When you take out an insurance policy, one term you’ll often come across is the waiting period. While it might sound like industry jargon, it’s an important part of how insurance works.

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What Are Waiting Periods in Insurance?

Also known as a qualifying period, this is the amount of time you need to wait after purchasing an insurance policy before you’re eligible to make certain types of claims. It’s essentially a buffer zone designed to prevent claims for incidents that may have occurred before the cover started.

Waiting periods can vary depending on the type of insurance and the provider. For example, a pet insurance policy might have a waiting period for illness cover but offer immediate cover for accidental injuries.

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Why Does Insurance Have Waiting Periods?

Insurance waiting periods exist to protect both the insurer and the wider pool of policyholders. Without them, people could take out a policy only after something has gone wrong, such as getting life cover after having received a serious diagnosis.

These periods ensure fairness and allow insurers to keep premiums reasonable for everyone.

 

What Is the Waiting Period for Claims? 

The length depends on:

  • The type of insurance you have
  • The type of event or condition covered
  • The specific policy terms.

Here are a few typical examples:

  • Pet Insurance: Often 30 days for illness, sometimes none for accidents (as with dotsure.co.za). Waiting periods for hereditary conditions may be much longer.
  • Health Insurance: Varies for different treatments. Dental or maternity benefits may have longer waiting periods.
  • Life Insurance: Often 12–24 months for claims related to pre-existing conditions or suicide.

Always check the fine print when signing up for cover to understand what’s included and what’s excluded during the waiting period.

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Can You Get Insurance Without a Waiting Period?

If you’re switching providers and have maintained uninterrupted cover, some waiting periods might be waived or reduced, but this isn’t guaranteed. Look for insurers who are transparent about their waiting periods and make it easy to understand what’s covered and when.

At dotsure.co.za, we’re committed to treating customers fairly and keeping things simple. That’s why we offer a fast and easy claim process, backed by clear policy terms and compassionate support when you need it most.