Key takeaways
- Just because you're over 65 doesn't mean you're not covered by a credit card's complimentary travel insurance policy.
- If you have a pre-existing condition read the insurance policy booklet to check if it affects your eligibility.
- If you're aged 79 or older you won't be covered by most credit card travel insurance policies. You'll need to get a standalone seniors travel insurance policy.
What is the age limit for credit card complimentary travel insurance?
With all the complimentary travel insurance policies we compared, age cut-offs don't affect until you turn 79 or 80.
Compare credit card complimentary travel insurance age limits
Credit card company | Insurance provider | Maximum age for standard coverage |
---|---|---|
Chubb | 79 | |
Allianz | 80 | |
Cover-More | 79 | |
Allianz | 80 | |
Allianz | 80 | |
Cover-More | 79 | |
Allianz | Not outlined in the policy document | |
Allianz | 80 | |
Allianz | 80 | |
Allianz | 80 | |
Allianz | 80 |
How can I get complimentary credit card travel insurance as an older Australian?
- If you're under 79 and have no pre-existing conditions. You should have no trouble qualifying for your credit card's travel insurance policy. It's still a good idea to read the insurance booklet carefully. You can find it in the fine print on your card provider's website.
- If you are older than 79 or 80 (depending on the policy). Some policies consider 79 or 80 to be cut-off age for a complimentary travel insurance policy. This means you can't get covered and need to take out a standalone travel insurance policy. You can tailor the policy based on your age and health needs. You may have to pay a premium too.
- If you have pre-existing conditions. Check the insurance booklet for your credit card's travel insurance. Look for a section that mentions "pre-existing medical conditions." With most policies you may be covered generally if something goes wrong, but not covered for any costs related to issues that result from your pre-existing condition. You can also apply for an assessment to see whether your pre-existing condition is covered.
How to make sure your insurance will cover you
- Check the insurance policy. Credit card companies have complimentary insurance product disclosure statements (PDS) that give you details about age limits, exceptions and other requirements.
- Contact the insurance provider. If you're still unsure, call the insurance provider and explain your situation.
- Be prepared to have a medical examination. If you have pre-existing conditions or you're over the maximum age listed for standard cover, you may need to have a medical examination with one of the insurance provider’s approved medical professionals.
- Pay any premium that’s required. An additional premium may apply if you’re over a certain age or if you have pre-existing medical conditions that you want covered by the insurance.
- Keep details of the policy handy when you travel. If you’ve got limited or upgraded coverage due to your age or pre-existing conditions, make sure you keep details of the insurance policy and official communication handy.
Is complimentary credit card insurance worth it if you’re over the age limit for standard cover?
Travel insurance through your credit card is free. And even if you have to pay an extra premium it will likely be cheaper than a standalone policy.
But a standalone policy designed for older Australians is you're only option if you're older than 79 or 80. And depending on your needs a more tailored, separate policy could give you much better cover.
A free policy through your credit card isn't much good if you're not covered.
"Unless you work at Finder, reading the details of your credit card's travel insurance policy is the last thing you want to do. But if you're older than 65 and have pre-existing conditions you should. In fact, anyone using their card's travel insurance should at least know what they're covered for and how to activate the cover (it's not always automatic). "
Finder's verdict
Complimentary travel insurance has the potential to save you hundreds of dollars on buying a policy, but age requirements and exclusions can limit the value of this credit card extra for seniors, and for anyone with pre-existing conditions.
By comparing these requirements and the cost of the card with standalone travel insurance policies, you can find a credit card and travel cover that works for you.
Finder survey: Which credit card insurance features have Australians used?
Response | |
---|---|
I've never used credit card insurance | 61.81% |
Travel insurance | 29.47% |
Purchase insurance | 9.34% |
Rental car insurance | 9.07% |
Extended warranty insurance | 7.28% |
Transit accident insurance | 4.13% |
Other | 0.72% |
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I am 82 years and my wife is 72 years, can I have my credit card travel insurance endorsed to cover me with payment of an extra premium charge, so we are both covered for International travel.
Hi George,
Unfortunately, most comprehensive credit card travel insurance policies only cover people up to a maximum of 75-80 years of age (depending on the policy). If you have a credit card with travel insurance, you can call the insurance provider to see if there is an option to pay for additional cover. You can also compare travel insurance policies for people aged over 75, which could provide cover for both you and your wife. I hope that helps.