When you buy a new car, it’s more than just a purchase — it’s an investment filled with excitement and pride. But imagine losing your car to theft or a severe accident within a few years of ownership. Even with standard insurance, you might not recover its full value due to depreciation.

This is where Return to Invoice (RTI) Cover steps in — an essential car insurance add-on that bridges the gap between your car’s current market value and its original purchase price.

Understanding Return to Invoice (RTI) Cover

Return to Invoice (RTI) is an add-on cover available with comprehensive car insurance. It ensures that in case your car is stolen or suffers total loss, you receive the full invoice value of the car — not just the depreciated Insured Declared Value (IDV).

In simpler terms, the insurer compensates you for what you paid when buying the car, including:

• The ex-showroom price

• Road tax

• Registration fees

• Optional accessories, if covered in the invoice

How RTI Cover Works – Example

Let’s understand with a simple scenario:

👉 You recover ₹3 lakh extra because RTI bridges the depreciation gap.

So instead of receiving the depreciated market value, you get the full amount you paid at the time of purchase.

When Can You Claim RTI Cover?

RTI cover can only be used under specific conditions. You can claim it if:

1. 🚗 Your car is stolen and not recovered by the police.

2. 💥 Your car is damaged beyond repair, and the insurer declares it a total loss (repair cost exceeds 75% of IDV).

3. 🔧 The insurer settles the case as a total loss claim after assessment.

📌 RTI cannot be used for minor damages or partial losses.

Who Should Opt for RTI Cover?

RTI cover is most beneficial if you are:

• The owner of a brand-new car (less than 3–5 years old)

• Living in an area with a high risk of theft or accidents

• Paying for your car via a loan or EMI

• Owning a luxury or high-value car where depreciation is significant

💡 Tip: RTI cover is not offered for cars older than five years with most insurers.

Benefits of RTI Cover

Limitations of RTI Cover

While it’s highly valuable, RTI has certain boundaries:

• ❌ Applicable only to cars under 3–5 years old.

• 💸 Adds a small extra premium cost (around 10–15%).

• ⚙️ Valid only in total loss or theft cases, not for repairs.

• 🚫 Usually non-transferable if the car is sold.

RTI vs IDV – Key Differences

RTI vs Zero Depreciation Cover

💡 Pro Tip: Combine RTI and Zero Depreciation covers for complete, all-around protection.

Real-World Case Example

Case: Ramesh bought a Hyundai Creta for ₹14 lakh in 2022. Two years later, it was stolen. His insurer offered ₹10.5 lakh (IDV). But since Ramesh had opted for RTI cover, he received the full ₹14 lakh — including road tax and registration.

Outcome: ₹3.5 lakh more recovered — total peace of mind!

How to Add RTI Cover to Your Policy

Adding RTI is simple and can be done:

1. When buying a new policy, or

2. At renewal, if your car qualifies (within 3–5 years old).

Steps:

• Visit your insurer’s website or app.

• Select “Add-ons” under car insurance.

• Choose Return to Invoice Cover and review the updated premium.

• Complete payment and download the updated policy document.

Leading Insurers Offering RTI Cover in India

Some popular insurers that provide RTI add-ons include:

• HDFC ERGO General Insurance

• ICICI Lombard

• Tata AIG

• Bajaj Allianz

• Digit Insurance

• ACKO

• SBI General Insurance

Always compare benefits, claim processes, and premium differences before buying.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I buy RTI cover for my 6-year-old car?
No, most insurers limit RTI to vehicles less than 3–5 years old due to high depreciation.

2. Is RTI cover mandatory in India?
No, it’s optional — but strongly recommended for new or financed cars.

3. Does RTI cover accessories or modifications?
Only if they are included in the original invoice or declared in the policy.

4. Can RTI be claimed along with Zero Depreciation?
Yes. Both can be claimed together, depending on the nature of the loss.

5. Can I add RTI mid-policy term?
Only during renewal or policy purchase — not mid-term.

Is RTI Cover Worth It?

Absolutely — especially for new car owners.
For a small additional premium, RTI offers complete protection from depreciation and ensures you recover your car’s full value if the unthinkable happens.

In short:

“RTI Cover turns your car insurance into a complete financial safeguard — restoring not just your car’s value, but your peace of mind.”

Final Takeaway

In a world where cars depreciate rapidly and risks are unpredictable, Return to Invoice (RTI) Cover is your safety net. It ensures that even if you lose your vehicle, you don’t lose your hard-earned money.

Before renewing your car insurance, check if RTI is available for your vehicle — it might just be the smartest upgrade you make.