J was first exposed to life insurance by her friends in university. While she didn’t give further thought to the idea then, the seeds of protection has been planted in her mind. Upon starting her first job after graduation, J learnt from her older colleagues the importance of getting adequate coverage and came to a conclusion that she needs life insurance – for the benefit of both her family and herself. After doing extensive online research, J has some questions that we helped to clarify:

1. I get it that I need life insurance but how much coverage do I need?

This depends on your financial obligations and existing resources to meet these needs. Most importantly, how much can you or are you willing to spare for protection? Check out the following calculation tools to help you get started:

Life Insurance Association Singapore Protection Gap Calculator
CPF Board Insurance Estimator
Life Insurance Calculator

2. What should I look out for when purchasing life insurance?

Two things – best value and reliability. Value is perceived differently by individual but some things that potential policy holders should look out for would be the fine prints and numbers. Cheapest does not mean the best value at times.

For reliability, look at the credit ratings of insurers. A positive credit rating signifies the ability of the insurer to do a payout to your/your dependents in the unfortunate event of death.

#TiqOurWord Etiqa has been rated ‘A’ (strong) for Insurer Financial Strength by Fitch Ratings for two consecutive years in 2019 and 2020. Learn more here.

3. Should I get term life or whole life insurance?

The first step to getting life insurance lies in identifying your needs. Next, ask yourself a simple question – are these needs short-term or long-term? This will help you to determine how long you will need the coverage, and give you a clearer picture on which type of insurance is more suitable for you.

Ever wondered why do most people buy life insurance? Read more here.

4. What’s the difference between purchasing life insurance online or over the counter?

The purpose of DPI is to give autonomy to consumers to buy according to their needs and budget. For digital savvy consumers who prefer the D-I-Y process, purchasing online allows you to research and make your own decisions.

If you have any doubts, there are always information channels such as live chat, emails, phone or over-the-counter services to help answer your questions.

5. Is there an easier way to compare the different insurers? Does cheaper means better?

DPI products in Singapore are regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and include similar features. Beyond pricing, consumers are advised to do their due diligence checks on their choice insurer.

Check out compareFIRST for easy comparison.

6. Why do I need to complete such a long form?

Would you be a guarantor for someone that you are unsure of? The role of an insurer is akin to a guarantor for you. Prior to sharing your risks, it is important to understand the potential risk level. This will also help to facilitate the claim process in the unfortunate event of death.

7. Do I really have to read all the fine print?

Small things do matter, and the information is there for a reason. 

8. Do I need to get critical illnesses (CI) coverage if I already have health insurance?

It depends on what you are already covered for. Critical illness coverage is important because 1) medical expenses is so high and increasing in Singapore 2) Critical illnesses statistics are high and increasing too!

Did you know ~17 Singaporeans die of cardiovascular disease and ~39 people are diagnosed with cancer on a daily basis? These sobering statistics by the Singapore Heart Foundation and Singapore Cancer Society respectively are sobering.

If you are planning to get CI coverage, note the policy terms on conditions and stages of critical illnesses. Also, you should note that it may be difficult to buy a CI plan if you are diagnosed with a critical illness.

9. How does the claim process works?

You can find out more here.

10. What happens when my policy term ends?

This depends on whether you have purchased a term life insurance or whole life insurance. In the event of the former, you may have the option to renew your policy (premium will be subjected to your age and sum assured). For whole life insurance, you will be covered for a lifetime. Still considering? Read the 9 tips to get started with life insurance.

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Information is accurate as of 22 July 2020. This policy is underwritten by Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd. (Company Reg. No. 201331905K). Protected up to specified limits by SDIC. As buying a life insurance policy is a long-term commitment, an early termination of the policy usually involves high costs and the surrender value, if any, that is payable to you may be zero or less than the total premiums paid. You should seek advice from a financial adviser before deciding to purchase the policy. If you choose not to seek advice, you should consider if the policy is suitable for you. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

Tiq by Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd.

A digital insurance channel that embraces changes to provide simple and convenient protection, Tiq’s mission is to make insurance transparent and accessible, inspiring you today to be prepared for life’s surprises and inevitabilities, while empowering you to “Live Unlimited” and take control of your tomorrow.

With a shared vision to change the paradigm of insurance and reshape customer experience, Etiqa created the strong foundation for Tiq. Because life never stops changing, Etiqa never stops progressing. A licensed life and general insurance company registered in the Republic of Singapore and regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, Etiqa is governed by the Insurance Act and has been providing insurance solutions since 1961. It is 69% owned by Maybank, Southeast Asia’s fourth largest banking group, with more than 22 million customers in 20 countries; and 31% owned by Ageas, an international insurance group with 33 million customers across 16 countries.

Discover the full range of Tiq online insurance plans here.