Unauthorised Debit by Discovery – Premium Taken Before Policy Comm

Unauthorised Debit by Discovery Prior to Medical Aid Commencement

I recently signed up for medical aid cover for my mother through Discovery, which by the way was a tedious process itself. During the application process, the agent confirmed that the policy would commence on 1 April 2026 and that premiums would be billed in arrears, with the first debit order scheduled for 1 May 2026.

After numerous phone calls and approximately 20 email exchanges, the policy was finally confirmed. However, to my shock and frustration, Discovery debited my bank account on 31 March 2026, before the policy commencement date and contrary to the billing arrangement that was explicitly communicated to me.

This debit is unauthorised and unacceptable, particularly given the extensive effort it took to finalise the policy. Consumers rely on the accuracy of information provided by agents when entering into financial agreements, and debiting an account outside of the agreed terms undermines that trust.

I have contacted Discovery to request: • A clear explanation for the premature debit • Immediate reversal of the debit if processed in error • Written confirmation of the correct debit arrangement (premiums billed in arrears with the first debit on 1 May 2026)

If this matter is not urgently resolved, I will have no option but to escalate the complaint to the **** for further investigation.

I trust Discovery will address this matter promptly and remedy the situation without further delay.