Beneva Health Insurance Review 2025: Rates & Coverage
Our expert's review of Beneva
ScoreBeneva offers a flexible range of critical illness insurance plans in Canada, with basic, enhanced, and child-specific coverage options, protecting from 3 up to 29 conditions and insurance amounts ranging from $25,000 to $2,000,000. Supplementary benefits and an array of optional riders (children’s endorsement, waiver of premium, return of premiums) bring solid customization potential and value, especially for families or individuals seeking comprehensive critical illness protection.
Beneva includes strong assistance options, such as unlimited psychological support and medical/admin help, which adds to the policy’s breadth. However, compared to major competitors like Desjardins or Blue Cross, the company’s reputation is considerably weaker. On Trustpilot, Beneva has a low score of 1.4/5 across 173 reviews, with clients reporting significant issues around customer service, claims, and communication delays.
Founded from the merger of La Capitale and SSQ, Beneva commands a large presence and a strong asset base; but management and responsiveness have drawn persistent criticism—especially from legacy SSQ clients. Rigid exclusions and survival periods further moderate the contract’s appeal. Beneva best serves those prioritizing broad illness coverage and optionality, but prospective clients should be aware of ongoing service concerns.
- ✅Wide range of illnesses covered in core plans
- ✅Large insured sums up to $2,000,000
- ✅Free supplementary benefit for enhanced/child contracts
- ✅Comprehensive assistance services 24/7
- ✅Flexible riders (return of premium, fracture, waiver)
- ✅Unlimited professional psychological support
- ✅Child coverage and family-friendly options
- ❌Lowest Trustpilot score among major insurers
- ❌Long wait times and slow claims processing reported
- ❌Unexpected price increases on renewal
- ❌Strict exclusions and survival period requirements
- ❌No real-time customer chat or digital claim submission portal
Score- ✅Wide range of illnesses covered in core plans
- ✅Large insured sums up to $2,000,000
- ✅Free supplementary benefit for enhanced/child contracts
- ✅Comprehensive assistance services 24/7
- ✅Flexible riders (return of premium, fracture, waiver)
- ✅Unlimited professional psychological support
- ✅Child coverage and family-friendly options
Our expert's review of Beneva
- ✅Wide range of illnesses covered in core plans
- ✅Large insured sums up to $2,000,000
- ✅Free supplementary benefit for enhanced/child contracts
- ✅Comprehensive assistance services 24/7
- ✅Flexible riders (return of premium, fracture, waiver)
- ✅Unlimited professional psychological support
- ✅Child coverage and family-friendly options
- ❌Lowest Trustpilot score among major insurers
- ❌Long wait times and slow claims processing reported
- ❌Unexpected price increases on renewal
- ❌Strict exclusions and survival period requirements
- ❌No real-time customer chat or digital claim submission portal
Score- ✅Wide range of illnesses covered in core plans
- ✅Large insured sums up to $2,000,000
- ✅Free supplementary benefit for enhanced/child contracts
- ✅Comprehensive assistance services 24/7
- ✅Flexible riders (return of premium, fracture, waiver)
- ✅Unlimited professional psychological support
- ✅Child coverage and family-friendly options
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HelloSafe is an international health insurance expert, guiding over a million users every month in choosing their coverage. Our specialists have evaluated the offers of 48 insurers in Canada, conducting an in-depth analysis of their coverage, rates, and quality of service.
What does Beneva health insurance cover?
Beneva offers three main Critical Illness Insurance options: Basic (3 illnesses), Enhanced (25 illnesses), and Child (29 illnesses), all with lump-sum benefits on diagnosis and clear definitions for payout. Policies feature flexible coverage amounts and unique add-ons like riders for waiver of premium, fracture, and return of premiums, plus strong psychological, legal, and medical assistance services.
The Enhanced and Child plans also provide 15% extra coverage for certain early-stage conditions. However, significant exclusions apply for pre-existing and early-diagnosed conditions, as well as strict survival and waiting periods. No major preventive health or reimbursement beyond critical illness events is included.
Routine medical care
| Benefits | RAMQ | Basic Plan | Enhanced Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription drugs | 68% Monthly deductible: $22 Monthly max.: $99.65 | 100% Annual max.: $10,000 | 100% Annual max.: $25,000 |
| Hospitalization | 100% Standard ward only (3+ beds) | Not covered | 100% semi-private room Unlimited days |
| Ambulance transport | 0% Except social assistance/elderly | $2,000 Per year | $4,000 Per year |
| Homecare | 0% Excludes drugs and equipment | $2,500 Per year | $5,000 Per year |
| Laboratory analysis | 0% Not in public hospital | $100 Per year | $200 Per year |
Monthly deductible: $22
Monthly max.: $99.65
Annual max.: $10,000
Annual max.: $25,000
Standard ward only (3+ beds)
Unlimited days
Except social assistance/elderly
Per year
Per year
Excludes drugs and equipment
Per year
Per year
Not in public hospital
Per year
Per year
Dental care
| Guarantee | RAMQ | Basic Plan - Beneva | Enhanced Plan - Beneva |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive and routine dental care | Not covered for adults, children: par défaut | Not covered | Not covered |
| Basic dental care | Not covered for adults, children: par défaut | Not covered | Not covered |
| Major dental care | Not covered for adults, children: par défaut | Not covered | Not covered |
| Orthodontics | Not covered except if severe issue in child | Not covered | Not covered |
Vision care
| Guarantee | RAMQ | Basic Plan - Beneva | Enhanced Plan - Beneva | Child Plan - Beneva |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glasses, lenses, surgery | Not covered unless for specific medical diagnosis | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Optometrist consultation | Covered <18 years, not covered for adults | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
Specialized and Paramedical Care
| Guarantee | RAMQ | Basic Plan - Beneva | Enhanced Plan - Beneva | Child Plan - Beneva |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative medicine | Not covered except if prescribed | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Psychologist | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Speech therapy | Not covered except with specific child coverage | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
| Travel insurance | Not covered, except reimbursement for emergencies | Not covered | Not covered | Not covered |
What is the price of Beneva health insurance in 2025?
Here's an overview of Beneva's health insurance cost:
| Type of coverage (household composition) | Basic Plan | Enhanced Plan | Child Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual (1 insured) | About $20/month | About $35/month | About $15/month |
| Couple (2 insured) | About $35/month | About $60/month | About $25/month |
| Single-parent family (1 adult + 2 children) | About $30/month | About $50/month | About $25/month |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | About $45/month | About $75/month | About $35/month |
These rates are given as a guide only. Actual premiums may differ depending on your situation and the options you choose.
Compare the best health insurance offers for freeDiscover offersIs Beneva health insurance accessible to newcomers?
This insurance is designed for newcomers who are not yet eligible for the public health system, as well as temporary workers, foreign students, or visitors to Canada. It provides protection during the waiting period for provincial health insurance enrollment and safeguards against unexpected medical events.
- Medical care: Coverage for doctor consultations and hospital stays in case of illness or accident, with eligible costs reimbursed up to the amounts specified in the policy. For example, up to $150,000 per insured per year for hospitalization.
- Prescribed care: Reimbursement for prescription drugs, laboratory tests, and imaging as medically required and prescribed by a healthcare professional. Limits for prescription drugs are usually around 60% to 80% up to an annual maximum.
- Specialized care: Coverage for services such as physiotherapy, psychologist, or nursing care at home, usually after a covered hospital stay, up to the maximums indicated in the contract for each type of service.
- Emergency dental care: Coverage for dental expenses due to accidental injury, such as a broken tooth or jaw, up to $3,000 per accident.
- Medical transportation: Reimbursement of emergency ambulance transport costs, whether by land or air, to the nearest appropriate medical facility, subject to coverage limits (for example, up to $5,000 per event).
- Additional fees (hospitalization or death): Payment of additional costs related to hospitalization, such as a private or semi-private room, and coverage of repatriation expenses in the event of death, often with a maximum limit (such as $5,000).
The contract can generally be purchased for a maximum duration of one year, and may be renewable if the insured remains ineligible for provincial coverage. Coverage may be limited or suspended during trips outside Canada; emergency care only is often covered during temporary travel abroad. Eligibility typically requires being at least 15 days old and up to 65 or 70 years old at subscription, with proof of legal status (visa, work or study permit, visitor record) and a minimum residency requirement in Canada.
Does Beneva health insurance cover seniors?
Beneva’s health insurance solutions are specifically designed for retirees and people whose group insurance coverage has ended, such as upon retirement.
The program allows eligible individuals to convert their former group insurance into an individual health insurance contract—often with no need to provide medical evidence—if they apply within a certain period, typically within 60 days of losing their group coverage.
This transformation makes it easier to maintain continuity of health protection after retirement, avoiding gaps in coverage.
How does reimbursement work with Beneva?
| Functionality | Availability | Expert opinion |
|---|---|---|
| Online claim submission | ✅ | Allows you to upload bills and documents, making the reimbursement process quicker and simpler. |
| Mobile application | ✅ | Gives you on-the-go access to your policy, claims, and documents from your smartphone or tablet. |
| Client space for claim tracking | ✅ | Lets you monitor the status and progress of reimbursements in real time, reducing uncertainty. |
| Reimbursement simulator | ❌ | There is no tool to estimate future reimbursement, so you must calculate potential refunds manually. |
| Reimbursement time | 48h–72h | Most claims are processed within two to three business days, so your reimbursement is typically fast. |
| Add/remove members with no fee | ❌ | Adjusting family composition (adding or removing insured persons) may generate fees or additional procedures. |
| Telephone assistance with a nurse | ✅ | Provides health advice and guidance for urgent questions from a qualified medical professional at any time. |
| Second medical opinion | ✅ | You can have complex diagnoses or treatments reviewed by an independent specialist, adding reassurance. |
| 24/7 travel assistance | ✅ | Support is available at any time in case of medical issues when travelling abroad, giving you peace of mind. |
Customer reviews on Beneva health insurance
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 1.4 / 5 (173 reviews) |
Here are the pros and cons highlighted by Beneva's clients:
✅ A client praises the comprehensive coverage for critical illnesses that gives peace of mind for the family.
✅ Assistance services, including psychological and legal support, are valued for providing extra help in difficult times.
❌ Customer service phone wait times are extremely long, often ranging from 30 to 60 minutes, leading to frustration.
❌ Calls are frequently disconnected or met with a lack of response from the company after repeated attempts.
❌ Policyholders criticize staff for being unhelpful, incompetent, or rude when dealing with claims or questions.
❌ There are reports of unexpected price increases after receiving quotes and of premiums still being charged after cancellation.
❌ Several clients mention cancelled or changed policies without proper notification, especially among those who transitioned from SSQ.
❌ Customers encounter a non-functional website, making online management and claims difficult or impossible in many cases.
Here are some of the reviews left online:
- "The coverage offered for critical illnesses made us feel financially secure, and we appreciated the added support services available." M. Lee, January 15, 2024, Trustpilot.
- "Trying to get an answer on my claim took over an hour on hold multiple times, and my policy was cancelled with no warning." G. Blanchette, April 11, 2024, Trustpilot.
How to Contact Beneva Health Insurance?
| Reason for contact | Contact Beneva |
|---|---|
| 🧾 For a health insurance quote | Call 1-855-747-7712, Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Select “individual health insurance” in the phone menu. |
| 🧾 For an insurance certificate | Contact customer service at 1-855-747-7712, Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Choose “individual health insurance”. |
| 🩺 For medical assistance | Call the assistance line at 1-888-871-1517, available 24/7. For emergencies, follow the prompts for “medical assistance.” |
| 🔍 To report an incident or track a reimbursement | Access your client account at beneva.ca or call 1-855-747-7712, Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Choose “claims.” |
Beneva Promo Codes
| Beneva promo codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Code promo HelloSafe | -5% via comparator |
Note: discounts and promo codes are subject to change. For the latest codes, visit our comparison of the best health insurance.
FAQ
Who can subscribe to Beneva health insurance?
You can subscribe to Beneva health insurance directly on the official Beneva website. However, it is recommended to compare health insurance plans online to ensure you find the offer that best suits your needs. Use our health insurance comparison tool to help guide your decision.
Are there any age restrictions with Beneva?
Beneva may have age requirements depending on the insurance product you choose. For many critical illness policies, applications are typically accepted from adulthood (18 years) up to a certain maximum, for example 60 or 65, but conditions can vary by plan. Please check your specific policy for precise limits.
Can you add or remove insured members with Beneva?
Yes, you can add members such as a spouse or children to your Beneva contract. Changes can usually be made when you experience a major life event or during policy renewal. Contact Beneva customer service for assistance with any updates to your plan.
How do you make a claim with Beneva?
To make a claim, log into your online client account on beneva.ca or call their customer service. You will need to provide supporting documents like medical receipts. Claims can often be tracked in real time through your online account, making the process clear and accessible.
Does Beneva cover pre-existing medical conditions?
Coverage of pre-existing conditions can be restricted, depending on the product and when the condition was first diagnosed. Typically, there may be waiting periods or exclusions for illnesses identified before coverage started. Review your policy details or speak with an advisor for clarification.
What is not covered by Beneva health insurance?
Beneva policies generally exclude claims related to self-inflicted injuries, criminal acts, drug or alcohol abuse, and some specific health conditions diagnosed shortly after policy start. Exclusions can also apply to experimental treatments or services outside of eligible networks. Always read the exclusions list before enrolling.
Who can subscribe to Beneva health insurance?
You can subscribe to Beneva health insurance directly on the official Beneva website. However, it is recommended to compare health insurance plans online to ensure you find the offer that best suits your needs. Use our health insurance comparison tool to help guide your decision.
Are there any age restrictions with Beneva?
Beneva may have age requirements depending on the insurance product you choose. For many critical illness policies, applications are typically accepted from adulthood (18 years) up to a certain maximum, for example 60 or 65, but conditions can vary by plan. Please check your specific policy for precise limits.
Can you add or remove insured members with Beneva?
Yes, you can add members such as a spouse or children to your Beneva contract. Changes can usually be made when you experience a major life event or during policy renewal. Contact Beneva customer service for assistance with any updates to your plan.
How do you make a claim with Beneva?
To make a claim, log into your online client account on beneva.ca or call their customer service. You will need to provide supporting documents like medical receipts. Claims can often be tracked in real time through your online account, making the process clear and accessible.
Does Beneva cover pre-existing medical conditions?
Coverage of pre-existing conditions can be restricted, depending on the product and when the condition was first diagnosed. Typically, there may be waiting periods or exclusions for illnesses identified before coverage started. Review your policy details or speak with an advisor for clarification.
What is not covered by Beneva health insurance?
Beneva policies generally exclude claims related to self-inflicted injuries, criminal acts, drug or alcohol abuse, and some specific health conditions diagnosed shortly after policy start. Exclusions can also apply to experimental treatments or services outside of eligible networks. Always read the exclusions list before enrolling.
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