Introduction
If you’ve ever renewed your two-wheeler insurance, you might have seen a discount called NCB — but do you know what it really means?
NCB (No Claim Bonus) is a reward from insurers for being a careful rider. The fewer claims you make in a year, the more you save on your next premium. It’s like getting a pat on the back for safe riding — and who doesn’t love a reward that saves money?
Understanding NCB
NCB stands for No Claim Bonus. Simply put, it’s a discount on your insurance premium for each year you don’t make a claim.
Key points:
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NCB is applicable only on comprehensive insurance, not on mandatory third-party insurance.
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It accumulates each year, increasing your discount potential.
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NCB is different from promotional discounts or seasonal offers — it is earned based on your riding behavior.
How NCB Works
Here’s how it typically works for two-wheeler insurance:
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First year: No NCB is applied, standard premium applies.
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After 1 claim-free year: You may get 20% discount on renewal.
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2 claim-free years: Discount increases to 25-30%.
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Maximum NCB: Usually up to 50%, depending on the insurer.
The key rule: Even a single claim in a policy year may reduce your NCB in the next renewal. Think of it as a “reward for good behavior” system.
Types of Two-Wheeler Insurance
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Third-Party Insurance: Covers damage to another person’s property or injury. NCB does not apply here.
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Comprehensive Insurance: Covers your bike and third-party liabilities. NCB applies to this policy and can significantly reduce premiums.
Benefits of NCB
1. Reduce Insurance Premiums
The most obvious benefit — NCB directly lowers your renewal premium. For long-term riders, it can save thousands of rupees over the years.
2. Encourages Safe Riding
Since NCB rewards claim-free behavior, it naturally motivates riders to drive cautiously, avoid accidents, and maintain their bikes properly.
3. Can Be Transferred or Continued
If you switch insurers, your NCB moves with you, ensuring your hard-earned discount isn’t lost. This flexibility makes NCB a valuable asset.
NCB Transfer
Changing insurers? No problem. NCB can be transferred, but here’s how:
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Request your NCB certificate from your current insurer.
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Provide it to the new insurer when buying a new policy.
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The new insurer applies the corresponding discount on your premium.
Tip: Keep a digital copy of your NCB certificate for easier transfers.
NCB Protection Add-On
Many insurers offer NCB protection — a special add-on that lets you retain your NCB even if you make a claim.
Pros:
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Your discount remains intact for future renewals
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Encourages safe riding without fear of losing benefits
Cons:
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Adds a small cost to your premium
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Usually limited to one claim per policy year
Common Myths About NCB
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Myth 1: NCB is only for new bikes.
Fact: Any rider with a claim-free history can earn NCB. -
Myth 2: Minor claims always cancel NCB.
Fact: With NCB protection, minor claims may not affect your bonus. -
Myth 3: NCB cannot be carried forward.
Fact: NCB can be transferred across insurers and policies.
How to Check Your NCB
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Log in to your insurer’s portal
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Check your policy documents
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Use mobile apps provided by insurers
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Keep the certificate safe for renewal or transfer
Tips to Maximize NCB Benefits
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Avoid unnecessary small claims
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Renew policies on time to prevent NCB loss
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Consider long-term insurance plans to compound discounts
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Keep your bike in good condition to reduce accidental claims
Mistakes to Avoid
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Ignoring NCB while renewing
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Forgetting to update NCB after claims
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Assuming NCB is automatically applied without confirmation
Conclusion
NCB is one of the smartest ways to save money on two-wheeler insurance. By riding safely, claiming only when necessary, and protecting your NCB, you can enjoy substantial discounts and better control over your insurance costs.
Remember, every claim-free year is not just a discount — it’s a reward for responsible riding.
FAQs
1. What is the maximum NCB I can get on a two-wheeler insurance policy?
Most insurers allow up to 50% discount on the premium for a long claim-free history.
2. Does NCB apply to third-party insurance?
No, NCB is applicable only on comprehensive two-wheeler insurance.
3. Can I transfer my NCB to a new insurer?
Yes, with a valid NCB certificate, you can transfer your discount to a new insurer seamlessly.
4. What happens to my NCB if I make a claim?
Without NCB protection, your bonus may reduce. With NCB protection add-on, it may remain unaffected.
5. How can I check my NCB online?
You can check through your insurer’s website, mobile app, or policy documents, and download the certificate for proof.
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