Learn how the Dependants’ Protection Scheme (DPS) provided a crucial lifeline to a Singaporean family after a tragic loss. Discover how affordable term insurance using Medisave can protect your loved ones.
(Story Begins)
I’ve always believed that my role as a financial consultant extends beyond mere numbers and policies. It’s about building relationships and being there for my clients during life’s most challenging moments. This belief was profoundly reinforced through my experience with Sarah and David (not their real names), clients who became more like friends over the past 15 years.
I first met Sarah through a referral from a primary school classmate. Sarah, then 33, was a hardworking hawker helper, and her husband, David, 43, was a freelancer, setting up phone lines for a local telco company. They were raising two young boys, aged 5 and 11 at the time. Like many families, they were concerned about medical coverage and saving for the future, but their budget was limited.
When I met Sarah and David, their limited budget was a major concern. They needed a financial safety net, but traditional insurance options seemed out of reach. As we discussed their goals and concerns, it became clear that their primary need was affordable financial protection, especially in the event of an unforeseen tragedy. They needed a plan that wouldn’t strain their finances but would provide essential coverage if something happened to either of them.
Having understood their needs, I introduced them to the Dependants’ Protection Scheme (DPS). DPS is a national term insurance scheme administered by the CPF Board that offers affordable protection for families in Singapore. It is designed to provide a basic level of financial support to insured members and their families in the event of death, terminal illness, or total permanent disability.
Here’s why DPS was the right fit for them:
For just around $40+ per year, paid through their Medisave, David was covered under the DPS. This meant that if the unthinkable happened, Sarah and their children would receive a lump sum payout to help them cope financially. David was already aware that he was a Hepatitis B carrier, so we knew that having some form of protection was crucial.
Over the years, I stayed in touch with Sarah and David, always just a phone call away. Sarah, who isn’t fluent in English, often faced challenges when dealing with banks. I was happy to assist her, bridging the communication gap and ensuring her needs were met.
Then, in February of 2024, their world turned upside down. During a routine annual follow-up for his Hepatitis B, David, at the age of 58, received a devastating diagnosis: stage 4 liver cancer. The illness progressed with shocking speed.
The news hit us hard. I immediately reached out to Sarah, offering my support not just as a financial consultant but as a friend. During this incredibly challenging time, my role extended beyond policy details. I helped Sarah navigate the complexities of the situation, providing emotional support and practical assistance whenever she needed it.
Within four months, despite a brave fight, David passed away. The grief was immense, and I did my best to support Sarah emotionally during this incredibly difficult time. Thankfully, David’s eldest son, now 26, was able to handle the DPS claim process.
The $70,000 payout from the DPS provided a much-needed lifeline for Sarah and her younger son, who is still in polytechnic. This sum offered a financial cushion, allowing them to grieve without the immediate burden of financial ruin.
“Really thanks to your help for asking us to put in place DPS coverage,” Sarah expressed to me, her voice filled with gratitude. Her words were particularly poignant because she had recently witnessed the financial hardship faced by her brother-in-law’s family after he passed away without DPS coverage. The contrast was stark. While the $70,000 payout could support Sarah’s family for about two years, based on their annual income of around $30,000, her brother-in-law’s family was left grappling with a significant financial gap on top of their grief, with the loss of their sole breadwinner.
This experience with Sarah and David reaffirmed my belief that we can do so much more for people than just getting them protection. Being there for them emotionally, especially when they need it most, is an integral part of being a financial consultant – and, more importantly, a fellow human being. “Think as a human being, this is what we need to do, not as advisors,” I always say. “I always believe that there is a reason why we cross each other’s path.”
David’s passing was a heartbreaking reminder that life is unpredictable. I urge everyone to take the time to review their current insurance plans to ensure they have proper coverage. The DPS, with its affordability and accessibility through Medisave, can be a crucial safety net, providing much-needed financial support during life’s most challenging moments. It certainly made a world of difference for Sarah and her family.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact me today for a free consultation to discuss how the Dependants’ Protection Scheme (DPS) can protect your family. Let’s work together to create a secure financial future for your loved ones.
Important: The information and opinions in this article are for general information purposes only. They should not be relied on as professional financial advice. Readers should seek independent financial advice that is customised to their specific financial objectives, situations & needs. This advertisement or publication has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
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