תוכן עניינים
What Is a Retroactive Insurance Claim?
A retroactive claim in long-term care insurance refers to a claim submitted after the qualifying event has already occurred — sometimes long after. Many insured individuals or their families are unaware they can claim benefits for a period that has already passed, and in some cases for years of unpaid benefits.
When Is a Retroactive Claim Possible?
Under Israeli law, a retroactive claim is possible when the insured was entitled to benefits but did not file a timely claim — due to lack of awareness, illness, or administrative obstacles. The statute of limitations under the Insurance Contract Law (1981) is generally seven years, meaning claims can be submitted retroactively for up to seven years from when entitlement arose.
How to Build a Retroactive Claim
A retroactive claim requires gathering medical documentation from the relevant period — hospitalization records, physician opinions, nursing assessments, and ADL evaluation reports. The insurer will examine whether the qualifying conditions were met during the claimed period. An experienced lawyer can help reconstruct the evidentiary record and present the claim effectively.
Common Insurer Defenses and How to Counter Them
Insurers often reject retroactive claims by arguing that the medical condition at the time does not meet policy thresholds, or that documentation is incomplete. These defenses can frequently be overcome with thorough documentation and expert medical testimony.
How Much Can You Recover?
The retroactive amount can be substantial. Monthly benefits multiplied by months or years of delayed payment — plus statutory interest — can amount to hundreds of thousands of shekels in significant cases.
For help with a retroactive long-term care insurance claim, contact the attorneys at Lev-Taieb: 072-2428822.
