Critical illness cover.
Breathing room when you need it most.
A serious diagnosis changes everything. Critical illness cover can pay a lump sum so you can focus on recovery — not on the bills.
What is critical illness cover?
Critical illness cover is an insurance policy that pays out a one-off, tax-free lump sum if you're diagnosed with one of the serious conditions listed in your policy and your diagnosis meets the insurer's definition.
There are no rules on how you spend it. Many people use the money to clear or reduce a mortgage, replace lost earnings while they recover, adapt their home, or pay for treatment and support that would otherwise be out of reach.
How critical illness can help.
Features vary between insurers. We'll explain exactly what each option includes.
Lump sum on diagnosis
A single payment once a valid claim is accepted, giving you financial freedom at a difficult time.
Wide range of conditions
Policies typically cover common serious illnesses such as certain cancers, heart attacks and strokes — plus many more.
Children's cover
Many plans include a level of cover for your children at no extra cost, so the whole family is protected.
Partial payments
Some insurers pay a smaller amount for less severe conditions, while keeping your main cover in place.
Combine with life cover
Critical illness cover can be arranged on its own or alongside life insurance, depending on your needs.
Support services
Many insurers include extras such as a virtual GP, second medical opinions and counselling.
Who it's for.
- Homeowners with a mortgage or other large debts
- Parents and anyone with people relying on their income
- Self-employed people with no employer sick pay
- Anyone who'd struggle financially during a long recovery
Things to consider
- Each insurer defines conditions differently — comparing definitions matters as much as comparing price.
- Pre-existing conditions may be excluded or affect your premium.
- Being honest and complete on your application is essential to a smooth claim.
That's exactly why advice matters — we'll talk you through the detail.
Get a personalised critical illness quote
Free, no-obligation and tailored to your circumstances.
Getting covered is easy.
Getting the right protection shouldn't be complicated. Here's how we help.
Talk to us
Tell us about you, your family or your business in a free, relaxed conversation — by phone, video or in person.
Get a clear recommendation
We research the options and explain what we recommend, why, and what it costs — in plain English.
Cover in place, and beyond
We handle the paperwork, keep your cover under review and are here to support you if you ever need to claim.
Critical Illness Cover FAQs
How much critical illness cover do I need?
It depends on your outgoings, debts and how long you might need to recover. A common approach is to cover your mortgage or other debts plus a cushion for living costs. We'll work through the numbers with you.
Is the payout taxed?
Payouts from personal critical illness policies are normally paid tax-free. Tax treatment can differ for business-owned policies, so we'll explain how it applies to you.
Which illnesses are covered?
Every insurer publishes its own list and definitions. Most cover the major conditions, and many include dozens more. We'll help you compare the detail rather than just the headline number.
Can I get cover if I have a medical condition?
Often, yes. Depending on the condition, an insurer may offer cover as standard, with an exclusion, or at a higher premium. Speaking to an adviser helps you find insurers more likely to look favourably on your circumstances.
Let's talk about critical illness.
Book a free, no-obligation consultation. We'll explain your options clearly and help you choose with confidence.
Free initial consultation · No obligation · Friendly, plain-English advice
The information on this page is for general guidance and isn't personal advice. All cover is subject to the insurer's terms, conditions, exclusions and underwriting. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change.