You have been paying ₹15,000 every year for health insurance.
Thankfully, you didn't get sick. But you feel a pinch: "I paid so much money for nothing."
Wrong.
Most comprehensive health insurance policies (like Star Health, HDFC Ergo, Niva Bupa) come with a hidden perk: A Free Annual Health Check-up Coupon.
If you don't use it, it expires. It’s like throwing a ₹3,000 gift voucher in the trash every year.
Disclaimer: Benefits vary by plan. Some offer it every year, while others offer it only after a "Block of 2 Claim-Free Years." Check your policy schedule.
Don't Waste Your 'Free Health Check-up' Benefit
1. What Is Included?
It’s not just a blood pressure check. Depending on your Sum Insured, the package usually includes:
- Basic Tests: CBC (Blood Count), Fasting Sugar, Urine Routine.
- Vital Organs: Kidney Function Test (KFT), Liver Function Test (LFT), Lipid Profile (Cholesterol), ECG.
- Value: These tests would cost you ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 at a private lab. Your insurer pays for it.
2. The Biggest Myth: "Will I Lose My NCB?"
This is why people are scared to use it.
"If I claim this check-up, will my No Claim Bonus (NCB) reset to zero?"
The Answer is NO.
IRDAI regulations and policy terms clarify that Preventive Health Check-ups do NOT count as a "Claim."
You get the free check-up AND you keep your 50% NCB bonus. It’s a win-win.
3. Cashless vs. Reimbursement (The 2025 Trend)
How do you avail it?
🏥 Option A: Cashless (Highly Recommended)
Most insurers now mandate this. Use their App to book an appointment at a Network Diagnostic Center. You walk in, give your sample, and walk out paying ₹0.
📄 Option B: Reimbursement (Becoming Rare)
Some older policies allow you to pay first and claim later. However, many insurers are phasing this out to prevent fake bills. Always try for Cashless first.
4. Bonus: Save Tax (Section 80D)
Even if your insurance doesn't cover the full cost, or if you pay for extra tests for your parents, the Income Tax Act supports you.
Section 80D allows a deduction of up to ₹5,000 for Preventive Health Check-ups.
- Important: This ₹5,000 is included within the overall limit (₹25k/₹50k), it is NOT an extra limit.
- Pro Tip: Unlike premiums which must be paid digitally, this ₹5,000 can be paid in CASH and still be claimed for tax deduction.
5. Why You Should Do It NOW
Apart from the financial benefit, it saves your life.
Lifestyle diseases like Diabetes and Hypertension are silent killers. Catching high cholesterol early (for free!) prevents a heart attack claim later.
Insurers want you to do this because a healthy you costs them less money.
Don't Let It Expire
Your policy renewal date is coming up. Did you use your voucher for this year?
If not, book it this weekend. It’s your money returning to you in the form of health insights.
Action Plan:
- Open your Insurance App (e.g., HDFC Ergo App, Star Health App).
- Search for "Health Check-up" or "Wellness Benefit" tab.
- Book a cashless appointment. If the app is confusing, call the toll-free number and ask: "Where is my nearest network lab for a free check-up?"
Helpful Resources:
ClearTax: Section 80D Preventive Checkup Deduction
ICICI Lombard: Benefits of Free Health Check-up
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