What is the duration of a health insurance policy?
Wondering how long a health insurance policy lasts? We explain the duration, maturity and renewal process for health insurance, as well as the differences compared to other types of policies.
What is the duration of a health insurance policy?
As a general rule, a health insurance policy lasts for twelve months. In other words, the health insurance contract is established for a full year, usually coinciding with the calendar year, from 1 January to 31 December.
In most cases, the time a health insurance policy lasts is one year, and it is renewed automatically at the end of that period, unless the insured person or the insurer indicates otherwise.
When does a health insurance policy expire?
The usual maturity date of health insurance policies is 31 December. This means that if you wish to cancel your health insurance, you must notify your company at least one month in advance, i.e. before 30 November.
Automatic renewal of health insurance
If neither party indicates its intention to terminate the contract, the policy is renewed automatically for a new period of 12 months. This automatic renewal guarantees continuity of medical coverage without interruptions.
Is it the same in other types of insurance?
In other personal insurance policies, such as life, home, accident or funeral insurance, the duration of the policy may vary. In these cases, the duration is counted from the date on which the policy was taken out and does not necessarily coincide with the calendar year. Therefore, the maturity will be exactly one year after the registration date, and you must also request cancellation at least 30 days in advance.
Summary: what is the duration of a health insurance policy?
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The standard duration is 12 months.
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Generally, the policy expires on 31 December.
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It is renewed automatically, unless clearly indicated otherwise.
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Cancellation must be notified at least 30 days in advance.
The time a health insurance policy lasts may seem simple, but it is important to understand the time frames to avoid unwanted renewals or to be left without medical coverage.
Frequently asked questions about the duration of a health insurance policy
What is the duration of a health insurance policy?
The standard duration of a health insurance policy is 12 months. In most cases, the contract is established by calendar years, ending on 31 December.
When does a health insurance policy expire?
Generally, health insurance policies expire on 31 December of each year. If cancellation is not notified at least one month in advance, the policy is renewed automatically for another 12 months.
Can you cancel a health insurance policy before maturity?
Yes, you can request early cancellation, but it is most common to request it at least 30 days before maturity, to avoid automatic renewal. Some companies may apply penalties if requested late.
Is the time a health insurance policy lasts the same for all insurance policies?
No. Although a health insurance policy usually lasts for a calendar year, other insurance policies such as life, funeral, home or accident insurance have the exact anniversary of taking out the policy as their maturity date (12 months after it was registered).
How can I find out the exact maturity date of my health insurance policy?
You can see the maturity date in the specific terms and conditions of your contract, or in the insurer's customer support area. You can also contact your company's customer service directly.
What happens if I don't cancel my health insurance policy in time?
Is it compulsory to renew my health insurance every year?
Can I change company at the end of the year?
Why choose health insurance with DKV?
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More than 51,000 medical practitioners and 1,000 healthcare centres.
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Unlimited video consultation and 24h medical chat.
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Online procedures: authorisations, appointments, access to reports, etc.
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Different options for choosing your insurance according to the cover you need.
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Take out your insurance policy online.