Securing a term insurance policy to protect your loved ones in case of unexpected events is an important step towards financial stability. Term insurance is a popular and cost-effective life insurance option that provides financial protection to your family. When applying for term insurance, it is essential to be ready with the required documents to ensure a smooth application process. Don't worry, this article will shed light on the documents required for term insurance so that you can confidently begin your journey towards a secure future.
Personal Identification Documents
The initial step in applying for term insurance is providing personal identification documents. These documents establish your identity and help the insurance company verify your background. The following documents are commonly required:
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Identity Proof:
- Passport,
- Driver's license,
- Aadhaar card (in India)
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Address Proof:
- Utility bills,
- Bank statements,
- Rental agreements,
- Voter ID cards
Age and Date of Birth Verification
Age plays a crucial role in determining the premium amount for term insurance. To establish your age and date of birth, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Birth Certificate
- Passport
Income and Employment Proof
Term insurance coverage is based on an individual's income and earning capacity. Providing proof of income and employment helps the insurance company assess your financial eligibility. The following documents may be required:
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Income Proof
- Salary slips
- bank statements
- Form 16
- Audited financial statements
- Income tax returns
- Profit and loss statements
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Employment Proof
- Employment verification letters
- Appointment letters
- Employee ID cards
- Business registration certificates or licenses
Medical History and Health Documents
As term insurance involves assessing the applicant's health risk, medical history and health-related documents are crucial. The following documents are typically required:
- Medical Examination Reports
- Medical Records
- Family Medical History
- Lifestyle Habits
Documents Required to Buy a Term Insurance
Below are the documents required to buy a term insurance plan:
Identity proof |
Aadhaar Card |
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Passport |
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PAN Card |
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Voter ID Card |
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Form 60 |
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Address proof |
Electricity and Water bills for the last 2 months |
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Pension Payment Orders for Retirees |
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Property Tax Receipt |
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Municipal Tax Receipt |
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Accommodation letter from the state or central government, PSU, or any financial institution |
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Medical Proof |
Past and recent medical records |
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Income Proof |
Salaried Employees |
- Last 3 months' salary slips - Form 16 - Income Tax Return (ITR) for 2 years |
Self-Employed Individuals |
- Income Tax return (ITR) for 2 years - Audited balance sheet - Profit & loss account of 2 years - Form 26 AS |
Documents Required for Term Insurance Claim Process
The nominees for the policy will require the following documents during the term insurance claim process:
Death Reason |
Documents Required |
The death happened due to a medical condition |
Duly filled claim form |
Original policy document |
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Death certificate of the policyholder |
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Nominee’s ID proof |
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Medical records |
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Doctor or physician statement |
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In case of accidental death claims |
Original copy of Police Inquest Report |
Original copy of FIR |
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Other required documents for the term insurance claim process include ID Proof, Original death certificate, cancelled cheque, etc. |
Importance of Documents While Buying Term Insurance
When purchasing term insurance, the importance of providing accurate and relevant documents cannot be underestimated. These documents prove the beneficiary's identity, financial capacity, health status and information. Below, we have mentioned some of the points that will show you the importance of documents while buying term insurance:
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Establishing Identity and Background Verification
A primary reason for submitting documents when purchasing term insurance is to establish identity and conduct background verification. Insurance companies must verify the authenticity of an applicant's identity to prevent fraud and ensure that the policyholder is eligible for coverage. Plus, it also builds trust with the insurance provider.
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Financial Eligibility Assessment
Documents related to income and employment play an important role in determining the financial eligibility of individuals seeking term insurance. These documents give insurers information about the applicant's financial stability and ability to pay premiums. Insurance companies can evaluate an applicant's income level, stability, and ability to meet policy obligations.
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Assessing Health Risk and Premium Determination
Documents related to medical history, medical test reports and lifestyle habits are necessary to assess the health risk of the applicant and determine appropriate premium rates. Insurance companies analyze these documents to evaluate pre-existing medical conditions and lifestyle factors that may affect mortality.
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Beneficiary Designation and Policy Payout
The documents are important in designating beneficiaries and ensuring a smooth policy payout process. By providing accurate and updated beneficiary information, applicants ensure that policy benefits are directed to the intended recipients in the event of their death. This prevents delays, disputes and confusion during the claim settlement process.
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Legal Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
Insurance is regulated, and insurance companies must follow legal and regulatory requirements. Insurers ensure compliance with these rules by collecting and verifying the necessary documents. This helps prevent fraudulent activities, maintain transparency and protect the interests of policyholders and insurance companies.
How to Buy a Term Insurance Plan
You can buy a term insurance plan from the insurance company’s official website and “RenewBuy.com”. Below are both the buying processes of term insurance plans:
Buy from the official website of the insurance company
- Visit the insurance company’s official website and click on the “Term Insurance” tab.
- Select the desired plan.
- Fill in all the required information, such as name, mobile number, annual income, occupation, etc.
- Click on the “Buy Now” button.
- Make payment.
- The insurance company will send the policy documents to your email address.
Buy from “RenewBuy.com”
- Visit the official website of RenewBuy.
- Click on the “Life Insurance” tab.
- Fill out the form that shows on the next page.
- Compare term insurance plans and select your desired plan.
- Click on the “Buy Now” button
- A pop-up will show you the plan details and the additional rider information.
- Click on the “Proceed to Buy” button.
- Make an online payment, and the policy documents will be sent to your registered email address.
Conclusion
Applying for term insurance requires submitting the necessary documents supporting your application. These documents tell your identity, age, income, health condition and beneficiary details. Preparing the required documents simplifies the application process, ensuring a seamless experience. Before applying for term insurance, you should check with the specific insurance company about their document requirements, as they may vary slightly.
Documents Required for Term Insurance FAQs
- Do the required documents differ for different term insurance companies?
Ans. Yes, specific document requirements may vary slightly between companies. Always refer to your chosen insurer's website or ask their representative for an accurate list.
- How many copies of each document should I submit?
Ans. Usually, one photocopy of each document is sufficient. However, checking with your insurer for their specific needs is best.
- Can I submit my documents online?
Ans. Several insurance companies now offer online application platforms where you can upload your documents electronically. This is a convenient and fast option, so check if your chosen insurer provides it.
- What happens if I miss a document or it's not in the required format?
Ans. Inform your insurance agent immediately. Depending on the missing document, they might allow you to submit it later or suggest alternatives. Missing crucial documents, however, may delay your application processing.
- Are there any alternative options for proof of identity if I don't have a PAN Card or Aadhaar Card?
Ans. Yes, you can use your Voter ID, passport, or driver's license as alternative identity proof.
- What if I don't have recent utility bills for proof of address?
Ans. Bank statements, rental agreements, or even your passport with your current address can be accepted as proof of address.
- Do I need salary slips as income proof even if I'm self-employed?
Ans. If you're self-employed, you should submit business documents, income tax returns, or bank statements showcasing your income flow.
- What medical tests might be required?
Ans. The type of medical tests needed depends on your age, health history, and chosen policy amount. Common tests include blood tests, urine tests, and chest X-rays.