Gap Saver changes
Gap Saver is ending soon - here's what it means for you.
See more helpful articles in Managing an existing policy:
Gap Saver is ending on 13 December 2025
Gap Saver is an add-on feature that helps cover out-of-pocket costs on eligible claims. As of January 2019, this feature was no longer for sale and only available to HBF members who already held the feature.
As a not-for-profit health fund, HBF continuously reviews its products to ensure they are providing value to our 1.2 million members.
Following a recent review and to balance the needs of our membership base, we have made the difficult decision to cease the Gap Saver feature on all products on 13 December 2025.
If you have Gap Saver
You can use your Gap Saver feature as you normally would until 12 December.
If you have any accrued benefits remaining after Gap Saver ends, we’ll deposit that amount into your bank account as a one-off payment. This will happen from 14 December and may take 5-7 business days to process, depending on your bank.
What you need to do
To avoid payment delays and stay informed, check your direct credit details and contact information are up to date. You can do this in the HBF App or myHBF.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still use my Gap Saver benefits?
You can continue to accrue and claim Gap Saver benefits until 12 December on eligible out-of-pocket costs. Log in to the HBF App or myHBF to view your current accrued benefit.
What will happen to my unused Gap Saver benefits?
You’ll receive a one-off payment equal to any unused Gap Saver benefits. This will happen from 14 December and may take 5-7 business days to process, depending on your bank.
To avoid payment delays, check your direct credit details are correct in the HBF App or myHBF to view your current accrued benefit.
How much will I receive and when?
After Gap Saver ends, you’ll receive a letter or email (depending on your communication preference) which will include the final amount that will be paid to you.
Payments will be processed on 14 December and may take 5-7 business days to reach your account, depending on your bank.
Will my premium change?
When Gap Saver ends, your premium will be adjusted. You can see what your new premium will be in the communication we sent to you.
Will this impact any upcoming treatments?
You can still use your Gap Saver benefits on eligible out-of-pocket costs before 13 December.
You'll be responsible for covering any out-of-pocket costs, including excess, from 13 December when Gap Saver ends.
What will happen to my health cover when Gap Saver ends?
There will not be any changes to covered treatments, excesses or co-payments arising from this change.
The same service inclusions and restrictions will also apply, and you won’t have to serve any additional waiting periods if you have already served them under your current policy. After Gap Saver ends, you may notice different out-of-pocket costs.
How will my new premium be calculated?
Premiums are calculated based on the level of cover, Australian Government Rebate and Lifetime Health Cover loading. To find out more, visit understanding your premium.
Do I need to do anything before Gap Saver ends?
How will I know when Gap Saver has ended?
We’ll send you a letter or email (depending on your communication preference) to confirm when Gap Saver has ended.
If you use the HBF App or myHBF, please be aware you’ll no longer see Gap Saver details on your membership.
Will receiving a Gap Saver payment affect my taxable income or health insurance rebate?
The payment you receive for any unused Gap Saver benefits won’t change the health insurance premium that you can claim a rebate on. It is also not taxable income.
If you need advice on filling out your tax statement, we encourage you to talk to your tax agent.
I have Gap Saver, but haven’t received a letter or email
If you haven’t heard from us, please call 133 423. We can update your details and resend the information to you.
I’m thinking about reviewing my health cover, what should I do?
If it’s been a while or your situation has changed and you would like to review your health cover at the same time, we can help. Please call us on 133 423.
I have additional questions or would like to provide feedback, how can I get help?
We’re here to support you through this change and are happy to help with any questions or feedback you might have. See all the ways you can contact us.
Explore our Help Centre
Health insurance explained
Gold, Silver, Bronze and Basic cover explained, what is an excess and more.
Managing an existing policy
Make changes to your policy, order a member card and more.
Claims
When you can start claiming, telehealth and more.