Imagine making a claim against your health insurance only to find out that it’s no longer active. That’s what can happen if you miss your annual renewal date. It is probably the most important date you have to keep in mind when it comes to your health insurance policy. Let's take a look at what it is, why it matters and what you can do as the date approaches.
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As the name suggests, the annual renewal date in health insurance is the anniversary of the day your health insurance policy was issued to you. It’s the fixed date each year when your policy must be renewed to remain active and for you to continue getting the benefits of your policy.
Think of it like your insurance’s birthday, once a year on this day you need to give it attention so it can keep working for you and your loved ones.
By renewing your health plan on time you can ensure that there’s no break in your health insurance because if you miss it your policy could lapse or expire, leaving you uninsured.
It is the date when you pay your yearly or next cycle’s premium. Some insurance companies allow you to switch to different payment modes such as monthly, quarterly, or annually during the renewal date.
It is also a great time to think about whether the policy still meets your needs. If you're going through major life changes like marriage, childbirth, or change of job or career, then this is the best time to make a decision regarding any adjustments in your policy.
You can add riders like maternity cover, critical illness, or top-up plans during renewal.
In some cases, insurance companies might revise terms, premiums, or offer new benefits. During this period you get a chance to accept or reject the terms and move to another insurer.
It is regulated by the IRDAI and they ensure that all policyholders are informed in advance by their insurers about the annual renewal date.
Let’s say, Sneha bought a health insurance policy on 1st August 2024. Her annual renewal date is now 1st August every year.
In July 2025, she got a reminder from her insurer. She then pays the premium before the renewal date, which keeps her policy active with no break in coverage or loss of benefits.
But if she forgot her annual renewal date, her insurer offers a 30-day grace period. If she paid by 31st August, the policy benefits would not be affected. But if she does not renew by then, her policy would lapse, and she would have to submit a fresh application, undergo medical tests, and possibly even pay higher premiums.
Use calendar apps on your phone or subscribe to SMS or email alerts from your health insurance provider.
Take a look at details in your policy like your sum insured and add dependents or riders if you feel like it's needed.
You can switch insurers at the time of renewal and continue to keep certain benefits under IRDAI portability rules.
Make sure your personal and contact details are up-to-date and error-free.
You can ask your insurance provider if they offer any loyalty discounts or early-bird discounts at the time of renewal.
Health insurance isn’t something we think about every day until we need it. But there’s one date you shouldn’t ignore and that's your annual renewal date. It’s the date each year when your policy is due for renewal, but it’s more than just a payment deadline. It’s your chance to keep your coverage going strong and make any updates that fit your current life. So, always remember to set your reminders.
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Reviewed by Dr. Harshita Dahiya 
Acko Technology & Services Private Limited
#36/5, Hustlehub One East, Somasandrapalya, 27th Main Rd, Sector 2, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102
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