Our Claim Philosophy
With the experience gained in the income protection industry since 1995, we acknowledge the fact that one of the best ways that FMI can support our clients is by paying claims. We are extremely proud of a philosophy that provides certainty to both our clients and Financial Advisers, which we recognise to be one of the most important tests of any insurance company.
FMI value the fact that we are in existence to provide an essential service to business owners, who rely on our products to save their businesses and help their families when the unpredictable happens. Our philosophy is based on the fundamental principle of meeting client’s expectations with the least amount of inconvenience throughout the claiming process.
We understand that, when in claim, there are certain factors which may contribute toward a smooth and efficient process. This includes quick turnaround times, speedy settlement of claims and fair assessments. A transparent process coupled with the availability of our claims assessors enable our clients to be part of the entire claims process. These factors, plus pro-active involvement from FMI, help to ensure that our clients’ expectations are managed upfront so that no hidden surprises occur atdecision time.
FMI’s philosophy is simple – we pay claims. When our clients take out a policy with FMI they are in fact expecting a future claim payout in the event of them being unable to work and sustain their business. These individuals’ livelihood depend on certainty in our claiming process, which our years of experience have enabled us to provide.
Accident / Illness Claims
In the event of needing to lodge a claim with FMI due to an accident or illness, please note the process outlined below. Your understanding of this procedure is crucial in ensuring that FMI provides you with a high level of service during your claiming process.
How to Lodge a Claim
For all benefits, FMI may be notified of a claim by the Life Insured, their Financial Adviser or a 3rd party.FMI will require a mandate from the Life Insured to release information to a 3rd party in order to protect the client’s right to confidentiality.
To notify FMI of a potential claim, please contact FMI’s Client Care team on 0860 10 11 19, email clientcare@fmi.co.za or fax (031) 502 7006.
In order for FMI to log a claim, we require the following information:
- Nature of illness / accident or cause of death
- Date of diagnosis / accident / death
- Time period booked off / Incapacitation period
- Name, phone number and fax number of treating specialist
With the above information, FMI are able to send out a pre-populated claim form to the client and the treating specialist which greatly simplifies the completion of the form. Additionally FMI are able to begin the claims verification process upfront to ensure all expectations are met from the beginning of the claims process.
The death of a loved one can be a painful and traumatic time for the family of the deceased. This is exasperated by having to deal with funeral costs and life insurance claims. We here at FMI understand that it is times like this when a compassionate and empathetic voice coupled with a smooth, easy claims process is essential in easing the burden.
In order to simplify the claims process, a few simple steps have been identified. Please note that it is critical that the correct documentation and time standards are met, this will ensure a quick and easy claims procedure.
FMI must be notified immediately upon the death of a Principal Member insured or the death of his/her dependants (where applicable). A Claim form and Proof of Death together with all the necessary supporting documents substantiating the claim must be submitted to FMI within 6 (six) months from the date of death. Failure to do so will result in a loss of the benefit.
It is FMI’s policy to settle claims within 48 hours, we thus request the Policyholder’s cooperation in forwarding the correct and relevant documents, timorously to prevent any unnecessary delays in the settlement of the claim.
How to Lodge a Death Claim
1. In order to lodge a Death Claim, FMI will require the following:
Notify FMI’s Client Care Centre on 086 010 1119 of these details:
- Policy number
- Deceased’s full name
- Deceased’s Date of Birth
- Date of Death
- Cause of Death (Natural or Unnatural)
2. The Call Centre will then notify the Death Claim Department of the new claim. The claim form along with a list of the required supporting documentation is sent to the contact person who lodged the death claim.
3. The onus is on the Principal Member insured, or his/her family to submit all the required supporting documentation within 6 (six) months from the date of death.
4. Claims will only be considered upon receipt of all the necessary documents substantiating the claim and being satisfactory to FMI’s requirements.
5. Premiums must have been paid up to date.
6. Once all the required supporting documentation has been received, and providing the premiums are paid up, a decision will be made within 48 hours and the claimant will then be notified of this decision.
FMI reserves the right to request further documentation or information as it may deem necessary to accurately assess a claim.
Contact Us to Lodge a Death Claim: clientcare@fmi.co.za
Death Claim Documents Required
Funeral Cover
Funeral Cover Information Document
Life Cover
Life Cover Information Document
Accidental Death Cover
Nomination of beneficiary and dependents
It is imperative that you nominate a beneficiary/ies on your FMI policy to ensure peace of mind that your loved ones are taken care of in the event of your death.
It is equally important to notify FMI of your immediate dependents in order to assist us in an efficient claims process.
Please complete the relevant Nomination of Beneficiary forms:
Individual Policy
Please use the Individual Nomination of Beneficiary Forms in the event of a Business Person Elect, CASA, IEASA, FPI Main Member or Funeral stand alone policy
Life, Accidental Death and Death Income Nomination of Beneficiary Form
Funeral Nomination of Beneficiary Form
Group Policy
Please use the Group Nomination of Beneficiary Forms in the event of a Vision, FPI Staff or Masthead Adviser’s Employee Plan policy.
Life or Accidental Death Nomination of Beneficiary Form