In response to the Coronavirus pandemic, HIF has introduced a new policy suspension option for Members who are struggling financially during this challenging time.
Members who can’t afford to pay their premiums due to the financial consequences resulting from COVID-19 can suspend their policy for between two and 12 months, and they won’t have to re-serve waiting periods once the membership is reinstated.
Benefits for any services or treatments received during the suspension period, however, will not be payable. For Members with Extras cover, this also includes ambulance services (unless you live in Queensland or Tasmania, where ambulance transport is Government subsidised).
Should their financial circumstances improve at a later point in time, Members can give a minimum of 2 months’ notice to reinstate their policy during the agreed suspension period.
This special COVID-19 membership suspension arrangement won’t be impacted by any previous suspension period that may have been taken.
Members experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 related unemployment or under-employment are urged to contact us on 1300 13 40 60 discuss how we can assist them.
Please note: Effective 1 July 2022 the option to suspend your policy due to COVID-19 is no longer available. For alternative options relating to Financial Hardship or Unemployment Suspension, please visit hif.com.au/suspend.