Metropolitan [Metropolitan.co.za] is a well-established financial services company in South Africa, offering a range of products including funeral cover, life insurance, and retirement savings plans. The company focuses on providing affordable and flexible options for individuals and families. Whether you need protection for your loved ones or want to plan for retirement, Metropolitan aims to meet everyday financial needs.
Metropolitan provides a range of financial and insurance services to help South Africans plan for the future and manage uncertainty. From funeral cover and life insurance to retirement and savings solutions, their offerings are flexible and accessible. If you’re looking for long-term security or support during difficult times, Metropolitan offers a practical and regulated way to stay prepared. Keep reading to see how their services work and whether they suit your financial goals.
Metropolitan: Quick Overview
Service Type: Insurance and financial products including funeral cover, life cover, retirement, and savings.
Access: Apply online, via WhatsApp, call centre, or through a Metropolitan adviser or branch.
Eligibility: South African citizens or permanent residents aged 18+, with valid ID.
Fees: Monthly premiums based on product type and cover. Fees follow National Credit Act regulations.
Additional Services: Cashback rewards, payment protection, retirement income plans, and multi-member family cover.
Metropolitan Full Review
What Makes Metropolitan Unique?
Metropolitan stands out in South Africa’s insurance sector due to its extensive history and commitment to serving diverse communities. With over 125 years of experience, the company has built a reputation for providing accessible and affordable financial solutions tailored to the unique needs of South Africans. Their approach focuses on understanding the challenges faced by individuals and families, offering products that are both practical and relevant. This deep-rooted presence in the country has allowed this company to develop a strong connection with its clients, ensuring that their offerings remain aligned with the evolving financial landscape.
Another distinguishing feature of them is its emphasis on flexibility and customer-centric services. The company offers a range of insurance products that can be customised to fit individual circumstances, such as choosing between term or whole life cover, and selecting optional benefits like disability or critical illness cover. Additionally, they have streamlined their processes to enhance customer convenience, including quick claims processing and the option to apply for certain products without medical examinations. This focus on adaptability and ease of access demonstrates Metropolitan’s dedication to meeting the diverse needs of its clientele.
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Types of Services Offered by Metropolitan
Metropolitan provides a comprehensive suite of financial services designed to support individuals and families at various stages of life. These services encompass insurance, savings, and investment products, each tailored to address specific financial goals and challenges.
Funeral Cover
Provides financial support to cover burial costs. Plans can include up to 20 family members. Claims are usually paid out quickly.
Life Insurance
Pays a lump sum to your family if you pass away. Cover options include term and whole life policies, with extras like disability or critical illness add-ons.
Health and Critical Illness Cover
Offers cash payouts for hospital stays or upon diagnosis of a serious illness. Can help manage out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Disability Insurance
Gives financial support if you can no longer work due to permanent disability. Helps maintain your standard of living and cover bills.
Retirement Planning
Includes pension plans, annuities, and preservation funds. Helps you save over time for a steady income after you stop working.
Savings and Investment Plans
Offers regular savings plans and lump-sum investment options to grow your money. Suitable for long-term goals like education or home deposits.
Group and Corporate Cover
Includes funeral and life cover for employees or members of community groups. Designed for businesses, stokvels, and societies to provide protection at scale.
Requirements for a Metropolitan Service
To apply for their service, you typically need to provide the following:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Proof of income (e.g., recent payslip or bank statement).
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement).
- Banking details for premium payments and claim payouts.
- Completed application form, which can be obtained online or from one of their financial advisers.
For funeral cover, additional documents may be required when submitting a claim, such as a certified copy of the death certificate and the DHA 1663 form.
Simulation of a Service at Metropolitan
Applying for a service with Metropolitan can be straightforward. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Visit Metropolitan.co.za or contact a financial adviser.
- Choose the service you are interested in (e.g., funeral cover, life insurance).
- Complete the application form with your personal and financial details.
- Submit the required documents as listed above.
- Review the policy terms provided.
- Sign the agreement to finalise your application.
- Begin making premium payments as scheduled.
Eligibility Check
Metropolitan provides a few ways for you to check if you qualify for a specific service. Their online calculators can help you estimate your savings targets, bond affordability, and other financial goals, giving you a clear idea of what may be possible based on your current income and expenses. You can also speak to a financial adviser, either in person or through their contact centre, who can explain the eligibility criteria for different products and help you decide which option fits your needs. For any queries, you can get in touch via their national contact number at 0860 724 724, use the online chat on their website, or visit a branch near you. These resources make it easier to understand your options before you commit to any service.
Who Is Metropolitan Best For?
Metropolitan is well suited for South Africans who:
- Need affordable funeral cover or life insurance to protect their family’s financial wellbeing
- Want to plan ahead with structured savings, retirement, or investment products
- Prefer flexible insurance options that can be tailored to different family sizes and income levels
- Are looking for a trusted financial provider with over a century of local experience
- Value access to personal support through in-person advisers, WhatsApp, or call centre services
Is Metropolitan a Safe and Reliable Option?
Yes. Metropolitan is a licensed and well-established financial services provider in South Africa, authorised and regulated by the relevant financial authorities, including the Prudential Authority and the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). As part of Momentum Metropolitan Holdings, Metropolitan has built a solid reputation for providing insurance and savings products to millions of South Africans for over a century. The company does not issue credit or loans but specialises in life insurance, funeral cover, health cover, disability protection, retirement plans, and savings products designed to meet personal and family financial needs.
This company follows strict protocols to ensure the privacy and security of all client information collected during applications or policy servicing. Personal and financial data is managed securely and is only shared with authorised personnel or service providers where necessary to fulfil contractual or regulatory requirements. Clients provide clear consent before any data is used or processed, which supports a transparent, compliant, and secure environment for engaging with this company’s services.
How Many Services Can I Request from Metropolitan?
You can request multiple services from Metropolitan at the same time, depending on your financial needs and eligibility. For example, you may hold both a funeral cover policy and a retirement savings plan simultaneously. Each service operates independently, but they can be managed together through your Metropolitan profile or with help from a financial adviser. There is no strict limit on the number of products you can take up, provided you meet the criteria for each.
How Metropolitan Creates Personalised Services
Metropolitan offers flexible product options that can be tailored to your specific situation. When applying, you’ll go through a consultation either online or with a financial adviser where your income, family structure, financial responsibilities, and long-term goals are reviewed. Based on this information, the company adjusts cover levels, benefit add-ons, and payment terms to suit your personal circumstances. This approach helps ensure the policy you take out is relevant, affordable, and effective for your needs.
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Service from Metropolitan?
The time it takes to complete a service with Metropolitan depends on the type of product and whether all required documents are submitted correctly. For example, applying for funeral cover or life insurance can take as little as 24 to 72 hours if no medicals or additional checks are required. Claims on funeral policies are often paid out within 24 to 48 hours after all documentation has been received. More complex products like retirement annuities or investment plans might take longer, especially if they involve switching from another provider. Processing delays can occur if documents are missing, incorrectly completed, or if extra verification is needed.
Metropolitan: Overview in Detail
| Name | Metropolitan Funeral Cover |
|---|---|
| Financial Institution | Metropolitan Life (Momentum Metropolitan Holdings) |
| Product | Customisable funeral insurance plan |
| Minimum Age | 18 years |
| Maximum Age | 84 years (for extended family members) |
| Cover Amounts | From R5 000 up to R100 000 for immediate family; Up to R70 000 for parents and extended family |
| Premiums | Starting from R40 per month |
| Waiting Periods | 3 months for natural death (standard cover); 6 months for extended family; immediate for accidental death |
| Medical Exams Required | No |
| Claim Payout Time | Within 4 hours via WhatsApp; up to 48 hours through other methods |
| Additional Benefits | – CashBack: 12.5% of premiums returned after 24 months, then every 36 months – Monthly Essentials: Up to R3,000/month for 6 or 12 months – Repatriation: Transport of deceased within South Africa – Payment Protection: Premiums waived if policyholder dies, retires, or is disabled |
| NCR Accredited | Yes |
| Our Opinion | ✅ Affordable entry-level premiums ✅ Fast claims via WhatsApp ✅ Covers up to 20 family members ⚠️ Waiting periods apply for natural deaths ⚠️ Some complaints about customer service responsiveness |
| User Opinion | ✅ Value for money and fast payouts ⚠️ Mixed feedback on customer support |
How Do I Pay for My Service from Metropolitan?
Metropolitan offers flexible payment options for its services. Most policies allow for monthly debit order payments directly from your bank account. Some products, such as investment plans, may also accept lump-sum payments. You can choose a payment date that suits your financial schedule, making it easier to manage your monthly budget. There may be admin or policy fees included in your monthly premiums, depending on the type of service. If you miss a payment, late payment penalties or lapse in cover can apply, so keeping up with your payment schedule is key to avoiding disruptions in your benefits.
Pros and Cons of Choosing Metropolitan
Pros of Metropolitan
- Established Reputation: With over 125 years in the industry, They have a long-standing presence in South Africa, offering a range of insurance and financial products.
- Comprehensive Product Range: They provide various services, including funeral cover, life insurance, health and critical illness cover, disability insurance, retirement planning, and savings and investment options.
- Flexible Payment Options: Clients can choose from different payment methods and plans, accommodating various financial situations.
- Quick Claims Processing: Valid funeral claims submitted via WhatsApp are paid within 4 hours, and other claims are processed within 24 to 48 hours.
- Customer Service Recognition: Has been recognised for its customer service, topping the South African Customer Satisfaction Index (SAcsi) for funeral and life insurance.
Cons of Metropolitan
- Limited Online Application: While some services can be initiated online, others may require direct contact with a financial adviser or visiting a branch.
- Policy Complexity: Understanding the nuances of different policies and add-ons may require detailed consultation, which could be time-consuming.
- Potential Waiting Periods: Some policies may have waiting periods before benefits become active, depending on the type of cover chosen.
Customer Service
Metropolitan offers support through several channels. You can call 0860 724 724 from Monday to Friday (8 am to 5 pm) or on Saturday (8 am to 12 pm). WhatsApp is also available on the same number, ust send a message starting with “Hi”. For online help, use the chatbot on their website or email. If you prefer face-to-face assistance, branch details are available on their website.
Contact Channels
Phone number:
Office: 0860 724 724
Hours of operation:
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
Postal address:
PO Box 2212, Bellville, 7535
Online Reviews of Metropolitan
Metropolitan has received a mix of feedback from its customers. On platforms like Hellopeter, some clients have expressed dissatisfaction with customer service experiences, citing issues such as delays in claim processing and difficulties in communication. For instance, one reviewer mentioned challenges in getting timely responses regarding a policy claim.
Conversely, other customers have praised this company for its commitment to providing accessible financial solutions and for its efforts in community engagement. The company’s long-standing presence in South Africa and its focus on serving diverse communities have been highlighted as positive aspects.
I really appreciate the efforts that everyone put in resolving our claim. It wasn’t a smooth ride however everything was finalized at last. Team, thank you very much.
Metropolitan is very easy in terms of understanding what you want. They attend the clients on time, they keep their promises, they give various options to pay if you missed payment, everything is smooth and understandable.
I am beyond frustrated with Metropolitan. I have been trying to process an emergency savings withdrawal due to ill health for almost 3 weeks.
I don’t have any policy with you but you have deducted my money without my permission. I never remember talking to any of your consultant never but my money is gone.
Alternatives to Metropolitan
When considering alternatives to Metropolitan, several other South African insurance providers offer comparable services:
Comparison Table
| Company | Key Offerings | Unique Features |
| Metropolitan | Life, funeral, health insurance | Strong community focus, long-standing history |
| Assupol | Life and funeral cover | Tailored products for various income groups |
| Liberty | Life insurance, investments | Emphasis on wealth creation and management |
| AVBOB | Funeral services and insurance | Mutual society model, owned by policyholders |
| Sanlam | Insurance, investment, retirement | Extensive African footprint |
| Old Mutual | Life insurance, savings, investment | Diversified financial services |
History and Background of Metropolitan
Metropolitan’s journey began in 1898 with the establishment of the African Homes Trust, aimed at providing financial solutions to those unable to afford homeownership. Over the years, the company evolved, merging with various entities and expanding its services to include a broad spectrum of insurance and financial products. In 2010, Metropolitan merged with Momentum to form Momentum Metropolitan Holdings, enhancing its capacity to serve a diverse clientele.
The company’s mission is to empower South Africans by offering practical financial advice and insurance solutions tailored to individual needs. Metropolitan envisions a future where every household has access to financial products that enable them to achieve their life goals. This commitment is reflected in their continuous efforts to adapt and innovate in response to the changing financial landscape.
Conclusion
Metropolitan remains a trusted name in the South African financial services space, offering a wide range of insurance, investment, and savings products tailored to meet everyday needs. With over a century of experience, the company continues to serve individuals and families across income levels, focusing on affordability, accessibility, and personal support. Whether you’re looking for funeral cover, life insurance, or retirement planning, Metropolitan provides flexible options supported by in-branch and online services. While some customer service experiences may vary, the company’s track record, product variety, and community focus make it a solid choice for South Africans looking for reliable financial protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for Metropolitan funeral cover online?
Yes, you can start the application process online via their website, or request a call back from a financial adviser.
How long does it take to get a funeral claim paid?
If all required documents are submitted, valid funeral claims can be paid out within 24 to 48 hours, and as quickly as 4 hours via WhatsApp.
Do I need a medical exam to apply for life insurance?
Not always. Some policies may require a medical assessment, but many can be issued based on a health questionnaire only.
What happens if I miss a payment on my policy?
Missing a payment may result in a grace period, after which your cover could lapse. It’s best to contact Metropolitan to make arrangements if you’re behind.
Can I cancel my policy at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your policy by contacting them. However, cancellation terms vary depending on the type of policy, so check the specific conditions first.
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