Can health insurance be bought through an EMI plan? 

Introduction 

In 2019, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) took a step to enhance the accessibility of health insurance for Indian citizens by requesting health insurance companies to offer policyholders the choice of paying their annual health insurance premiums through EMIs. This initiative empowers individuals to conveniently make regular payments towards their health insurance policy in quarterly, or half-yearly instalments. 

Health Insurance on EMI 

Health insurance policies in India offer EMI payment options that provide the convenience of paying the policy premium in equal instalments instead of a lump sum. The duration of the EMI payment period may vary depending on the policy, but it is typically set at 12 months. 

It is advisable to review the terms and conditions of the EMI payment plan carefully before enrolling to comprehend the associated costs. 

Advantages of buying a health Insurance policy through EMI

Enhances affordability 

Insurance becomes more accessible to urban dwellers and those residing in rural areas by offering the EMI option. Opting for insurance on an EMI basis proved to be more cost-effective and advantageous for them. This is because it eliminates the need to make a large upfront payment, allowing individuals to maintain a balanced monthly budget while ensuring financial security during challenging times. 

Enhanced coverage 

People are gradually gravitating towards high-sum insured plans, which can now be easily afforded with the availability of the EMI option. You no longer have to compromise on getting quality treatment, as the benefits can be received by paying the premium in installments.

Beneficial for senior citizens 

Insurance can be costly, especially as individuals age. Senior citizens are advised to consider obtaining personal medical insurance due to their increased susceptibility to illnesses and other primary health conditions. 

However, In such cases, opting for an EMI plan can be an advantageous and affordable alternative for those with limited monthly income. With pocket-friendly health insurance EMIs, senior citizens can access outstanding medical treatment without the added stress of financial management. 

Tax benefits 

Under Section 80D of the Indian Income Tax Act, 1961, individuals can get tax benefits by claiming a deduction of up to Rs 1 lakh for the premiums paid as EMIs towards their Medi claim policy. 

Comprehensive coverage 

Health problems can come unexpectedly and impose a financial strain at any time. However, you can now protect your family without fretting over the premium, as it can be conveniently paid quarterly or half yearly tailored to suit your convenience and budget. 

How do you choose the right health insurance policy on EMI? 

EMI 

Verify if the insurance company allows payment of premiums in EMIs and review the relevant terms and conditions associated with it. 

Policy Features 

Thoroughly review the policy features and benefits, which include claim settlement ratios, network hospitals, and more. 

During Claims

Premium Payment in Installments: lf the insured person has opted for Payment of Premium on an installment basis i.e. Half Yearly or Quarterly or as mentioned in the policy Schedule/Certificate of Insurance, the following conditions shall apply (notwithstanding any terms contrary elsewhere in the policy).

i. Grace Period of 7 days would be given to pay the installment premium due for the policy.

ii. During such grace period, coverage will not be available from the due date of installment premium till the date of receipt of premium by Company.

iii. The insured person will get the accrued continuity benefit in respect of the “Waiting Periods“, “Specific Waiting Periods” in the event of payment of premium within the stipulated grace Period.

iv. No interest will be charged lf the installment premium is not paid on due date.

v. In case of installment premium due not received within the grace period, the policy will get cancelled.

vi. In the event of a claim, all subsequent premium installments shall immediately become due and payable.

vii. The company has the right to recover and deduct all the pending installments from the claim amount due under the policy.

Conclusion 

The availability of monthly EMIs in a country like India, where health insurance affordability is a concern, is a significant advantage. This option empowers individuals to access comprehensive healthcare coverage that may have been previously unattainable for them.