Beware of your Insurance policy cover [Relative over 85]

[Letspack]

Be aware of your insurance cover in relation to loved ones back home.Last year the family flew to Hawaii however, we needed to come home after only one day as my mother was unexpectedly taken ill and given 48h to live. We had the additional package with Jetstar to allow flight changes but were still charged $1,100 each to return. When later the cost was questioned, we were told that allowance was made as no fees had been charged. Travel insurance was with Allianz who advised we were not covered because my mother had turned 85 the month before and in accordance with policy was therefore no longer considered to be my mother. I had never realised that there was an age limit covering family back home and it appears that some company's age limit is even lower so beware if you have elderly family members.

 

[moa999]

Sorry for your loss,

On the airfare, while change fees may have been waived, last minute airfares (or available fare buckets) are almost always more expensive.

Even if under the age limit there is also often a pre-existing conditions clause.

Like any form of insurance, read the PDS

 

[Pushka]

I’m sorry for your sad news.

Unfortunately the majority of policies don’t cover for parents aged over 85 even when not travelling and this is well stated. I knew that as soon as my mother turned 85. I actually understand why it isn’t covered. Our policies would be extremely expensive if aged parents were covered.

 

[Denali]

Something I've been very aware of as dad in law was 92 when he died a little over a year ago and mum in law is currently mid 80s, and she fell and broke her hip a few days before we were due to return from the UK last month.

Last policy we had was with Covermore which doesn't have a limit on aged family member death but read the T&Cs, pre existing ect as things always change.

 

[Deleted member]

My mum insists that she doesn’t want anyone upsetting their plans if she passed away like that. She reckons she can be kept on ice until we return. And besides, “it’s not like I have anything else to do” she says.

 

[Denali]

My mum in law is the same, we found out from sister in law in SF that MIL was in hospital. The family in Sydney was told not to tell us.