UK mutual health and protection insurer The Exeter paid out £61 million in claims during 2024 across its health insurance, income protection and life insurance products, according to its latest claims statistics.

Of that total, £41.8 million related to health insurance claims, while a further £17.7 million was paid across income protection and life insurance – a figure that includes terminal illness claims.

The insurer reported that 90% of all new private health insurance claims were paid last year. Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders were the most common reason for claims under these policies. Where claims were not accepted, the most frequent reason given was that the claim fell within the initial moratorium period of the policy.

In its income protection portfolio, The Exeter said 93% of new claims were paid in 2024. The firm received 1,091 claims from members across its range of income protection products. The average age of those claiming on its flagship Income First product was 38, with claim durations averaging 76 weeks for full-term cover and 75 weeks for policies with limited benefits.

Musculoskeletal conditions were also the leading cause of claims in income protection, followed by mental health issues and hip or knee-related conditions.

Meanwhile, The Exeter paid out on every life insurance and terminal illness claim it received in 2024, distributing a total of £5.2 million to members. The average age at claim was 57 for life insurance and 56 for terminal illness claims.

Isobel Langton, chief executive of The Exeter, said: “No one wants to be in a position where they need to make an insurance claim – especially when the claim is due to ill health, injury, or the loss of a loved one.

“Our latest claims figures highlight the valuable peace of mind that insurance can provide and also reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting our members when they most need us.”