Excess
The fixed dollar amount you pay towards a claim before the insurer contributes anything. Think of it like an excess on car or house insurance. Most NZ pet insurers let you choose your excess level (For example, $100 / $250 / $500): a lower excess usually means a higher premium, and vice versa. Beyond the dollar amount, it's how often that excess applies that varies the most between insurers. They either won’t charge and excess at all, charge it annually, charge it per condition, or charge it per claim. FurWise shows these clearly depending on how often you need to pay an excess.
Per-claim excessYou pay the excess every single time you submit a claim, even if several claims relate to the same ongoing condition. The most expensive structure over time for a condition needing repeat treatment.
Per-condition excessYou pay the excess once for each distinct condition or injury. Further claims for that same condition within the policy period don't trigger the excess again — but a new, unrelated condition does.
Annual excessYou pay the excess once per policy year in total, covering every claim you make that year, no matter how many separate conditions are involved. Generally the better structure if your pet is likely to need ongoing or repeat treatment.
Nil excessNo excess at all — every eligible claim is paid from the first dollar (before any co-payment). The best structure for your wallet, though it's rarely offered without a higher premium or a co-payment to balance it.
