Most young people don’t think twice before spending on the latest smartphones, travel adventures, or eating out at trendy places. But when it comes to buying health insurance, the usual response is, “I’ll get it later”. Ironically, the younger you are, the lower your premiums will be, yet most delay the purchase until it becomes expensive or too late. Buying health insurance early in life is one of the smartest and most practical financial decisions you can make.
It’s easy to think that health insurance is unnecessary when you’re in your 20s and feel fit. However, health is unpredictable. Today, more young people are being diagnosed with lifestyle-related conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart issues due to stress, irregular routines, and sedentary habits. Accidents and sudden illnesses can also strike without warning. Insurance is not about expecting to fall sick—it’s about being prepared for the unexpected.
Healthcare expenses in India are increasing at an alarming pace. Hospitalization costs have doubled in many cities over the past decade. A simple surgery or a two-day stay at a private hospital can cost ₹25,000–₹1,00,000, while advanced treatments such as heart surgery or cancer care can run into several lakhs. Without insurance, one medical emergency can drain years of savings or lead to debt. Early health insurance helps you stay ahead of these rising costs.
Buying health insurance in your 20s gives you a major financial advantage—low premiums. Younger policyholders pay significantly less compared to someone in their 30s or 40s for the same coverage. For instance, a 25-year-old may pay almost half of what a 40-year-old pays. Locking in your policy early ensures you enjoy affordable premiums for years to come, making it easier to maintain coverage without financial strain.
Another important reason to start early is the issue of pre-existing conditions and waiting periods. Health insurance policies typically come with waiting periods for pre-existing conditions and certain treatments. If you buy a plan early, these waiting periods pass while you’re still healthy. By the time you might need medical care, you’re already fully covered. If you wait until after a diagnosis, you could face long exclusions, higher premiums, or even outright rejection from insurers.
Many young professionals rely solely on employer-provided health insurance, but this is a risky move. While useful, such policies have limits. The coverage amount may not be sufficient for major treatments, and the policy ends if you change jobs, lose your job, or take a career break. Employer policies may also offer limited coverage for family members. This is why having a personal, independent health insurance policy is crucial—it stays with you no matter where you work.
Health insurance also offers financial benefits beyond medical protection. Under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act in India, premiums paid for health insurance are eligible for tax deductions. This means that apart from securing your health, you also save money on taxes. For young earners just starting their careers, this adds up as an additional financial advantage.
Perhaps the greatest benefit of health insurance is peace of mind. Knowing that medical bills will not derail your finances allows you to focus on building your career, traveling, or supporting your loved ones. Buying young ensures you are secure early, freeing you to live life without the constant worry of unexpected medical costs.
The best time to buy health insurance was yesterday, and the second-best time is today. Waiting until you’re older or until an emergency strikes is a costly mistake. If you’re young, the smart move is to act now—explore your options, compare plans, and secure your future. Your health, finances, and peace of mind will thank you in the years to come.