Getting help with Travel Insurance

Getting help with Travel Insurance

Generally, firms selling insurance and those providing insurance cover (underwriting the risk) have to be regulated by us, or be the agent of a regulated firm. There are some exceptions, for example travel agents that sell travel insurance do not usually need to be regulated by us.
Regulated firms and their agents are put on our Register and have to meet certain standards. Always make sure that the firm you use is on our Register before handing over your money. If they aren't regulated by us and things go wrong, you won't have access to complaints and compensation procedures. To find out if a firm is on the FSA Register, see check the FSA site.
Your friends or family may recommend an insurance broker or insurance company or you can find one along your high street. Alternatively there are organisations that can help you – see Useful links. But remember, always check that the firm you use is on the FSA Register.

Buying without advice

You don't have to get advice before you take out an insurance policy, and UK firms that sell insurance without advice still have to follow our rules. But it is up to you to decide whether the policy is suitable for you. You may have less grounds for complaint if the product turns out to be unsuitable.

What information will you get?

When you contact an insurance broker you will get two important pieces of information – sometimes in the form of keyfacts documents:

• details of the service the broker is giving you – see Step 1; and

• a summary of the insurance policy being offered to you – see Step 2.

Getting the Key facts

Step 1

When you contact an insurance provider, they must give you details of the service they offer. It may be in a keyfacts about our service document, but doesn't have to be. They will tell you:

• whether they're offering you advice or just information about the product;

• whose insurance policies they offer – it may be from one company or many; and

• how much you'll have to pay for the service.
Use this document, or information to shop around to get the service you want at the price you're happy with.

Step 2

Once you've discussed what you need and answered all the questions about yourself and what you want to insure, the intermediary, insurance company or the firm selling you the insurance will give you a keyfacts about the policy. This sets out the essential facts. Ask questions if you don't understand anything as misunderstandings could lead to the insurance company refusing to pay out when you claim.
The keyfacts policy summary will set out:
• what the insurance policy actually covers;

• what it doesn't cover;

• any limits or restrictions; and

• other important features you need to know before you make up your mind.

Make sure you get this and that you read and understand it. Ask the provider or insurance company to explain anything you don't understand.
Use this document to shop around and compare like with like. Another policy may be cheaper but does it offer the same cover?

Important tips for travel Insurance

1. Check that the firm is on FSA Register.

2. Use the keyfacts about the policy to compare other policies.

3. Answer the questions as best you can – it will help avoid misunderstandings.

4. Ask questions if something is not clear.

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