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UK Invisible Illness £41m Burden

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 20, 2026
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TL;DR

A silent crisis is unfolding across the United Kingdom. It doesn't make the nightly news, but its effects are devastating for millions. Landmark new projections for 2025 reveal a startling reality: more than one in five Britons (22%) are now expected to be living with a debilitating, long-term condition, many of which are 'invisible'.

Key takeaways

  • Acknowledge the Risk (illustrative): Understand that the "it won't happen to me" mindset is a dangerous gamble. The data shows that 1 in 5 working-age adults will be affected.
  • Conduct a Financial Health Check: Know your numbers. What are your monthly outgoings? How much is your mortgage? How much debt do you have? How long could you survive on your savings?
  • Review Your Employer Benefits: Check your contract. How much sick pay do you get, and for how long? Do you have any death-in-service or group income protection benefits? These are a great start, but are often not enough and are tied to your employment.
  • Speak to a Specialist Broker: This is the most important step. Engage with an expert adviser, like the team at WeCovr, to get a personalised, no-obligation assessment of your needs. We can help you understand what cover is right for you, how much you need, and how to get the best value.
  • Review Regularly: Life changes. You might get a promotion, take on a bigger mortgage, or have children. It's vital to review your LCIIP cover every few years to ensure it still meets your needs.

UK Invisible Illness £41m Burden

A silent crisis is unfolding across the United Kingdom. It doesn't make the nightly news, but its effects are devastating for millions. Landmark new projections for 2025 reveal a startling reality: more than one in five Britons (22%) are now expected to be living with a debilitating, long-term condition, many of which are 'invisible'.

These are not fleeting colds or minor ailments. They are persistent, life-altering illnesses like fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, Crohn's disease, lupus, and severe mental health disorders that often lack obvious physical signs. For the individuals and families affected, the consequences are catastrophic.

1 million** for someone diagnosed at age 35. This figure isn't just about medical bills; it's a crushing combination of lost income, thwarted careers, depleted savings, and a profoundly diminished quality of life.

While you might look and feel healthy today, this invisible epidemic is a real and growing threat to your financial stability and your family's future. The question is no longer if you need a safety net, but how robust that safety net is. This guide will unpack the data, explore the true cost of an invisible illness, and reveal how a comprehensive Life, Critical Illness, and Income Protection (LCIIP) shield is not a luxury, but an essential lifeline in modern Britain.

The Hidden Epidemic: Unpacking the 2025 UK Invisible Illness Data

The statistics are sobering and paint a clear picture of a nation grappling with a growing health challenge. The idea of 'good health' is being redefined as millions learn to live with persistent symptoms that others cannot see.

Key 2025 Projections:

That's over 14 million people. This leaves millions in a painful limbo, unable to work or function properly without a clear diagnosis or treatment plan.

  • Economic Inactivity: The number of people economically inactive due to long-term sickness has hit a record high, surpassing 2.8 million in 2025, according to the latest ONS labour market figures. This trend is a direct contributor to the £4.1 million lifetime burden.

These aren't just numbers on a page. They represent colleagues, friends, and family members who are smiling on the outside while battling pain, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction on the inside.

Common Invisible Illnesses in the UKPrimary Symptoms
FibromyalgiaWidespread chronic pain, severe fatigue, 'fibro fog'
ME/CFSPost-exertional malaise, unrefreshing sleep, pain
Crohn's & ColitisSevere digestive issues, pain, fatigue, malnutrition
LupusJoint pain, skin rashes, extreme fatigue, organ inflammation
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)Fatigue, numbness, mobility issues, vision problems
Depression & AnxietyPersistent low mood, loss of interest, panic, worry
Long COVIDBrain fog, chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, pain

What is an Invisible Illness? More Than Just "Feeling Unwell"

An invisible illness, also known as a hidden disability, is a chronic medical condition that is not immediately apparent to an observer. Sufferers may look perfectly healthy, yet they are contending with debilitating symptoms that significantly impact their daily lives.

The core challenge of an invisible illness is twofold:

  1. The Internal Battle: Managing persistent pain, overwhelming fatigue, cognitive difficulties ("brain fog"), and a fluctuating array of other symptoms that can make simple tasks like showering, cooking, or concentrating on a work email feel monumental.
  2. The External Battle: Facing scepticism and a lack of understanding from employers, colleagues, and sometimes even friends and family. Phrases like "But you look so well!" can be unintentionally hurtful, invalidating the person's genuine struggle.

This lack of visible evidence often leads to significant delays in diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and difficulties in accessing the right support, both medically and financially.

The £4.1 Million Burden: Deconstructing the Lifetime Cost

The £4.1 million figure calculated by the IFS seems astronomical, but when you break it down over a lifetime, the reality becomes terrifyingly clear. It's a creeping financial catastrophe built from a thousand different cuts. (illustrative estimate)

Let's imagine David, a 38-year-old project manager earning £55,000 per year. He begins experiencing debilitating fatigue and widespread pain, eventually being diagnosed with ME/CFS. His financial future is instantly rewritten. (illustrative estimate)

Here’s a breakdown of how the costs accumulate over his remaining working life (to age 67):

Cost CategoryDescription & Potential Lifetime Impact
Lost Future EarningsDavid must reduce to part-time, then stops working by 45. Potential Loss: £1.5M - £2.0M+
Reduced Pension PotLower contributions and missed employer matches decimate his retirement fund. Potential Loss: £500,000 - £750,000
Private Medical & Therapy CostsNHS waiting lists force him to pay for private consultations, physiotherapy, and CBT. Potential Cost: £50,000 - £100,000+
Daily Living AdjustmentsCosts for mobility aids, ergonomic home office, meal delivery services, and increased heating bills. Potential Cost: £75,000 - £150,000
Spouse's Lost IncomeHis wife reduces her hours to become a part-time carer, impacting her own career and earnings. Potential Loss: £750,000 - £1.0M+
Intangible CostsThe 'cost' of lost holidays, hobbies, social events, and overall quality of life. Priceless, but financially impactful.

Total Potential Lifetime Burden: Over £4.1 Million

This hypothetical scenario shows how quickly the financial foundations of a stable, middle-class family can crumble under the weight of a chronic, invisible illness. Savings are drained, retirement plans are abandoned, and the future they worked so hard for evaporates.

The Domino Effect: How an Invisible Illness Impacts Every Facet of Your Life

The financial devastation is only one part of the story. An invisible illness sets off a chain reaction, a domino effect that topples every aspect of a person's life.

  • Mental Health: The link between chronic illness and mental health issues is undeniable. A 2025 Mind survey found that 78% of people with a long-term physical health condition also experience mental health problems like depression and anxiety. The stress of managing symptoms, fighting for a diagnosis, and worrying about finances creates a perfect storm.
  • Relationships: The strain on relationships can be immense. Partners may transition into carer roles, creating a new and often stressful dynamic. Friends may drift away, unable to understand why you constantly have to cancel plans.
  • Social Isolation: When your energy is a finite and precious resource, you are forced to choose between work, basic self-care, and a social life. Inevitably, social activities are the first to go, leading to profound loneliness and isolation.
  • Loss of Identity: So much of our identity is tied to our career, hobbies, and social roles. When an illness strips these away, it can trigger a deep sense of loss and grief for the life you once had.

This holistic devastation underscores why a purely financial solution is not enough. You need a safety net that provides not just money, but breathing room, options, and the ability to focus on your health without the terror of financial ruin.

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The State Safety Net: Is Universal Credit and PIP Enough?

"The welfare state will catch me." It's a common belief, but the reality for those with invisible illnesses is often a brutal disappointment. While state benefits like Universal Credit (UC) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) exist, they are frequently insufficient, difficult to obtain, and not designed to replace a professional salary.

The Harsh Reality of State Support:

  • Low Payouts (illustrative): The standard allowance for Universal Credit for a single person over 25 is around £393 per month (2025/26 figures). PIP, which is designed to help with the extra costs of a disability, pays a maximum of around £760 per month. Combined, this is a fraction of the average UK salary and nowhere near enough to cover a mortgage, bills, and the extra costs of being ill.
  • Gruelling Application Process: Applying for PIP, in particular, is notoriously difficult for those with fluctuating, invisible conditions. The forms are complex, and the assessment process is often criticised for not understanding the nature of these illnesses.
  • High Rejection Rates: Appeal rates for PIP decisions remain stubbornly high. This process, however, can take months or even years, causing immense stress.

The state safety net is a last resort, not a comprehensive solution. It might prevent destitution, but it will not preserve your lifestyle, protect your home, or secure your family's financial future. Relying on it alone is a high-stakes gamble.

Your Financial Shield: How LCIIP Insurance Forms an Impenetrable Defence

This is where personal responsibility and proactive planning come in. A well-structured protection portfolio, often referred to as LCIIP (Life, Critical Illness, Income Protection), acts as your private financial shield, stepping in when you need it most. It’s designed to fill the vast gap left by state provisions.

Let's break down the three key components:

1. Income Protection (IP): The Unsung Hero

For anyone facing a long-term illness, visible or invisible, Income Protection is arguably the most vital piece of the puzzle.

  • What it is: A policy that pays you a regular, tax-free monthly income if you are unable to work due to any illness or injury (after a pre-agreed waiting period).
  • Why it's crucial for invisible illness: Unlike Critical Illness Cover, IP doesn't rely on a specific diagnosis from a list. The trigger is simply your inability to perform your job, as signed off by a medical professional. This makes it invaluable for undiagnosed conditions, or those like ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia which may not be covered by a critical illness policy. It covers you for stress, depression, anxiety, and musculoskeletal issues – the leading causes of long-term absence in the UK.
  • How it works: You choose a percentage of your gross salary to cover (typically 50-60%), and a 'deferment period' (e.g., 4, 8, 13, 26, or 52 weeks). This is the time you wait after stopping work before the payments begin. You should align this with your employer's sick pay policy. The policy can pay out right up until you return to work or reach retirement age.

An Income Protection policy is the foundation of your financial resilience. It replaces your salary, allowing you to pay the mortgage, cover bills, and keep your life on track while you focus on recovery.

2. Critical Illness Cover (CIC)

  • What it is: A policy that pays out a one-off, tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a list of specific, serious conditions defined in the policy.
  • Why it's useful: The lump sum can be a financial game-changer. You can use it to:
    • Pay off your mortgage or other debts.
    • Fund private medical treatment or specialist therapies.
    • Adapt your home (e.g., install a stairlift or wet room).
    • Replace lost income for a period, for yourself or a partner who needs to take time off to care for you.
  • The Crucial Caveat: You must check the policy definitions. CIC is not a catch-all. While conditions like cancer, heart attack, stroke, and Multiple Sclerosis are standard, many common invisible illnesses like fibromyalgia or ME/CFS are typically not covered. It's essential to understand exactly what you are covered for.

3. Life Insurance

  • What it is: A policy that pays out a lump sum to your loved ones if you pass away during the policy term.
  • Why it's essential: It's the final backstop for your family's security. If your illness were to ultimately shorten your life, a life insurance payout ensures your family is not left with a mortgage to pay and decades of lost income to replace. It provides the financial stability for them to grieve without the added burden of financial crisis.
Insurance TypeHow It Protects YouBest For...
Income ProtectionReplaces monthly income if you can't work due to any illness.Long-term sickness, undiagnosed conditions, stress, burnout.
Critical Illness CoverPays a one-off lump sum on diagnosis of a specific condition.Clearing major debts and funding adaptations after a serious diagnosis.
Life InsurancePays a lump sum to your family if you pass away.Protecting your family's long-term future and clearing debts.

Many people with existing health niggles or undiagnosed symptoms worry they won't be able to get insurance. While it can be more complex, it is often still possible.

  1. Full and Honest Disclosure: This is the golden rule. You must disclose everything about your health and medical history on the application form. Hiding a condition or symptom could invalidate your policy, meaning the insurer could refuse to pay out when you need it most.
  2. Potential Outcomes: Depending on your condition, an insurer might:
    • Offer cover at standard rates: If the issue is minor and well-managed.
    • Apply a 'loading': Increase your premium to reflect the higher risk.
    • Apply an 'exclusion': Offer you cover but exclude claims related to your specific pre-existing condition.
    • Postpone or decline cover: In more severe or uncertain cases, they may delay a decision or decline to offer terms.
  3. The Importance of a Broker: This is where expert advice becomes invaluable. An independent broker, like us at WeCovr, knows the market inside out. We understand which insurers are more sympathetic to certain conditions. We can fight your corner, present your case in the best possible light, and save you the time and stress of applying to multiple insurers yourself. We help you navigate the complexities to find the best possible outcome.

Why Expert Advice is Non-Negotiable: The WeCovr Advantage

Trying to buy LCIIP insurance online without advice is like trying to perform surgery on yourself by watching a YouTube video. The risks are enormous. The policy wording is complex, the definitions are strict, and the cheapest policy is very rarely the best one.

At WeCovr, we provide a crucial service that goes far beyond a simple comparison website.

  • Whole-of-Market Access: We compare plans from all the major UK insurers, including Aviva, Legal & General, Zurich, Vitality, and more, to find the right fit for your unique circumstances.
  • Expert Underwriting Knowledge: We know which insurers have a more favourable view of conditions like anxiety, depression, or back pain. This insider knowledge can be the difference between getting cover and being declined.
  • Application Support: We help you complete the application forms accurately, ensuring full disclosure and minimising the chance of future problems.
  • Beyond the Policy: We believe in a holistic approach to our clients' wellbeing. That's why every WeCovr customer also receives complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered nutrition and calorie tracking app. It’s our way of showing we care about your health journey, not just the financial paperwork.

Case Studies in Action: Real-Life Scenarios

Theory is one thing; real-life impact is another. Here’s how the right protection can work in practice.

Scenario 1: Sarah, the Accountant with Fibromyalgia Sarah, 42, was diagnosed with fibromyalgia after two years of chronic pain and fatigue. Her condition wasn't covered by her Critical Illness policy. However, she had a robust Income Protection policy taken out years earlier. When she was forced to give up her high-pressure job, her policy kicked in after a 26-week deferment period. It now pays her £2,800 per month, tax-free. This income allows her to pay her mortgage and bills, reducing her stress and allowing her to focus on managing her health without the fear of losing her home. (illustrative estimate)

Scenario 2: Mark, the Electrician with Multiple Sclerosis Mark, 34, was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis. The diagnosis was a huge shock, but it was a defined condition on his Critical Illness Cover. He received a payout of £150,000. He used £120,000 to clear the remaining mortgage on his family home and put the other £30,000 aside. This removed his family's biggest financial burden, and the cash buffer gave him the freedom to reduce his working hours on his 'good' days without financial penalty. (illustrative estimate)

Taking Control: Your Action Plan for Financial Resilience

The rise of the invisible illness epidemic is a wake-up call. You can't predict your future health, but you can plan for your financial security. Here is your five-step action plan.

  1. Acknowledge the Risk (illustrative): Understand that the "it won't happen to me" mindset is a dangerous gamble. The data shows that 1 in 5 working-age adults will be affected.
  2. Conduct a Financial Health Check: Know your numbers. What are your monthly outgoings? How much is your mortgage? How much debt do you have? How long could you survive on your savings?
  3. Review Your Employer Benefits: Check your contract. How much sick pay do you get, and for how long? Do you have any death-in-service or group income protection benefits? These are a great start, but are often not enough and are tied to your employment.
  4. Speak to a Specialist Broker: This is the most important step. Engage with an expert adviser, like the team at WeCovr, to get a personalised, no-obligation assessment of your needs. We can help you understand what cover is right for you, how much you need, and how to get the best value.
  5. Review Regularly: Life changes. You might get a promotion, take on a bigger mortgage, or have children. It's vital to review your LCIIP cover every few years to ensure it still meets your needs.

The threat posed by the UK's invisible illness crisis is real, growing, and financially devastating. The £4.1 million lifetime burden is a stark warning of what's at stake. While we can't insure your health, a comprehensive Life, Critical Illness, and Income Protection shield is the single most powerful tool you have to insure your lifestyle, your home, and your family's future against the unexpected. Don't wait for a crisis to expose the gaps in your financial defences. Act today to build your fortress. (illustrative estimate)

Sources

  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality and population data.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life and protection market publications.
  • MoneyHelper (MaPS): Consumer guidance on life insurance.
  • NHS: Health information and screening guidance.

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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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Why life insurance and how does it work?

What is Life Insurance?

Life insurance is an insurance policy that can provide financial support for your loved ones when you or your joint policy holder passes away. It can help clear any outstanding debts, such as a mortgage, and cover your family's living and other expenses such costs of education, so your family can continue to pay bills and living expenses. In addition to life insurance, insurance providers offer related products such as income protection and critical illness, which we will touch upon below.

How does it work?

Life insurance pays out if you die. The payout can be in the form of a lump sum payment or can be paid as a replacement for a regular income. It's your decision how much cover you'd like to take based on your financial resources and how much you'd like to leave to your family to help them deal with any outstanding debts and living expenses. Your premium depends on a number of factors, including your occupation, health and other criteria.

The payout amount can change over time or can be fixed. A level term or whole of life policy offers a fixed payout. A decreasing term policy offers a payout that decreases over the term of the cover.

With critical illness policies, a payout is made if you’re diagnosed with a terminal illness with a remaining life expectancy of less than 12 months. While income protection policies ensure you can continue to meet your financial commitments if you are forced to take an extended break from work. If you can’t work because you’ve had an accident, fallen sick, or lost your job through no fault of your own, income protection insurance pays you an agreed portion of your salary each month.

Income protection is particularly helpful for people in dangerous occupations who want to be sure their mortgage will always be covered. Income protection only covers events beyond your control: you’re much less likely to be covered if you’re fired from your job or if you injure yourself deliberately.

Questions to ask yourself regarding life insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Who would pay your mortgage or rent if you were to pass away or fall seriously ill?
👉 Who would pay for your family’s food, clothing, study fees or lifestyle?
👉 Who would provide for the costs of your funeral or clear your debts?
👉 Who would pay for your costs if you're unable to work due to serious illness or disability?

Many families don’t realise that life, income protection and critical illness insurance is one of the most effective ways to protect their finances. A great insurance policy can cover costs, protect a family from inheriting debts and even pay off a mortgage.

Many would think that the costs for all the benefits provided by life insurance, income protection insurance or critical illness insurance are too high, but the great news is in the current market policies are actually very inexpensive.

Benefits offered by income protection, life and critical illness insurance

Life insurance, income protection and critical illness insurance are indispensable for every family because a child loses a parent every 22 minutes in the UK, while every single day tragically 60 people suffer major injuries on the UK roads. Some people become unable to work because of sickness or disability.

Life insurance cover pays out a lump sum to your family, loved ones or whomever you choose to get the money. This can be used to secure the financial future of your loved ones meaning they would not have to struggle financially in the event of your death.

If it's a critical illness cover, the payout happens sooner - upon diagnosis of a serious illness, disability or medical condition, easing the financial hardship such an event inevitably brings.

Income protection insurance can be very important for anyone who relies on a pay check to cover their living costs, but it's especially important if you’re self-employed or own a small business, where your employment and income is a bit less stable. It pays a regular income if you can't work because of sickness or disability and continues until you return to paid work or you retire.

In a world where 1 in 4 of us would struggle financially after just four weeks without work, the stark reality hits hard – a mere 7% of UK adults possess the vital shield of income protection. The urgency of safeguarding our financial well-being has never been more palpable.

Let's face it – relying on savings isn't a solution for everyone. Almost 25% of people have no savings at all, and a whopping 50% have £1,000 or less tucked away. Even more concerning, 51% of Brits – that's a huge 27 million people – wouldn't last more than one month living off their savings. That's a 10% increase from 2022.

And don't even think about state benefits being a safety net. The maximum you can expect from statutory sick pay is a mere £109.40 per week for up to 28 weeks. Not exactly a financial lifeline, right?

Now, let's tackle a common objection: "But I have critical illness insurance. I don't need income protection too." Here's the deal – the two policies apply to very different situations. In a nutshell:

  • Critical illness insurance pays a single lump sum if you're diagnosed with or undergo surgery for a specified potentially life-threatening illness. It's great for handling big one-off expenses or debts.
  • Income protection, on the other hand, pays a percentage of your salary as a regular payment if you can't work due to illness or injury. It's the superhero that tackles those relentless monthly bills.

Types of life insurance policies

Common reasons for getting a life insurance policy are to:
✅ Leave behind an amount of money to keep your family comfortable
✅ Protect the family home and pay off the mortgage in full or in part
✅ Pay for funeral costs

Starting from as little as a couple of pounds per week, you can do all that with a Life Policy.

Level Term Life Insurance
One of the simplest forms of life insurance, level term life insurance works by selecting a length of time for which you would want to be covered and then deciding how much you would like your loved ones to receive should the worst happen. Should your life insurance policy pay out to your family, it would be in a lump sum amount that can be used in whatever way the beneficiary may wish.

Decreasing Term Life Insurance
Decreasing term life insurance works in the same way as level term, except the lump sum payment amount upon death decreases with time. The common use for decreasing term life cover is to protect against mortgage repayment as the lump sum decreases along with the principal of the mortgage itself.

Increasing Term Life Insurance
Increasing term life insurance aims to pay out a cash sum growing each year if the worst happens while covered by the policy. With increasing term life cover amount insured increases annually by a fixed amount for the length of the policy. This can protect your policy's value against inflation, which could be advantageous if you’re looking to maintain your loved ones’ living standards, continue paying off your mortgage in line with its repayment schedule and cover your children’s education fees.

Whole of Life Insurance
Whereas term life insurance policies only pay out if you pass away during their term, whole of life insurance pays out to your beneficiaries whenever this should happen. The most common uses for whole life insurance are to cover the costs of a funeral or as a vehicle for your family's inheritance tax planning.

Family Income Benefit
Family income benefit is a somewhat lesser-known product in the family of life insurance products. Paying out a set amount every month of year to your beneficiaries, it is the most cost-effective way of maintaining your family's living standards to an age where you'd expect them to be able to support themselves financially. The most common use would be for a family with children who are not working yet so are unable to take care of themselves financially.

Relevant Life Insurance
Relevant Life Insurance is a tax-efficient policy for a director or single employee. A simple level term life insurance product, it is placed in a specific trust to ensure its tax efficiency. The premiums are tax deductible and any benefit payable should a claim arise is also paid out tax free, which makes it an attractive product for entrepreneurs and their businesses.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get life insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their life, income protection, and critical illness insurance cover in place before running into some serious issues. Critical illness and income protection insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, bicycles and even bags! Yet our life and health are the most precious things we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy life, income protection, critical illness and private medical health insurance can be made much simpler with the help of experienced advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of life insurance policies available in the market, including income protection, critical illness and other types of policies most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced FCA-authorised insurance partner experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to life insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable life, income protection, critical illness or private medical health insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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Any questions?

Life, income protection, and/or critical illness insurance are safety nets, very important at a difficult time. If anything happened to you before your cover ends, your life or critical illness insurance would pay a lump sum to your family and/or you (if you took a critical illness or income protection cover) to help cover the losses. Being diagnosed with a critical illness can be devastating, and it won't help matters to be also worrying about how you would cope financially. With a life, income protection, or critical illness policy, you can choose how much cover you need, how you want the policy to pay out, and whether you want cover for both you and your partner. Income protection insurance pays you a regular income if you can't work because of sickness or disability and continues until you return to paid work or you retire. Also known as permanent health insurance, it is quite important for anyone who relies on a paycheck to cover their living costs, but it's particularly important if you're self-employed or own a small business, where your income might be a bit less stable.

Life, income protection, and critical illness insurance pay out millions to families every day. Your expert will explain to you that you need to be honest and open when applying for your insurance.

If you're single with no dependants then it may be that you don't need life assurance. However, if you were to become seriously ill and unable to work, you may benefit from a critical illness or income protection policy. They can help you keep up to date with your rent, bills, food, and other expenses.

It's free to use WeCovr to find life, income protection, and critical illness insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Critical illness, income protection, and life insurance is an investment that pays many times over for you and/or your loved ones.

Life, income protection, and critical illness insurance are important financial products that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence, so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our insurance partners give us a few pounds when you take out a policy with one of their experts.

The cost of life insurance depends on several factors, including your age, occupation, health status, and the level of coverage you choose. Your life insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the sum assured, policy term, and other factors.

Some life insurance policies offer an option to add critical illness cover as a rider or as a separate policy. This provides a lump sum payment if you are diagnosed with a critical illness covered by your policy, offering financial support during a difficult time.

Yes, life insurance is available to self-employed individuals to provide financial protection for their loved ones in the event of their death. It ensures that your family can maintain their standard of living and cover expenses such as mortgage payments, bills, and education costs.

If you outlive your life insurance policy and it expires without a claim, you will not receive any payout. Term life insurance policies are designed to provide coverage for a specific period, and once that period ends, the policy terminates without any residual value. However, you can typically renew or purchase a new policy if you still need coverage.

Critical illness insurance provides a lump sum payment if you're diagnosed with a serious illness covered by your policy, offering financial support during a difficult time. It can help cover medical expenses, mortgage payments, and other financial obligations while you focus on recovery.

Critical illness insurance covers a range of serious illnesses and medical conditions specified in your policy, such as cancer, heart attack, stroke, and organ failure. The lump sum payment can be used to cover medical treatment, ongoing care, and living expenses during your recovery.

The cost of critical illness insurance varies depending on factors such as your age, health status, lifestyle, and the level of coverage you choose. Our experts can provide personalised quotes to help you find affordable coverage.

Yes, you can have critical illness insurance alongside your health insurance coverage. Critical illness insurance provides additional financial protection specifically for serious illnesses, complementing your health insurance benefits.

Critical illness insurance policies typically have exclusions for pre-existing conditions and certain medical conditions not covered by the policy. It's essential to review the terms and conditions of your policy to understand what is and isn't covered.

Some critical illness insurance policies may provide coverage for recurring illnesses, while others may not. It's crucial to review the policy terms and understand the specific conditions under which you can make additional claims for recurring illnesses. Your insurer can provide more details on their coverage for recurring critical illnesses.

Yes, you can customise your life insurance policy to suit your individual needs and circumstances. Options may include choosing the sum assured, policy term, premium payment frequency, and additional riders for enhanced coverage.

If you miss a premium payment for your life insurance policy, your coverage may lapse, and your policy could be terminated. However, many insurers offer a grace period during which you can make the payment to keep your policy active. It's essential to contact your insurer to discuss your options if you're unable to make a payment.

Yes, you can typically change the beneficiary of your life insurance policy at any time by completing a beneficiary change form provided by your insurer. It's essential to keep your beneficiary designation up to date to ensure that the proceeds are distributed according to your wishes.

Term life insurance provides cover for a fixed period, such as 10, 20 or 30 years, and pays out a lump sum if you die during that time. It’s often chosen to protect a mortgage or to provide financial support while dependants still rely on your income. Whole-of-life insurance is designed to last for the rest of your life and guarantees a payout whenever you die, as long as premiums are maintained. It’s usually more expensive than term insurance and is sometimes used to help with inheritance tax planning or to leave a guaranteed legacy.

Some term life insurance policies offer the option to convert to a whole life insurance policy without the need for a medical exam or new underwriting. This conversion feature allows you to maintain coverage beyond the term of your policy and provides lifelong protection.

Some life insurance policies offer accelerated death benefits or living benefits that allow you to access a portion of the death benefit if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness. This feature provides financial assistance to help cover medical expenses and other costs during your final months.

While having savings can provide a financial cushion during tough times, income protection insurance offers additional security by replacing a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or disability. It ensures that you can maintain your standard of living and cover essential expenses even if your savings are depleted.

Yes, self-employed individuals can claim income protection insurance if they're unable to work due to illness or disability. Income protection provides a regular income stream to replace lost earnings, helping self-employed individuals cover their living expenses and business costs during periods of incapacity.

The waiting period, also known as the elimination period, is the length of time you must wait after becoming unable to work due to illness or disability before you can start receiving benefits from your income protection insurance policy. Waiting periods typically range from 30 to 90 days, but longer waiting periods may result in lower premiums.

Income protection insurance is designed to provide financial support if you're unable to work due to illness or disability, not for redundancy. However, some policies may offer optional redundancy cover or unemployment cover as an additional benefit, providing a lump sum or monthly payments if you're made redundant.

The tax treatment of income protection insurance benefits depends on whether the premiums were paid with pre-tax or after-tax dollars. Benefits from policies funded with after-tax dollars are typically tax-free, while benefits from policies funded with pre-tax dollars may be subject to income tax. It's essential to consult with a tax advisor to understand the tax implications of your income protection insurance benefits.

Income protection insurance provides a regular income stream if you're unable to work due to illness or disability, while critical illness insurance provides a lump sum payment if you're diagnosed with a covered critical illness, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Critical illness insurance offers financial support to cover medical expenses, living costs, or other obligations during your recovery.

Income protection insurance policies typically have a waiting period (also known as an elimination period) during which you do not receive benefits. If you become unable to work before this waiting period ends, you will not receive any income protection benefits until the waiting period has elapsed. It's important to have sufficient savings or other financial resources to cover your expenses during this initial period.

Many income protection insurance policies allow you to increase your coverage amount if your income rises, without the need for additional underwriting or medical examinations. This feature, sometimes called a 'guaranteed insurability option,' ensures that your coverage keeps pace with your increasing income and financial obligations.

The maximum age to purchase critical illness insurance varies depending on the insurer and the specific policy. While some insurers may offer critical illness insurance up to age 70 or beyond, others may have lower age limits. It's essential to check with insurers to determine their age eligibility criteria for purchasing critical illness insurance.

Whether you can get critical illness insurance if you have pre-existing conditions depends on the insurer's underwriting guidelines and the specific medical conditions. Some insurers may offer coverage with exclusions for pre-existing conditions, while others may decline coverage altogether. It's essential to disclose any pre-existing conditions when applying for critical illness insurance and discuss your options with insurers.

While health insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, critical illness insurance offers financial protection for broader expenses associated with a serious illness, such as lost income, household bills, and lifestyle changes. Critical illness insurance complements health insurance by providing additional financial support during a challenging time, ensuring that you can focus on recovery without worrying about financial burdens.

If you don't make a claim on your critical illness insurance during the policy term, you won't receive a benefit payout. However, having critical illness insurance provides peace of mind knowing that you're financially protected if you're diagnosed with a covered critical illness during the policy term. It's a form of financial preparation for unexpected events and offers valuable protection for you and your family.

If you outlive your critical illness insurance policy and don't make a claim for a covered critical illness during the policy term, the coverage will expire, and you won't receive a benefit payout. Critical illness insurance provides financial protection for a specific period, typically until a specified age or policy term, and offers peace of mind knowing that you're prepared for the unexpected.

Yes, many insurers offer optional riders or add-ons that you can add to your critical illness insurance policy for enhanced coverage. Common riders may include waiver of premium, which waives future premium payments if you become disabled, or return of premium, which refunds a portion of your premiums if you don't make a claim during the policy term. It's essential to review available riders with insurers to customise your coverage to meet your specific needs.

To make a claim on your critical illness insurance policy, you'll need to notify your insurer of your diagnosis and submit a claim form along with any required medical documentation, such as medical reports, test results, and physician statements. Once your claim is reviewed and approved by the insurer, you'll receive the lump sum benefit payment, which you can use to cover medical expenses, living costs, or other financial needs during your recovery.

As we age, the likelihood of encountering health complications increases for us all. In the event that you develop a severe medical condition, critical illness protection can assist with the expenses of crucial bills – enabling you to concentrate on recuperation or adjusting to your new health circumstance.

The typical expense of a Critical Illness protection policy will fluctuate based on aspects such as your age and medical background. As per our investigation, you can secure a policy starting from as low as £8 (for a non-smoking 21-year-old individual).

The most prevalent critical illnesses in the UK are cancer, cardiac arrest, and cerebrovascular accident (stroke).

Cancer is one of the primary causes for critical illness insurance claims in the UK. Cancer constitutes over 80% of critical illness cover claims for females and about 45% of critical illness claims for males.

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