Can you get credit card travel insurance if you’re over 65?
There's nothing stopping you getting complimentary travel insurance through your credit card just because you've turned 65. But once you turn 79 or 80 you'll need a seniors travel insurance policy.
Just because you're over 65 doesn't mean you're not covered by a credit card's complimentary travel insurance policy.
If you have a pre-existing condition, read the insurance policy booklet to check if it affects your eligibility.
If you're aged 79 or older you won't be covered by most credit card travel insurance policies. You'll need to get a standalone seniors travel insurance policy.
What is the age limit for credit card complimentary travel insurance?
How can I get complimentary credit card travel insurance as an older Australian?
If you're under 79 and have no pre-existing conditions. You should have no trouble qualifying for your credit card's travel insurance policy. It's still a good idea to read the insurance booklet carefully. You can find it in the fine print on your card provider's website.
If you are older than 79 or 80 (depending on the policy). Some policies consider 79 or 80 to be cut-off age for a complimentary travel insurance policy. This means you can't get covered and need to take out a standalone travel insurance policy. You can tailor the policy based on your age and health needs. You may have to pay a premium too.
If you have pre-existing conditions. Check the insurance booklet for your credit card's travel insurance. Look for a section that mentions "pre-existing medical conditions." With most policies you may be covered generally if something goes wrong, but not covered for any costs related to issues that result from your pre-existing condition. You can also apply for an assessment to see whether your pre-existing condition is covered.
How to make sure your insurance will cover you
Check the insurance policy. Credit card companies have complimentary insurance product disclosure statements (PDS) that give you details about age limits, exceptions and other requirements.
Contact the insurance provider. If you're still unsure, call the insurance provider and explain your situation.
Be prepared to have a medical examination. If you have pre-existing conditions or you're over the maximum age listed for standard cover, you may need to have a medical examination with one of the insurance provider’s approved medical professionals.
Pay any premium that’s required. An additional premium may apply if you’re over a certain age or if you have pre-existing medical conditions that you want covered by the insurance.
Keep details of the policy handy when you travel. If you’ve got limited or upgraded coverage due to your age or pre-existing conditions, make sure you keep details of the insurance policy and official communication handy.
Is complimentary credit card insurance worth it if you’re over the age limit for standard cover?
Travel insurance through your credit card is free. And even if you have to pay an extra premium it will likely be cheaper than a standalone policy.
But a standalone policy designed for older Australians is you're only option if you're older than 79 or 80. And depending on your needs a more tailored, separate policy could give you much better cover.
A free policy through your credit card isn't much good if you're not covered.
Our expert says: You have to read the fine print
"Unless you work at Finder, reading the details of your credit card's travel insurance policy is the last thing you want to do. But if you're older than 65 and have pre-existing conditions you should. In fact, anyone using their card's travel insurance should at least know what they're covered for and how to activate the cover (it's not always automatic). "
Complimentary travel insurance has the potential to save you hundreds of dollars on buying a policy, but age requirements and exclusions can limit the value of this credit card extra for seniors, and for anyone with pre-existing conditions.
By comparing these requirements and the cost of the card with standalone travel insurance policies, you can find a credit card and travel cover that works for you.
Finder survey: Which credit card insurance features have Australians used?
Response
I've never used credit card insurance
61.81%
Travel insurance
29.47%
Purchase insurance
9.34%
Rental car insurance
9.07%
Extended warranty insurance
7.28%
Transit accident insurance
4.13%
Other
0.72%
Source: Finder survey by Pure Profile of 1113 Australians, December 2023
Frequently Asked Questions
If you're over-65 and looking for travel insurance policies, you might want to look at providers like Allianz, Cover-More and InsureandGo. They offer comprehensive coverage for older travellers. However, you should always shop around and compare what each policy offers to make sure it offers what's right for you.
Due to the higher risk of medical issues and claims, travel insurance can cost more for travellers over 65. While this cost is not necessarily an issue with travel insurance through your credit card there can be maximum age limits, usually from 70 to 80 years old.
Yes, travel insurance is available for those over 75, but options may be limited and premiums could be higher. Some credit cards have maximum age restrictions on their complimentary travel insurance, so be sure to check that you would be covered. Outside of credit card travel insurance, there are a number of travel insurance providers which have policies for over-75s.
The oldest age for travel insurance varies by provider, but it is possible to get insurance up to the age of 100. It's important to be aware that there may be limitations on coverage and higher premiums for more senior travellers.
Richard Whitten is Finder’s Senior Money Editor, with over eight years of experience in home loans, property, credit cards and personal finance. His insights appear in top media outlets like Yahoo Finance, Money Magazine, and the Herald Sun, and he frequently offers expert commentary on television and radio, helping Australians navigate mortgages and property ownership. Richard started his career in education and textbook publishing in South Korea. He holds multiple industry certifications, including a Certificate IV in Mortgage Broking (RG 206) and Tier 1 and Tier 2 certifications (RG 146), as well as a Bachelor of Education from the University of Sydney and a Graduate Certificate in Communications from Deakin University.
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Amy is an experienced journalist with over 16 years of experience, contributing to major publications like Money Magazine, The Sydney Morning Herald, and ABC News Australia. Specialising in personal finance, she frequently appeared in media outlets and on radio. Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Drama from Griffith University and earned RG146 certifications in Tier 1 Generic Knowledge and Tier 2 General Advice Deposit Products, ensuring her expertise is grounded in current financial regulations. Amy was Finder's Senior Writer for Credit Cards from 2016 to 2024.
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I am 82 years and my wife is 72 years, can I have my credit card travel insurance endorsed to cover me with payment of an extra premium charge, so we are both covered for International travel.
Finder
AmyMay 15, 2023Finder
Hi George,
Unfortunately, most comprehensive credit card travel insurance policies only cover people up to a maximum of 75-80 years of age (depending on the policy). If you have a credit card with travel insurance, you can call the insurance provider to see if there is an option to pay for additional cover. You can also compare travel insurance policies for people aged over 75, which could provide cover for both you and your wife. I hope that helps.
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I am 82 years and my wife is 72 years, can I have my credit card travel insurance endorsed to cover me with payment of an extra premium charge, so we are both covered for International travel.
Hi George,
Unfortunately, most comprehensive credit card travel insurance policies only cover people up to a maximum of 75-80 years of age (depending on the policy). If you have a credit card with travel insurance, you can call the insurance provider to see if there is an option to pay for additional cover. You can also compare travel insurance policies for people aged over 75, which could provide cover for both you and your wife. I hope that helps.