But hear us out – getting personal insurance now, while you’re young and healthy, can be one of the most important financial moves you can make. It’s about protecting what you’re building and keeping your options open for the long haul.  

Let’s break it down. 

Comparatively lower premiums 

When you're in your 20s or 30s, insurance might not feel urgent. But the reality is, this is the ideal time to take out cover.  

That’s because insurance premiums are calculated based on risk factors like your age, health and lifestyle. So naturally, applying for cover now means you’ll likely get a lower premium (all else being equal). That’s a big win, especially if you keep the cover for years to come. 

And here’s another potential advantage: some types of cover (like life insurance) let you choose a ‘level premium’ structure. Unlike stepped premiums, which start low but increase with age, level premiums stay the same over time. Yes, they cost a bit more at the beginning – but over decades, they can save you a lot. Plus, you’ll always know what to expect from your payments. 

Not sure if level premiums are right for you? A quick chat with an Insurance Link adviser can help you weigh up your options.  Here’s a visual to show how the two premium types compare over time: 

Access to comprehensive cover 

Another huge advantage of getting insured early? Better access to full cover with fewer restrictions. 

When you apply for insurance, your current health is assessed. If you’re in good shape, great – you’re more likely to be accepted with no exclusions. But if you wait until after a diagnosis or health scare, it could be much harder (or more expensive) to get cover for that condition – or even get cover at all. 

By applying now, you’re locking in your insurability while your health is on your side. And here’s the bonus: once you’ve got cover in place, you’ll usually be protected for future health issues, even if they develop years down the track, as long as your policy stays active. 

What kind of cover is worth considering? 

Your needs are unique—but if you’re in your 20s or 30s and just starting to build a financial foundation, here are a few types of cover worth having on your radar: 

• Income protection 

Your income keeps everything ticking—rent, groceries, your phone plan, even your weekend plans. But if you suddenly couldn’t work because of an illness or injury, how would you pay for it all? 

That’s where income protection comes in. It replaces part of your income while you recover, so you don’t have to drain your savings or stress about covering your costs. 

• Trauma cover 

Unfortunately, some serious health issues don’t wait until you’re older. Trauma cover gives you a lump sum payout if you’re diagnosed with one of the qualifying health conditions listed in the policy, including cancer or stroke. You can use that money as you like: it may help cover medical bills, let you take time off work, or simply give you breathing room to focus on getting better. 

• Health insurance 

Sure, New Zealand’s public health system is solid, and ACC covers accidents—but what about specialist appointments or non-urgent surgery? Health insurance gives you faster access to private treatment when you need it, and it’s usually more affordable (and easier to get) when you’re young and healthy. 

• Life insurance 

You might think life insurance isn’t relevant until you’ve got a house or kids—but if you have debt (like a student loan, car loan, or credit card), it’s still worth considering. 

Life insurance can help make sure your family or partner isn’t left to shoulder that debt if something unexpected happens. 

Like to discuss your needs? 

Not sure where to begin? That’s what we’re here for. 

Talk to an Insurance Link adviser today – we’ll help you figure out what kind of cover fits your life right now, and how to protect the life you’re building for the future. 

No pressure. No jargon. Just guidance you can trust. 

Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current development or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek financial advice. 

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