie families, offering protection and peace of mind. But what happens when the bustling flow of life brings changes? This is where a life insurance review comes into play. A life insurance review is a thorough analysis of your existing policy to ensure it aligns with your current life circumstances and financial goals. - read more
Understanding Life Insurance: How to Get the Best Online Quotes Understanding Life Insurance: How to Get the Best Online Quotes
The digital age has fundamentally transformed how we approach almost every aspect of our lives, including the way we shop for life insurance in Australia. Gone are the days when one had to schedule meetings with insurance agents or flip through pamphlets to understand life insurance policies. Today, obtaining life insurance quotes online has become the norm, offering a hassle-free and incredibly accessible platform for individuals to safeguard their financial future. - read more
Maximize Your Safety Net: Top Tips for Optimizing Income Protection Benefits Maximize Your Safety Net: Top Tips for Optimizing Income Protection Benefits
Welcome to a pivotal guide dedicated to empowering you with the essentials of income protection insurance in Australia. As we navigate through times of uncertainty, safeguarding your financial wellbeing becomes not just a priority, but a necessity. Income protection insurance stands as one of the key pillars of financial security, ensuring a steady flow of income during periods when you're unable to work due to illness or injury. - read more
Life Insurance Comparison: Key Questions to Ask Your Insurer Life Insurance Comparison: Key Questions to Ask Your Insurer
Life insurance is a crucial consideration for middle-aged to older Australians. It provides financial security for your loved ones in the unfortunate event of your death. Understanding the various options available is vital to making an informed decision. - read more
The Savvy Consumer’s Guide to Purchasing Life Insurance in Australia The Savvy Consumer’s Guide to Purchasing Life Insurance in Australia
As the landscape of finance and personal security evolves in Australia, the importance of being insured has never been more prominent. In a world of changing family dynamics, economic pressures, and higher living costs, life insurance stands as a bastion of support ensuring the well-being of loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances. - read more

Insurance News

Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims Landmark NSW Decision: Dog Walking Costs Covered in Car Crash Injury Claims
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

In a groundbreaking decision by the NSW Personal Injury Commission, an insurer has been directed to cover the costs of dog walking services for a car crash victim. The commission ruled that these services classify as domestic assistance under the state’s Motor Accident Injuries Act. This case could pave the way for broader interpretations of 'attendant care services' for claimants. - read more
Extreme Weather Drives $1.8 Billion in First Half Losses for Australian Insurers Extreme Weather Drives $1.8 Billion in First Half Losses for Australian Insurers
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Extreme weather events in Australia have resulted in significant financial impacts for insurers, tallying $1.83 billion in losses during the first half of the year. This comes as insurance companies gear up for further claims linked to ongoing severe weather in New South Wales. - read more
ClearView Names New Underwriting Head Amidst Strategic Changes ClearView Names New Underwriting Head Amidst Strategic Changes
30 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

ASX-listed life insurer ClearView has announced the appointment of Peter Tilocca as Head of Underwriting, coinciding with key updates to its underwriting standards and definitions. Tilocca's extensive two-decade career in Australian underwriting includes leadership roles at Zurich, Noble Oak, One Path Life, and RGA Australia. His new role with ClearView commenced on 30 June. - read more
Ombudsman Supports Theft Claimant in Home Business Coverage Dispute Ombudsman Supports Theft Claimant in Home Business Coverage Dispute
30 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

A recent case has seen a policyholder triumph over her insurer after the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) ruled in her favour following a contentious dispute regarding home business operations. The controversy arose when the woman's theft claim was denied by her insurance provider, IAG, over allegations of fraudulent misrepresentation about the use of her rental property. - read more
AFCA Upholds Insurance Fraud Ruling Over Disputed Possum Accident AFCA Upholds Insurance Fraud Ruling Over Disputed Possum Accident
26 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

A motorist's claim that he crashed into a tree to avoid a possum has been denied by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), which supported the insurer's fraud decision. The incident involved the driver crashing his Jeep—insured for over $20,000—on a dimly-lit street, purportedly avoiding the rain-soaked motorway en route to the store. - read more

Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Life Cover Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Term Life Insurance:
A life insurance that provides a cover for a specific period of time - usually one to five years or until the insured reaches age 65 or 70.