SBI Card PRIME Discontinues ₹50 Lakh Air Accident Insurance

Heads up, SBI Prime cardholders! A significant change is coming to the insurance benefits associated with your premium credit card. SBI Card has announced the discontinuation of the complimentary Air Accident insurance coverage. This move is set to take effect from 15 July 2025.

This information was communicated to cardholders via email, which clearly states: "With effect from 15 July 2025, the complimentary Air Accident insurance coverage of ₹50 lakh currently offered on your card will be discontinued."

What's Changing?

For SBI Prime credit card users, the key change is the withdrawal of the complimentary Air Accident insurance cover, which was valued at ₹ 50 lakh. This insurance was a notable perk, offering a sense of security for cardholders during air travel.

It's important to note the effective date: 15 July 2025. Any air travel undertaken on or after this date will no longer be covered under this complimentary insurance policy provided by the SBI Prime Card.

While the provided notification specifically addresses the SBI Prime Card and its air accident cover, other reports indicate that SBI Card has been revising various benefits across its card portfolio. These broader changes have included adjustments to reward point programs and the discontinuation of other insurance covers, such as complimentary rail accident insurance on certain cards, with some of these wider changes cited to be effective from 26 July 2025.

Impact on Cardholders: What You Need to Know 

The discontinuation of this substantial insurance benefit means SBI Prime cardholders will lose an automatic layer of travel protection. This change underscores the need for cardholders to:

• Re-evaluate Travel Insurance: If you frequently travel by air and rely on this complimentary cover, you will need to assess your travel insurance needs going forward.
• Seek Alternatives: Cardholders may need to explore other avenues for air accident insurance. This could include:
  • Checking if other credit cards in their wallet offer similar coverage.
  • Purchasing standalone travel insurance policies that include air accident cover.
  • Opting for travel insurance offered by airlines at the time of booking.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for any further communications from SBI Card regarding your card benefits.

What Should You Do Now? 

1. Mark Your Calendar: Note the discontinuation date of 15 July 2025.
2. Review Upcoming Travel: If you have air travel planned on or after this date, be aware that this insurance will no longer be active.
3. Explore Insurance Options: Start looking into alternative travel insurance if this coverage was important for you. Compare policies and coverage amounts to find what best suits your needs.
4. Contact SBI Card (If Needed): For any specific queries or clarifications regarding your SBI Prime Card benefits, it's always best to reach out to SBI Card customer support directly.

The Bigger Picture 

This revision by SBI Card is part of a wider trend in the credit card industry where banks and card issuers periodically review and modify the benefits, rewards, and fees associated with their products. These changes can be influenced by various factors, including market conditions, the costs of providing benefits, and strategic shifts in product offerings.

For consumers, it highlights the importance of regularly reviewing the terms and conditions of their credit cards to stay updated on the benefits they are entitled to and any upcoming changes.

In conclusion, while the SBI Prime Card continues to offer various other privileges, the discontinuation of the ₹50 lakh complimentary Air Accident insurance from 15 July 2025 is a significant alteration. Cardholders are advised to take note of this change and make necessary arrangements for their future travel insurance needs.