
How No Claim Bonus (NCB) Works in Motor Insurance
No Claim Bonus, commonly known as NCB, is one of the most valuable benefits in motor insurance. It rewards careful driving and claim-free years by offering a discount on insurance premiums at the time of renewal.
Despite its importance, many vehicle owners misunderstand how NCB works and end up losing it due to avoidable mistakes.
What Is No Claim Bonus
NCB is a reward given by insurers when a policyholder does not make any claim during the policy period. It is offered as a percentage discount on the own-damage portion of the premium.
How NCB Accumulates
NCB increases with each consecutive claim-free year, up to a maximum limit. The longer you drive without claims, the higher the discount you earn.
Which Part of Premium Gets NCB
NCB applies only to:
· Own-damage premium
It does not apply to:
· Third-party premium
· Add-on covers
NCB Belongs to the Owner
NCB is linked to the policyholder, not the vehicle. If you sell your car and buy another one, you can transfer your accumulated NCB to the new vehicle.
NCB and Vehicle Sale
When selling a vehicle, you must obtain an NCB certificate from the insurer. Failure to do so may result in loss of accumulated benefits.
What Causes Loss of NCB
NCB can be lost due to:
· Making a claim
· Policy lapse
· Incorrect declaration
· Delayed renewal
Even a small claim can reset NCB to zero.
NCB Protection Add-On
NCB protection allows limited claims without losing accumulated NCB. This add-on is useful for new or high-value vehicles.
Small Claims vs NCB
In some cases, it is better to pay for minor repairs yourself to protect long-term NCB benefits.
NCB Verification
Insurers verify NCB declarations digitally. Incorrect declarations can lead to claim rejection or policy cancellation.
Platforms like Policynation help ensure accurate NCB transfer and declaration during renewals.
Final Thoughts
NCB is a powerful cost-saving feature in motor insurance. Protecting it through timely renewal and correct declaration can result in substantial savings over time.