Health Insurance Documents you should keep

When it comes to health insurance, documents and slips can seem like unnecessary clutter in your drawer or on your desk. Most people intend to file their papers, but sometimes the system falls by the wayside. Many times, we end up with piles and piles of documents.

Yes, these days most things are digital, but there is still the need to print, sign and keep copies of certain transactions. So, when it comes to organising your files, what should you keep a copy of?

Contract

Always keep a copy of your signed agreement in your email, drive or in a folder in your home. In case of a discrepancy, you will have your contract to refer to. It is also great to have at hand if you want to double check benefits, without having to call the insurance provider and check.

Medical bills

In the event that your insurance company requests proof that you visited a doctor or specialist, keep all bills for the year in a special folder.

These may also come in handy in tax season. Certain medical expenses, depending on circumstances and your medical scheme cover, are tax deductible.

Receipts

It is always advisable to keep receipt of payment. There are certain instances where payments aren’t recorded, or do not reflect on the system. For this, keep all slips given to you if you paid in cash, and use proper referencing when doing any electronic transfers.

All information for covered parties

Regardless of the type of insurance, be sure to hold onto copies of birth certificates, death certificates, identity documents, passports, payslips and other legal documents of everyone who is covered by the policy. You never know when any of these may come in handy.

Make electronic copies of all your documents by scanning them or taking photos. Nowadays, most smart phones can download scanner apps to assist with this.

How long should you keep your health insurance records?

Keep health insurance records until current treatments are completed, the health insurance company has paid for them and you’re confident that the matter has been resolved, Pocket Sense advises. Getting rid of records prematurely could leave you unable to prove your case if you need to make a query or the insurance company refuses to pay your medical bills.

The site continues that if you’re not confident that the treatments and payments are completely closed cases, keep the documents longer.