Hospitalization Daily Allowance

Hospitalization Daily Allowance (also called Hospital Cash or Daily Hospital Cash) is a useful add-on benefit in many international travel policies. It provides a fixed daily cash payment during hospitalization abroad due to accident or sickness, covering incidental expenses like meals, local transport, or attendant costs (not covered under main medical benefits). It is not standard in all plans (rare in domestic policies).

Coverage: Fixed daily amount paid per complete 24-hour hospitalization day (irrespective of actual bills).

Typical Limits: USD 25–200 per day . Max 5–30 days per trip/policy. Higher (e.g., double) for ICU in some plans.

Key Conditions:

Hospitalization ≥24–48 consecutive hours (varies; often >2 days for allowance start).

Due to covered accident/sickness (including COVID-19 in many plans).

Incident during policy period abroad.

Main medical cover must be claimed/approved first (supplementary benefit).

Notify insurer via 24/7 helpline immediately.

Claim Process:

1. Get hospitalized and inform insurer/assistance provider.

2. Obtain hospital discharge summary/certificate confirming dates.

3. Submit: Claim form, policy copy, passport/visa copies, hospital docs (admission/discharge).

4. No bills needed for this benefit (fixed payout).

5. File within 30 days of discharge; quick settlement (7–30 days).

Common Exclusions:

Daycare/outpatient treatment.

Pre-existing conditions (unless declared/covered).

Self-inflicted injury, war, or intentional acts.

Hospitalization in India.

Advice: Great for extra financial cushion abroad (e.g., ₹2,000–15,000/day equivalent). Opt for plans with this in premium variants, especially for seniors or long trips.

Share your trip details for specific recommendations. Safe travels!