However, the forms need to be filled out and with just a little bit of focus and planning, the procedure can be simple and smooth. As a thumb rule, always remember that you need to fill out your forms yourself. Many people make the mistake of asking their agents to do the job. Keep your documents at hand and fill the form on your own. Once you submit the correct information along with the required documents, not only does the policy become hassle free, the claim procedure also becomes smooth.

What is a Term Plan?

To start off with, it's important to understand how a term plan differs from a regular insurance policy. A term plan is issued only for a specified number of years and you need to pay the premium for only as long as the policy is valid. Term plans are usually between 5-30 years. In other words, you are protected for a short term and if you die within that term, your family will get the benefits.

What are the documents required for term plans?

To avail a term plan policy, you will require the following documents along with a duly filled application form:

• Address proof
• Age proof
• Pay slips (last 3 months)
• Medical certificate
• PAN card
• Passport sized photograph
• To claim the benefits you need to provide:
• Copy of the death certificate
• FIR copy (in case of accidental death)
• Doctors' certificates, hospital documents to validate illness leading to death

Why is it important to submit the correct documents?

Term plan policies generally give you a wide protection and also cover accidental and overseas deaths. However, there are some common exclusions (death in countries listed as ‘unsafe', death due to natural calamities, etc). This is the reason why you must go through the clauses very carefully and know where exactly you stand. Term plans also ask for a detailed medical history. Whether you were a smoker 2 years back or underwent a bypass surgery last month, mention it clearly in the form and if possible provide the necessary documents for added validation. This may lead to a higher premium, but it will also make it easier to get a claim. If anything happens to you in the course of the term policy, the insurer cannot refute the claim, as you had already informed them of your exact medical conditions.

Since term plans are for a shorter period of time, it sometimes becomes difficult to get the claims when required. It becomes steep for the insurance company to pay a benefit of Rs 20 lac against a premium of just Rs 7000 (in case of death within the first year). As a result, the company tries its best to find reasons to withhold the claim. But if the nominees have all the correct documents to support their claim, the insurer will have no choice but to pay. So be extremely careful and honest while submitting your documents. The correct documents and information will prove to be beneficial all the way long.

Written By: Deepak Yohannan
The author is the CEO of MyInsuranceClub.com, an online insurance price & features comparison portal

For more articles by Deepak Yohannan, please visit MyInsuranceClub.com
You may write to the author at Deepak@myinsuranceclub.com