Deductible in Insurance

A deductible refers to the amount a policyholder is required to pay out-of-pocket before the insurance company begins covering the remaining expenses of a claim and is a fundamental term in the insurance world. This concept is prevalent across various types of insurance, such as health, motor, and home insurance. When discussing insurance matters in India, it is essential to consider the unique guidelines, regulations, and market practices that apply to the Indian context.

To understand this better, think of a deductible as a way of sharing the financial responsibility between you and the insurance company. It is a predetermined amount that you agree to pay when you file a claim. The insurance company then covers the rest of the expenses up to the policy limit. Deductibles are designed to discourage small or frivolous claims, which can help keep overall insurance premiums more affordable for everyone.

Types of Deductibles

Deductibles in Indian insurance policies can be of two types:

• Compulsory Deductible:
  A compulsory deductible is a fixed amount set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). This amount must be paid by the policyholder in the event of a claim, regardless of the policy type or coverage. For instance, in motor insurance, the compulsory deductible for private cars with an engine capacity below 1500cc is INR 1,000, while for those with an engine capacity above 1500cc, it is INR 2,000.


• Voluntary Deductible:
  A voluntary deductible is an optional amount that the policyholder chooses to pay in addition to the compulsory deductible. Opting for a higher voluntary deductible can lower the premium amount, as it signifies the policyholder's willingness to bear a more significant portion of the claim expenses. However, keep in mind that choosing a high voluntary deductible means you will have to pay more out-of-pocket in case of a claim, so weigh the benefits and risks carefully.

How to pick the right deductible?

There are several factors to consider when deciding on the right deductible for your insurance policy:

• Affordability:
  Choose a deductible that you can comfortably afford to pay in the event of a claim. Remember that a high deductible can result in lower premiums, but it also means a higher out-of-pocket expense when you need to file a claim.


• Risk Tolerance:
  Evaluate your risk tolerance before deciding on a deductible. If you are more risk-averse, you might prefer a lower deductible, even if it means paying a slightly higher premium. Conversely, if you are willing to assume more risk and can afford a higher out-of-pocket cost, you may choose a higher deductible to save on premiums.


• Claim History:
  Consider your claim history when selecting a deductible. If you have rarely filed claims in the past, you might opt for a higher deductible to benefit from lower premiums. However, if you have a history of frequent claims, a lower deductible might be a better choice to reduce your overall expenses.

Understanding deductibles is crucial when purchasing an insurance policy in India. A deductible represents the policyholder's share of financial responsibility in a claim and helps strike a balance between affordable premiums and manageable out-of-pocket expenses. By considering factors such as affordability, risk tolerance, and claim history, you can choose a deductible that suits your needs and budget, providing you with the best possible insurance coverage.