Insurance in Israel

Bituach Leumi is Israel’s National Insurance Institute. It administers social insurance and several public benefits, but it is not a replacement for every private insurance need. Residents generally receive basic health services through a health fund called a kupat holim. The public health basket defines core services, while access and procedures operate through the chosen health fund. Health funds may offer supplementary coverage, often called shaban. This is different from private health insurance, although some services or benefits can overlap. Vehicle protection has several layers. Compulsory insurance addresses bodily injury, while property-related protection is handled through separate third-party or comprehensive cover. Home insurance can protect the building, household contents, or both. Renters and owners face different risks, and a landlord’s policy does not automatically protect a tenant’s belongings or liability. Life insurance pays according to the policy when the insured person dies. Disability or loss-of-working-capacity protection focuses on income when illness or injury prevents work, and some pension arrangements include insurance elements. Travel insurance is designed for risks during a trip, especially medical events and selected disruptions or property losses. Existing health or card benefits should not be assumed to provide complete overseas protection. Every policy contains definitions, exclusions, limits, waiting conditions, and claim procedures. The useful comparison is the protection actually provided, not only the premium.