Personal protection

Critical Illness Cover

Critical Illness Cover pays a tax-free lump sum if you're diagnosed with a specified serious illness covered by the policy, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke, giving you breathing space to focus on recovery rather than finances.

Key benefits

Why people choose Critical Illness Cover

  • Provides financial support during recovery
  • Helps cover medical costs, mortgage payments, and everyday expenses
  • Reduces financial stress while you focus on your health
  • Can be added alongside Life Insurance for enhanced protection

What's typically included

What Critical Illness Cover covers

  • A tax-free lump sum on diagnosis of an illness defined and listed in the policy
  • Common conditions covered include cancer, heart attack, and stroke, subject to policy definitions
  • Some policies include partial payments for less severe or earlier-stage conditions
  • Can be arranged as a standalone policy or combined with Life Insurance

Important to know

What's not usually covered

Every policy is different, so exact exclusions depend on the insurer and your individual circumstances. Common exclusions to be aware of include:

  • Only conditions specifically defined in the policy wording are covered, not all serious illnesses
  • Conditions related to non-disclosed pre-existing health issues are typically excluded
  • Some policies exclude claims within an initial qualifying period after the policy starts
  • Definitions of each condition, and the severity required to trigger a payout, vary between insurers

Common questions

Critical Illness Cover FAQs

Quick answers to the things people ask us most. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch and we'll be happy to help.

Still have a question?

Our Blackburn-based advisers are happy to talk it through, with no obligation.

What illnesses are covered by Critical Illness Cover?

Policies list specific defined conditions, commonly including cancer, heart attack, and stroke, along with a wider range of other serious illnesses. The exact list and definitions vary by insurer, so it is worth comparing policy wording carefully.

Can I combine Critical Illness Cover with Life Insurance?

Yes, many people combine the two so that a claim can be made either on death or on diagnosis of a critical illness, providing broader protection under one plan.

Does Critical Illness Cover pay out more than once?

Most standard policies pay out once and then end. Some insurers offer options for additional or partial payments for certain conditions; an adviser can explain what's available.

Is Critical Illness Cover expensive?

The cost depends on your age, health, cover amount, and the conditions included. Getting a personalised quote is the best way to understand what it would cost for your circumstances.

Want to talk through Critical Illness Cover?

Tell us what matters to you and one of our advisers will help you explore your options.

  • Free, no-obligation advice
  • Authorised & regulated by the FCA
  • Friendly Blackburn-based advisers

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