Multiple Life Insurance Policies

When it comes to life insurance, there are a lot of things to consider. One important decision is how much coverage you need. You might think that the more coverage you have, the better, but that’s not always the case. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of multiple life insurance policies before making a decision.

Published November 2, 2023

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Life insurance companies in Australia generally do not have any restrictions when it comes to purchasing multiple life insurance policies. However, the amount of coverage must be justified and you have to clearly disclose all existing policy information when completing the subsequent application forms.

Can you have more than one income protection insurance policy?

Generally, income protection policies have built-in offset clauses, meaning you can generally only insure up to 70% of your salary. An offset clause in an insurance policy is typically used to prevent people from taking out two policies and claiming for more than 100% of their pre-disablement income. Insurers generally only provide you with benefits up to 70% of the salary you received prior to going on benefit so that you have the incentive to return to work.

Alternatively, you may have the option to purchase two Income Protection policies with complimentary waiting and benefit periods. For example, you might have an Income Protection policy in your super fund (salary continuance) that has a 30-day waiting period and a two-year benefit period complemented by another Income Protection policy, this one with a two-year wait period for which the benefit pays out until your 65th birthday.

Can you have multiple life insurance policies on one person?

Yes, you can have multiple life insurance policies on one person. An example of this is a top-up policy on a group policy or another policy with additional types of cover i.e. Trauma Cover. This is totally acceptable however be aware that income protection policies have built-in offset clauses, meaning only up to 70% of your salary can generally be insured.

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It’s important to note that each insurer has its own underwriting guidelines on the maximum level of cover they will offer for a policy, as well as the maximum sum insured of all policies held in one person’s life based on what their financial position can justify.

Justification is done by demonstrating to the underwriter (person reviewing your application) the person’s liabilities plus other financial obligations (i.e., kids) less your assets justify your collective sum insured of all the policies you currently have in place. The fact that you can afford the premiums doesn’t mean you can financially justify a higher level of coverage.

The insurance application will ask you if you have any existing policies on your life. It is vital that you answer this question honestly and accurately. If you do not disclose this information your application might be denied or worse your future claim might be declined.

Can you claim on multiple life insurance policies?

Yes, you can claim on multiple life insurance policies where you have complied with your Duty to take Reasonable Care Not to Make a Misrepresentation and have disclosed this in every subsequent life insurance application form that you have an existing policy and the fact you are maintaining the existing policy as well as taking out an additional policy.

When claiming on more than one policy, you’ll need to complete a claim form for each company separately, and they will generally ask you to list every insurer you’re claiming from. However, if you have complied with the above, you shouldn’t have any issues with claiming on multiple life insurance policies.

For further clarification regarding claiming on multiple life insurance policies, we recommend you review the particular product disclosure statement of the multiple policies you are considering holding at the same time. If you are still unsure about taking out a new or added policy, request a quote, and we’ll provide you with the guidance you need.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

  • What happens if you have more than one life insurance policy?

    Yes, as long as you aren’t over-insured. For example, a top up policy on a group policy in your super fund or another policy with additional types of cover i.e. Trauma Cover is acceptable. Be aware that income protection policies have built-in offset clauses, meaning you can generally only insure up to 70% of your salary.
  • Can you have multiple life insurance policies on one person?

    Yes, you can have multiple life insurance policies on one person. An example of this is a top up policy on a group policy or another policy with additional types of cover i.e. Trauma Cover. This is totally acceptable however be aware that income protection policies have built-in offset clauses, meaning only up to 70% of your salary can generally be insured.
  • Can you claim on more than one policy?

    Yes, you can claim on multiple life insurance policies where you have complied with your duty of disclosure and disclosed this in every subsequent life insurance application form that you have an existing policy and the fact you are maintaining the existing policy as well as taking out an additional policy.

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