GST Exemption on Life and Health Insurance ~ A Historic Step Towards Affordable Protection!

GST Exemption on Life and Health Insurance: In a landmark decision, the 56th GST Council meeting chaired by Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman has approved complete exemption from Goods and Services Tax (GST) on all life and health insurance policies, including reinsurance.

This bold reform is not just about tax relief—it is about making financial protection accessible to every Indian household.

The Spirit Behind the Reform

Announced as part of the next-generation GST reforms by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on 15th August 2025, this exemption reflects a citizen-first approach.

Insurance is no longer seen as a luxury but as a social necessity. By removing GST on premiums, the government has ensured that the common man’s hard-earned money goes directly into protection, not taxation.

👉 Read the official PIB press release here

What the GST Exemption Covers

The exemption is broad-based and inclusive, covering:

• Life Insurance Policies – Term life, ULIPs, endowment, and traditional savings products.
• Health Insurance Policies – Individual covers, family floaters, and senior citizen policies.
• Reinsurance – A relief for insurers that will translate into more affordable offerings for customers.

Why This Matters for Citizens

1. Lower Premiums, Higher Coverage – Households can now buy insurance without worrying about an additional 18% GST.
2. Encouraging First-Time Buyers – Young earners and low-income families will find policies more affordable.
3. Senior Citizen Relief – Elderly citizens, who often face high health insurance costs, will benefit greatly.
4. Stronger Safety Net – With wider adoption, more families will be financially secure in times of crisis.

Impact on the Insurance Industry

This reform is a win-win. While citizens save money, the industry gains momentum:

• Higher Insurance Penetration – India will see a surge in policy subscriptions, bridging the protection gap.
• Industry Innovation – Insurers can focus on designing affordable, tailor-made products.
• Trust & Transparency – Removal of GST reduces disputes over tax calculations in claims.

Policy with Purpose

The exemption underscores the government’s resolve to strengthen social security while simplifying GST.

As the Finance Minister has consistently highlighted on her official channels, the focus remains on ease of living for citizens and ease of doing business for the industry.

👉 Follow updates from the Finance Minister’s office here: Nirmala Sitharaman – Official X Handle

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is GST applicable on health insurance after September 2025?
No. From September 22, 2025, all health insurance policies are GST-free, including family floater and senior citizen covers.

Q2. Does the exemption also cover life insurance products like ULIPs and endowment plans?
Yes. The reform applies to all individual life insurance policies including ULIPs, endowment, and term policies.

Q3. Will premiums reduce immediately?
Yes. Since GST at 18% has been removed, policyholders will see lower premiums from the date of implementation.

Q4. How does this help senior citizens?
Senior citizen health policies, often expensive, will now cost significantly less, enabling wider access to health coverage.

Q5. Why was this reform needed?
It aligns with the government’s vision of universal financial protection, ensuring that insurance is affordable, accessible, and inclusive.

👉 For more FAQs, refer Press Release: Press Information Bureau

✅ With this exemption, India takes a giant leap towards affordable insurance for all—strengthening families, supporting senior citizens, and promoting a culture of protection across the nation.

👉 Stay updated with GST reforms on the official portal: GST Council – Ministry of Finance