SBI Card to Withdraw Complimentary Air-Accident Insurance on Select Cards: In a major policy shift, SBI Card has announced that it will discontinue the complimentary air accident insurance benefit on several of its popular credit card variants starting July 15, 2025. The news surfaced through multiple user posts on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and has since stirred concern among many loyal SBI cardholders. This move marks a significant change in the premium offerings that were previously used to attract high-spending customers.
Currently, premium cards like SBI Card Elite, SBI Card Miles Elite, and SBI Card Miles Prime come bundled with an air accident insurance cover of up to ₹1 crore, a key selling point for frequent flyers. Additionally, SBI Card Prime and SBI Card Pulse offer insurance of up to ₹50 lakh. All these cards will lose this benefit after the mid-July deadline, leaving cardholders without this specific layer of financial protection during air travel.
This withdrawal may impact how cardholders perceive the value proposition of premium SBI credit cards, especially for those who travel often and considered this complimentary insurance a major perk. As of the time of writing, SBI Card has not issued an official statement, and emails sent by the media to seek clarification have gone unanswered. In this article, we explore what this change means for existing and new users, who can apply, and the alternatives available.
Impacted Cards: What’s Changing?
| Card Name | Current Air Accident Insurance | Status After July 15, 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| SBI Card Elite | ₹1 Crore | Benefit Withdrawn |
| SBI Card Miles Elite | ₹1 Crore | Benefit Withdrawn |
| SBI Card Miles Prime | ₹1 Crore | Benefit Withdrawn |
| SBI Card Prime | ₹50 Lakh | Benefit Withdrawn |
| SBI Card Pulse | ₹50 Lakh | Benefit Withdrawn |
Who Can Apply for SBI Credit Cards?
Anyone who meets the basic eligibility criteria can apply for SBI credit cards. Here’s a quick overview:
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an Indian resident
- Age between 21 and 60 years
- Must have a stable source of income
- A good credit score (preferably 750 or above)
You can still apply for SBI Cards like Elite or Prime, but you will not receive the air accident insurance benefit post-July 15, 2025.
Also read: How to Switch Health Insurance: Without Losing Benefits in India (2025 Guide)
What Were the Insurance Fees?
The air accident insurance benefit was offered complimentary with the eligible cards. There were no separate fees charged. However, these cards do carry annual fees as below:
| Card Variant | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| SBI Card Elite | ₹4,999 + GST |
| SBI Card Miles Elite | ₹4,999 + GST |
| SBI Card Miles Prime | ₹2,999 + GST |
| SBI Card Prime | ₹2,999 + GST |
| SBI Card Pulse | ₹1,499 + GST |
How to Use Air Accident Insurance (Until July 15, 2025)
If you’re still covered until July 15, 2025, here’s how to benefit from it:
1. Ensure your flight is booked using the SBI Card
Only tickets purchased using the specific card were eligible for the insurance cover.
2. Document Everything
Maintain boarding passes, transaction records, and flight booking details.
3. In Case of a Claim
Nominee or beneficiary must contact SBI General Insurance or the third-party insurance partner, providing necessary documents such as:
- FIR (if applicable)
- Death certificate
- Identity proof
- Card statement showing the ticket purchase
After July 15, 2025, this process becomes obsolete for air accident-related claims as the benefit will no longer apply.
How to Apply for SBI Cards (Despite Benefit Withdrawal)
Even without this insurance benefit, SBI Cards still offer a range of other privileges like lounge access, milestone benefits, and cashback. Here’s how to apply:
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the official SBI Card website
- Choose your desired card variant
- Click on “Apply Now”
- Fill out the application form with your details
- Upload your KYC documents and submit
Once submitted, you can track the application status through the SBI Card website or app.
Important Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Official Withdrawal Announcement | June 2025 (via X) |
| Last Date for Coverage | July 14, 2025 |
| Benefit Officially Ends On | July 15, 2025 |
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only. The data presented here is based on publicly available information and social media updates as of June 2025. SBI Card has not officially confirmed these details through a press release or email response. Readers are advised to verify all information through official sources before making any financial decisions. The author or publisher of this article shall not be held liable for any discrepancy or financial loss incurred.
SBI Card to Withdraw Complimentary Air-Accident Insurance on Select Cards Conclusion
The withdrawal of complimentary air accident insurance from some of the most premium SBI credit cards is a significant change for both existing and new customers. While these cards continue to offer value in the form of travel benefits, reward points, and lounge access, the removal of this crucial insurance coverage may prompt many to reconsider their options.
For frequent flyers and business travelers, this decision is particularly impactful. Many relied on the ₹1 crore or ₹50 lakh cover as an added layer of security when flying. With this gone, such users may seek alternative credit cards or dedicated travel insurance policies that offer similar protection.
It also highlights the importance of reading the fine print of credit card benefits, which can change without prior personal notice. Customers should regularly check card updates via the official SBI Card website or customer care channels.
In the long run, this move may push competitors to differentiate themselves by continuing or even upgrading their insurance offerings, potentially benefiting customers who shop around. For now, SBI cardholders should take note of this deadline and plan accordingly.
SBI Card to Withdraw Complimentary Air-Accident Insurance on Select Cards FAQs
1. Why is SBI Card withdrawing the air accident insurance benefit?
SBI Card has not officially provided a reason, but such benefit changes often stem from cost optimization or strategic realignment of value offerings. While the exact rationale remains unconfirmed, it may be an effort to streamline card features across tiers.
2. What should I do if I want air travel insurance after July 15, 2025?
You can purchase standalone travel or air accident insurance from reputed insurers like ICICI Lombard, HDFC Ergo, or Tata AIG. Alternatively, explore other premium credit cards (like HDFC Infinia or Axis Magnus) that continue to offer this benefit.
3. Will the SBI Card annual fee be reduced since this benefit is removed?
As of now, no announcement has been made regarding any fee revision. Cardholders will still be charged the full annual fee even though the air accident insurance is being withdrawn.
4. Is this change applicable to all SBI credit cards?
No, this change is applicable only to select premium cards, including SBI Card Elite, Miles Elite, Miles Prime, Prime, and Pulse. Entry-level or co-branded cards were not offering this benefit in the first place.
5. Can I cancel my SBI Card due to this policy change?
Yes, cardholders can choose to cancel their SBI credit card at any time. Contact SBI Card customer care, clear any outstanding dues, and submit a formal closure request. It is advisable to download your last few statements for reference before cancellation.
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