If a Capitec funeral policy premium goes unpaid, the policy doesn’t lapse immediately. Here’s what actually happens, and what to do if it already has.
Your Cover Stops the Moment the Grace Period Ends
Most funeral policies work on a grace period, typically around 30 days, before cover actually lapses. During that window, your cover is often still technically active, so paying the outstanding premium right away can prevent a lapse altogether.
Once the grace period passes without payment, the policy lapses. From that point, no death benefit is payable, no matter how many years of premiums were paid before the lapse.
Reinstating a Lapsed Policy
If your policy has lapsed, reinstatement is usually possible but not automatic. In general, insurers require you to apply for reinstatement within a set window after the lapse, pay any outstanding premiums, and in some cases complete a new health declaration.
If you’re past the reinstatement window, or the insurer declines reinstatement, you’ll need to take out a new policy, which usually means a new waiting period before full benefits apply again.
Because reinstatement terms vary by policy and can change, the most reliable next step is to contact Capitec directly on 0860 77 75 54 to confirm your specific policy’s grace period, reinstatement window, and what you’d need to pay to restore cover.
What to Do Right Now If Your Cover Has Lapsed
Act quickly. The longer a policy sits lapsed, the more likely you are to fall outside any reinstatement window.
Contact your provider immediately and ask directly whether your policy can still be reinstated, what you owe, and by when.
Check your bank account for the reason the debit order failed. A closed account, insufficient funds, or updated card details are the most common causes, and some are quick to fix.
While you sort out reinstatement, don’t assume you’re covered. If a death in the family happens during a lapse, no claim will be paid on that policy.
Consider Cover That Doesn’t Depend on a Single Debit Order
One reason funeral policies lapse is that they rely entirely on one bank account and one debit order date going through every month. If your income is irregular, or you’ve had payment issues before, it’s worth asking any provider you’re considering, including Everest Funerals, about their grace periods, reinstatement terms, and payment flexibility before you sign up.
Get Help Reviewing Your Options
If you’re dealing with a lapsed policy and want a second option in place while you sort it out, Everest Funerals can talk you through our funeral plans and payout terms. Call +27 (0)14 538 0210, visit 50 Napoleon Street, Rustenburg North, or email admin.ho@everestfunerals.net.