Some plans include two types of cashback: a no-claim bonus and a guaranteed cashback. The no-claim bonus rewards you for a claim-free year with roughly a month's premium back. The guaranteed cashback is a fixed monthly amount paid into your bank account to help cover medical bills. The two work together, and knowing how can help you get the most from your plan.
What is the no-claim bonus?
If you don't make any insurance claims between January and December, you'll get roughly one month's premium back. Stay claim-free for several years in a row and the amount grows.
You're eligible if you:
Are enrolled in a long-term plan
Stay claim-free for the full calendar year
Are insured for all 12 months
Are still covered when it's paid out (usually June the following year)
Should I submit my bills or protect my no-claim bonus?
Before submitting anything, check your coverage overview. Preventive examinations listed in your coverage details don't affect the bonus. For everything else, check whether your bills are likely to stay within your cashback balance.
You can also wait until the end of the year to compare: keep the no-claim bonus, or submit bills for reimbursement? Bills can be submitted up to 2 years after treatment, so there's no rush.
Good to know: Using your guaranteed cashback to cover bills doesn't count as making a claim. Your no-claim bonus is only at risk if your bills exceed your cashback balance and the remainder is paid out in cash.
What is the guaranteed cashback?
Every month, a fixed amount lands in your bank account. Think of it as prepaid credit for your medical bills. When you submit a claim, it comes out of that balance first. Anything left over at the end of the year is yours to keep.
It's not the same as a deductible. A deductible is the amount you pay before your coverage kicks in, and you don't get it back. Your guaranteed cashback is money you actually receive.
How much do I get?
Check your account for the exact amount. One thing to note: you only receive the guaranteed cashback if you pay by direct debit. Manual payments don't qualify.
Example
You're on a plan with €100 monthly cashback (€1,200 per year). In March, you get a €2,000 bill. The first €1,200 comes out of your cashback balance and the remaining €800 is covered by your plan. For the rest of the year, any further bills are fully covered.