Critical illness cover.
A serious diagnosis can affect work, savings and family life. Critical illness insurance can provide a lump sum if you meet the policy's definition of a specified condition.
Friendly advice, tailored to your circumstances. Product terms, underwriting and exclusions apply.
How does this cover work?
Unlike income protection, critical illness policies normally pay a one-off amount when a covered condition meets the insurer's definitions. You may be able to arrange cover alongside life insurance or as a separate policy.
The right amount and type of cover depends on what you want to protect, your existing arrangements and your budget. An adviser can explain which features matter and what a policy may not cover.
Things worth checking
- Check exactly which illnesses and severity levels are covered, along with any survival periods and exclusions.
- Consider how a payment could help with mortgage costs, adaptations, time away from work or family expenses.
- Cover is not designed to pay for every medical diagnosis. Insurer definitions, underwriting and claim requirements matter.
Frequently asked questions.
Does critical illness cover pay for any illness?
No. Only the conditions defined in the policy are covered, often subject to specific severity criteria and exclusions.
Is it the same as income protection?
No. Critical illness cover generally pays a one-off lump sum for covered diagnoses. Income protection can pay a regular amount for qualifying inability to work.
Not sure what to choose?
We can talk through your priorities, existing cover and available options, with no pressure to take out a policy.
Talk to a protection adviser ↗No policy provides cover for every eventuality. The insurer's terms, conditions and exclusions determine the benefits payable.
Related protection options.
Income protection insurance
Your bills don't stop when you're unable to work. Income protection is designed to replace part of your income if illness or injury prevents you working, subject to the policy terms.
Explore coverLife insurance
Help the people who depend on you financially if you die during the policy term. We can explain cover designed around a mortgage, family costs or a longer-term plan.
Explore coverPrivate health insurance
Private medical insurance may offer access to eligible private consultations, diagnostics or treatment for covered conditions, depending on the policy and hospital network.
Explore coverFurther information: MoneyHelper: types of protection insurance ↗ This is general guidance, not a personal recommendation or tax advice.