News
See articles and updates on topical issues, together with information sheets, brochures, annual reports, reviews and other resources in our document library.
See articles and updates on topical issues, together with information sheets, brochures, annual reports, reviews and other resources in our document library.
If you are facing hardship, contact your insurer to discuss options to keep your insurance in place. The Insurance Council says insurers have processes in place to support people experiencing vulnerability or hardship due to COVID-19.
Life insurers are asked about their approach to underwriting new insurance applications, and measures for customers facing financial stress, including premium waivers.
Story from RiskInfoNZ: April 7, 2020
Commerce Commission lender and borrower guidance includes: responsible lending principles, responding to borrowers in financial stress, and applying for changes to loans.
Insurance teams are working from home to provide their service during lockdown. They're asking customers to be patient and to get in touch online where possible as phone waiting times are long.
Story from Insurance Business Mag: 2 April, 2020
If you're under financial stress, check out the Govt support package: www.covid.govt.nz or call the helpline: 0800 779 997 before applying for Kiwisaver hardship withdrawals, says the Retirement Commissioner.
Please contact our free and independent service during this time. The IFSO Scheme team is working remotely and we welcome your questions, enquiries and complaints. Arohanui.
All government COVID-19 updates can now be found in one place, including health, business, community and travel advice.
New Zealanders are advised to avoid all non-essential travel and return home from overseas. Contact your insurer but be prepared for travel insurance to be affected.
Story from Newshub: 18 March, 2020
People should check with their insurers and airlines before making, changing or cancelling their travel plans, insurance and financial services ombudsman Karen Stevens has warned.
Story from Stuff: 7 March, 2020
As COVID-19 (coronavirus) causes flight cancellations and travel bans, IFSO Karen Stevens urges Kiwis to consult their airline, travel agent, and insurer before they change their travel plans.
Story from Insurance Business NZ: 10 March, 2020
A complaint against a financial adviser who facilitated withdrawals for a client caught by a relationship scammer has not been upheld by the IFSO Scheme.
Story from Good Returns: 9 March, 2020
Check: www.safetravel.govt.nz and check with your travel insurer, airline and/or travel agent to ask about your cover, and your options, if things change. For health and prevention guidance, see: www.health.govt.nz
Story from Newshub/NZ Herald: 2 March, 2020