What to do when several long-term care covers exist, and how to check each policy without assuming in advance what will be paid.
How many covers can exist in parallel
A family may discover a policy through the health fund alongside an older private policy. The mere existence of two policies does not automatically mean two payments will be approved, or determine what those payments would be.
Each policy is assessed against its own definition, type of benefit and terms.
A fixed sum and an indemnity are not the same thing
Under fixed-sum cover, entitlement is assessed against an amount set in the policy. Under indemnity cover, payment may be tied to proven expenditure and to limits that have been set. The precise classification appears in the documents.
How to organise the check
Create a row for each policy and record the insurer, the policy number, the period of cover, the definition, the type of payment and the form. Tell each body the truth and answer the disclosure requirements on the form.
- Do not assume that one cover cancels out another
- Do not send an identical form without checking each body's requirements
- Keep every decision and every payment
- Check with the official source in case of doubt
The public care benefit is a further route
The National Insurance long-term care benefit is not an insurance policy. There may be a factual connection between the documents, but each route is assessed under separate rules.
Frequently asked questions
Can you claim on two long-term care policies at once?
The existence of two policies does not guarantee two payments. Each policy is assessed against its own definition, type of benefit and terms. A claim must be filed with each body separately and according to its instructions.
What is the difference between a fixed-sum and an indemnity policy where there is multiple cover?
Under fixed-sum cover, entitlement is assessed against an amount set in the policy. Under indemnity cover, payment may be tied to proven expenditure and to limits. The distinction affects what has to be proved.
Do we have to tell one company about cover with another?
Yes, where the form requires it. Answer every disclosure question truthfully and do not omit information, even if it appears to have no effect.
Does the National Insurance care benefit count as duplicate insurance?
No. The care benefit is a statutory right and not an insurance policy. It is assessed on a separate route under National Insurance rules.
Official sources for further checking
This is general information and does not replace personal medical, legal or insurance advice. Eligibility is determined by the documents and rules that apply to each case.
