Frequently Asked Questions

1How much cover do I require?

This would vary from person to person as a number of factors need to be considered when calculating the correct level of cover. This could include your outstanding mortgage, personal debt levels, dependents, etc. It is important one seek advice regarding this as often clients have insufficient cover to meet their needs. It is also not uncommon for clients to have too much cover, or cover that’s is no longer relevant to their needs. Please give us a call, we would be more than happy to assist you.

2Who is entitled to receive the proceeds from my life insurance policy when I die?

The policy owner or the policy owner’s estate (if the policy was solely owned by the deceased)

3What if more than one person owns the policy?

The surviving owners are entitled to the proceeds and they will all need to sign the discharge form before the proceeds can be paid.

4Why do I need to send in my policy document in when I make a claim?

So the insurer can confirm who the current owner is and ensure that there have not been any changes of ownership.

5What does 'certified' copy mean?

A copy of the original document, sighted alongside the original and certified as a true copy by a Justice of the Peace, solicitor or anyone else who is able to certify documents.

6What is the difference between the life assured and policy owner?

Life assured: person who is insured.

Owner: person who gets proceeds of the claim.

7Why do I need to send in proof of age when it is on the death certificate?

Because the date of birth recorded on a death certificate is given verbally and no proof is required when the death certificate is completed.

8Who has access to personal information on my policy including medical information?

Generally, the insurance company and the life assured only. If the insurance company has received a Consent to Disclose form, completed by the life assured and giving consent to release information to another specific person, then they can release information to that person. There are certain exceptions under privacy legislation relating to the disclosure of personal information which can apply. Please note that this does not apply to death claims.

9Why is it important to read my policy document?

The policy document is the contract between the insurance company and the people who are insured. It is important to read the policy document so that you know what your rights and obligations are under the terms of your policy. It also sets out what the insurance company's rights and obligations.

It is also important to read your policy document so that you know what your policy covers you for and what you will receive in the event of a claim.

The policy document also details if there are any special terms on the policy such as exclusions.

You should read the document within the first 15 days so that you can make sure the information on the policy document is correct.

10Am I covered if I'm out of the country?

Life, Income Protection, Trauma and Total and Permanent Disablement cover usually cover you anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day. However, it is important to note health insurance will only cover you for treatment in New Zealand. It is highly recommended one take out travel insurance when one is travelling overseas.

11Why have my health Insurance rates gone up so much?

There are a number of factors that could impact on your health insurance rates. These could include medical inflation, a change in one’s age, higher than anticipated poor claims experience by your health insurance provider.

12What options do I have if my health insurance rates are getting too expensive?

Health insurance providers offer varying levels of excess option. The higher the excess chosen the less your health insurance rates. However, at a point this can only have a limited impact. It is best you contact us so we can discuss with you what your options are and whether there might be a better solution for you. It is however important to note that any pre-existing conditions might be excluded off your new policy should you decide to change.

13Why is it important to have a will?

A will is your chance to say what you want to happen to your estate after you have died. You can choose an executor and beneficiaries and decide how your assets are to be distributed