When you apply for insurance you will be entering into a legal contract with the insurance company.  The company will need to find out certain information about you so it can decide whether to insure you and, if so, how much it will cost. 

The sort of information they are likely to ask for includes:

• details of your health 
• family history 
• occupation 
• travel and residence 
• hazardous pastimes 
• alcohol consumption 
• smoking habits 
• use of recreational drugs.

It is absolutely vital that you answer all questions fully and truthfully, as any insurance policy you are offered will be based entirely on the information that you provide. 

It’s your responsibility to provide the information that is requested. If you don’t it may result in a future claim not being paid. The last thing you want is to find out that your policy won’t pay out when you really need it.

Insurance contracts are some of the most important forms people anyone will fill in. It’s important to complete the forms in as much detail as possible, and as accurately and honestly as possible. Here are a few tips:

• Give yourself plenty of time to complete the form, don’t rush it. 
• If you’re in any doubt as to the relevance of certain information, it’s best to include it. 
• Take a copy of the form so you can check your answers and see if you’ve left anything out. 
• If you remember any additional information after you have completed your form, or your circumstances change, you must contact the company and let them know. 
• Don’t assume the company will contact your doctor to fill in the gaps. 
• Remember all your medical details will be treated in the strictest confidence.