What is a no-claim bonus?

A No-Claim Bonus (NCB) is a reward or discount given by an insurance company to a policyholder for not making any claims during the policy term. It is commonly offered in motor insurance, but some health insurance policies also provide similar benefits.


Simple Definition

NCB is a premium discount or bonus for a claim-free insurance policy year.


How NCB Works

  1. You buy an insurance policy (usually car or bike).
  2. If you do not make any claims during the policy period:
    • The insurer gives a discount on the next renewal premium.
  3. The NCB increases with each consecutive claim-free year, up to a maximum limit.
  4. If you make a claim, the NCB may reduce or reset, depending on the policy.

Typical NCB Rates (Motor Insurance)

Claim-Free YearsNCB (%) on Next Premium
1 year20%
2 years25%
3 years35%
4 years45%
5 years50% (maximum)

These rates may vary by insurer and country.


Key Points

  • NCB is not a cash benefit; it reduces the premium at renewal.
  • NCB is transferable if you switch insurers or sell your vehicle, provided proper procedures are followed.
  • Making a small claim may reduce the NCB, but some insurers allow “protected NCB” for one claim.
  • Only own damage claims affect NCB, not third-party claims.

Example

  • You have car insurance for ₹10,000.
  • After 1 claim-free year, NCB = 20% → your next renewal premium = ₹8,000.
  • If you make a claim during the year, the NCB may reset to 0%.

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