Excess: the part you always pay
An excess is the amount you contribute to each claim. It is normally listed on your schedule, and more than one excess can apply at the same time.
Your policy uses the word “excess” for the first slice of a repair bill that stays with you. It is not a fee for making a claim; it is part of the risk you agreed to carry.
Start with the schedule
Look for the line beside the type of cover you are claiming under. A standard excess might apply to accidental damage, while a separate compulsory excess applies if the driver is under 25.
…the Insurer's liability shall be reduced by the amount of the Excess applicable to each and every claim…
This means the excess is taken every time an incident is claimed, rather than once in a policy year.
How excesses stack
If two conditions apply, the schedule may add them. A €300 standard excess and €150 young-driver excess can mean you pay €450 before the insurer pays anything.
IDA reads the schedule and shows the figure with the line it came from.
Before you choose a higher voluntary excess
- Could you pay the amount without delaying an essential repair?
- Does the premium reduction add up to more than the extra risk?
- Are other compulsory excesses added on top?
This guide explains general policy wording for education. Your own policy decides what applies.