Critical illness cover
Critical Illness Cover when health changes
A serious diagnosis is hard enough without money worries. Critical illness cover may pay out a lump sum if you are diagnosed with a serious condition covered by your policy.
Talk to TonyAt a glance
- May pay a lump sum on diagnosis of a listed serious condition
- Can help with the mortgage, bills or time off to recover
- Only conditions defined in your policy are covered
What is critical illness cover?
Critical illness cover is a policy that may pay a lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specified serious illness, such as certain types of cancer, heart attack or stroke, and you meet the policy definition.
Who it may suit
Everyone's situation is different, but these are some of the people who often look at this kind of cover.
How it works with Tony
Good to know
- Only the conditions listed in the policy are covered, and each has its own definition.
- Some claims may not be paid if the condition does not meet the policy wording.
- Cover ends if you stop paying premiums.
- You will be asked health questions. Answer honestly, because incorrect answers could affect a claim.
Meet your adviser
Hi, I'm Tony Flynn
I'm a mortgage and protection adviser based in Carluke, helping people across Lanarkshire and Scotland.
I've spent 15+ years in finance and have been named Mortgage Professional of the Year at the Prestige Awards Scotland five years in a row. I'll explain your options in plain English so you know exactly where you stand.
Critical Illness Cover questions
What conditions are covered?
Each policy lists the conditions it covers and how they are defined. Tony can help you compare what different policies include.
Is critical illness cover the same as life insurance?
No. Life insurance pays out on death, while critical illness cover may pay out on diagnosis of a listed condition. Some people combine the two.
Does it replace income protection?
No. Critical illness pays a one-off sum, while income protection pays a regular monthly benefit if you cannot work. They protect against different things.
Will pre-existing conditions affect my cover?
They may. Insurers ask about your health history, and it can affect the terms or price offered.
Do I need it if I have sick pay?
Sick pay usually stops after a set period. It is worth checking how long yours would last and what would happen after that.
Ready to talk it through?
A quick chat with Tony is a good first step. No jargon, no pressure.
Talk to Tony