Does Health Insurance Premium Increase with Age?
Yes — your health insurance premium increases as you grow older. The reason is simple: with age, health risks rise, medical check-ups become mandatory, and insurers adjust premiums accordingly.
Why Does Health Insurance Premium Increase With Age?
1. Higher Health Risks
As we age, our immunity weakens and the chances of lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart issues rise.
This means insurers face a higher chance of paying claims — so the premiums increase.
2. Medical Inflation
Medical treatments, hospital stays, and medicine prices increase every year.
This rise in healthcare costs directly affects your health insurance premium.
3. Mandatory Medical Checkups
Most health insurers ask for medical tests after a certain age (usually 45–50).
These tests identify pre-existing conditions, which can further impact your premium.
4. Shorter Coverage Period
Older buyers often get limited policy terms and lower renewal ages (many up to 80 years only).
Starting young helps you secure longer and continuous coverage.
Comparison: Maximum Entry Age of Major Health Insurers (2025)
| Insurer | Maximum Entry Age (Years) | Special Note |
|---|---|---|
| Oriental Insurance | No Limit | Best for senior citizens |
| New India Assurance | 80 | Suitable for older applicants |
| Reliance General Insurance | 80 | Easy renewal options |
| Star Health & Allied Insurance | 80 | Popular for family plans |
| IFFCO Tokio General Insurance | 70 | Includes pre-existing disease coverage after waiting period |
| Cholamandalam General Insurance | 65* | Affordable for mid-age buyers |
| ICICI Lombard | 60 | Offers wellness benefits |
| Tata AIG | 60 | Wide hospital network |
| Apollo DKV | 60 | Comprehensive plans |
| National Insurance | 59 | Basic cover for individuals |
| Bajaj Allianz | 55 | Fast claim settlement |
| HDFC Ergo | 55 | Cashless network hospitals |
| Universal Sompo | 55 | Economical plans |
| Royal Sundaram | 50* | Focus on younger buyers |
| United India Insurance | 50 | Limited senior citizen options |
Note: Entry ages may vary slightly depending on the specific plan.
Real Customer Experiences
Ravi (Age 32, Pune):
“I bought my first health plan at 30. My premium was around ₹4,500. Now I’m 35, and it’s just ₹5,500 — not a big jump. Starting early really helped me lock in lower rates.”
Sujata (Age 54, Chennai):
“When I applied at 52, my insurer asked for medical tests and the premium was nearly double what my husband pays. I wish I had taken the policy earlier.”
Amit (Age 41, Delhi):
“I renewed my policy this year. The premium increased slightly, but the claim process was smooth when I was hospitalized last year. It’s worth paying for peace of mind.”
Sample Health Insurance Premium by Age Group (Approx.)
| Age Group (Years) | Average Annual Premium (₹) |
|---|---|
| 0–17 | 2,500 |
| 17–25 | 3,500 |
| 25–30 | 4,500 |
| 30–35 | 5,500 |
| 35–40 | 6,500 |
| 40–45 | 7,500 |
| 50+ | 9,500+ |
Tip: Premiums may differ depending on health condition, coverage amount, and insurer.
Tax Benefits of Buying Health Insurance Early
- Under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act, you can claim tax deductions on your premium payments.
- Premiums paid for yourself, your spouse, parents, or children qualify.
- Maximum deduction:
- ₹25,000 (Self & Family)
- ₹50,000 (For Senior Citizen Parents)
Expert Tips to Save on Health Insurance Premium
- Buy Early – Lock in lower rates while you’re young and healthy.
- Choose Higher Coverage – Go for the maximum cover you can afford (₹10–₹25 lakh minimum).
- Avoid Policy Lapses – Renew on time to avoid losing benefits.
- Compare Insurers – Check claim settlement ratios and hospital networks.
- Use Top-up Plans – If affordability is an issue, start with a ₹5 lakh plan and add a top-up later.
FAQs
1. Does health insurance premium increase every year?
Not always every year, but it usually increases when you move into a higher age bracket (for example, from 30–35 to 36–40).
2. Can I get health insurance after 60?
Yes. Several insurers like Oriental, New India Assurance, and Star Health offer entry even after 60.
3. Will I need medical tests if I apply after 45?
Yes. Most insurers require basic health checkups after age 45 to 50.
4. Is it worth paying higher premiums at an older age?
Absolutely. Even if the premium is higher, it protects you from massive hospital bills later.
5. What’s the best age to buy health insurance?
Ideally before 40 — you’ll pay less, skip medical tests, and get long-term benefits.
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Final Takeaway
- Health insurance premiums do increase with age, but early investment ensures lifetime coverage and peace of mind.
- Don’t wait for medical problems to start — start your policy today.
- Remember: The earlier you buy, the cheaper and stronger your health protection will be.
