Common questions

• What is life cover?
• Is this policy for me?
• When does the plan term pay out?
• What about tax?
• Are there any extra charges?
• Can I apply online?
• Can I change my mind?
• How can I contact NatWest?
• How can I make a complaint?
• What about Money Laundering Regulations?
• What are the terms and conditions for life cover?
• What laws apply to Life Cover?
• How do I find out about compensation?

What is life cover?

Life cover is a protection policy that pays out a guaranteed cash lump sum on the death of the life assured.

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Is this policy for me?

Not sure if this policy is suitable for your needs and looking for some advice? Call us on 0800 068 2161 (textphone 0845 900 5960)

Lines are open: Mon to Thu 8am - 8pm, Fri 8am - 6pm and Sat 9am - 5pm

Maximum call charge from a BT line is 4p (0845) per minute. Calls from other networks may vary. Calls may be recorded.

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When does the plan term pay out?

If you die during the plan, we pay out a guaranteed cash lump sum.

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What about tax?

Currently the cash sum paid on death is free of income and capital gains tax.

However, the cash sum from this policy will form part of your Estate. Essentially, your Estate is everything you own. This means, even if you are married or, following the introduction of the Civil Partnership Act, in a civil partnership, there is no guarantee the payout will go to the loved ones you want to benefit unless you make a will.

Also, there may be Inheritance Tax to pay. You may be able to avoid this if you write your policy in 'trust' - a 'trust' allows you to say who you would like to benefit from the policy when you die.

Tax rules may change.

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Are there any extra charges?

No. Everything is included in your premiums.

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Can I apply online?

Yes, as long as everyone to be covered meets the following criteria:

(Don't worry if you don't meet one or more of the criteria - we may still be able to offer you life cover. Simply call for a quote on 0800 068 2161 - textphone 0845 900 5960).

• Is a UK resident
• Aged between 18 and 54 on the day of application
• Is not currently seeing their GP or any other doctor for any regular check-ups or under the care of any hospital or clinic as an outpatient
• Is not intending to seek or awaiting any medical advice or treatment from any doctor, hospital or clinic, or awaiting any tests or investigations
• Has not in the last 10 years had or received medical advice for any of the following illnesses, or been referred for tests or investigations for the following conditions:
  Raised blood pressure, raised cholesterol, heart attack, chest pain or any other heart condition. Stroke, epilepsy or any disorder affecting the brain, any form of cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease or alcohol problem, multiple sclerosis, any numbness or loss of feeling, blurred or double vision, anxiety, depression or any mental or nervous illness lasting for more than three months or requiring treatment with anti-depressants.
• Has not ever tested positive for HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis B or C and is not awaiting the results of such a test
• Is not employed in any of the following occupations:
  Offshore fishing. Offshore oil or gas production. Commercial diving. HM forces (including reservists or TA) or any occupation involving the use of explosives or working at heights over 15 metres (50 feet).
• Has not had a life policy application postponed, declined, withdrawn or issued on special terms

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Can I change my mind?

Yes. Change your mind within 30 days from the date your plan starts, and we'll return any premiums you've paid.

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How can I contact NatWest?

If you have any questions at any time, you can phone us on 0800 068 2161 (textphone 0845 900 5960).

Lines are open: Mon to Thu 8am - 8pm, Fri 8am - 6pm and Sat 9am - 5pm

Maximum call charge from a BT line is 4p (0845) per minute. Calls from other networks may vary. Calls may be recorded.

Or you can write to us at National Westminster Life Assurance Limited, Customer Services, PO Box 886, Bristol BS99 5LJ.

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How can I complain?

If you wish to register a complaint, please contact us:

In writing: write to National Westminster Life Assurance Limited, Customer Services, PO Box 886, Bristol BS99 5LJ.

By phone: Telephone us on 0800 056 0846 (textphone 0845 900 5960). Lines are open Monday to Thursday 8am-8pm, Friday 8am-6pm and Saturdays 9am-5pm, excluding Bank Holidays. Calls may be recorded.

If you cannot settle your complaint with us, you may be entitled to refer it to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

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What about Money Laundering Regulations?

Under these regulations there is, in certain circumstances, a legal requirement to prove the identity of people who wish to take out an insurance policy. NatWest may contact you to let you know what evidence you need to show. If you do not provide this information when asked, it could delay the processing of your policy.

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What are the terms and conditions for Life Cover?

Unless otherwise stated, your illustration assumes that we accept your proposal at our normal rates.

We won't be liable to pay any benefit until:

• you've completed an application form
• we've issued acceptance of your application, and
• we've received your first premium

Read the full terms and conditions

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What laws apply to Life Cover?

The laws of England will apply to this plan. All information in the Life Cover web pages is based on our understanding of current law and HM Revenue & Customs practice.

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