Car Insurance Excess Explained

An excess is an amount you may have to pay towards an eligible claim, depending on the circumstances and policy.

Overview

Policies may contain compulsory and voluntary excesses. A higher excess can affect the premium, but it also means a larger contribution if you make a claim.

What should you check?

• Read the policy definitions, limits and exclusions.
• Check the excess and any waiting or notification requirements.
• Understand what evidence may be required for a claim.
• Compare equivalent levels of cover rather than comparing price alone.

Why policy wording matters

Insurance is a contract and the precise terms determine when a claim can be accepted. Marketing summaries can be useful for orientation, but the policy documents should be treated as the authoritative source for the coverage you are considering.

Common questions