What critical illness cover actually does.
Critical illness cover pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a defined list of serious illnesses. Cancer, heart attack, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and more. The payout is yours to use as you need: mortgage, treatment, time off work, home adjustments, or family support.
Policies vary significantly between insurers in the conditions they cover and how they define them. We compare the whole market and set out the differences so you know exactly what you are buying.
The decisions that shape your policy.
Conditions Covered
Most modern policies cover 50 or more conditions, plus partial payments for less severe diagnoses. The list and definitions matter as much as the price.
Term and Sum Assured
Choose the cover amount and the term, usually aligned with your mortgage or family obligations.
Standalone or Combined
Critical illness can be standalone or combined with life cover. Combined is often cheaper and covers two events with one policy.
Children's Cover
Most policies include children's critical illness cover as standard or as a low cost add-on.
Four steps to the right policy.
Needs review
We work out the right sum assured, term, and structure for your case.
Market search
We compare the whole UK market on price and on definitions, not just the cheapest premium.
Application
We handle the medical underwriting and insurer liaison from start to finish.
Annual review
We check the cover still matches your mortgage, income, and family every year.
Critical Illness FAQs.
How many conditions are covered?
Most modern policies cover 50 or more conditions, with partial payouts for less severe diagnoses. We compare definitions carefully because they vary by insurer.
Is critical illness cover better than life insurance?
They do different jobs. Life cover pays on death. Critical illness pays on diagnosis while you are alive. Most people benefit from both.
Are children covered?
Most policies include children's critical illness as standard or as a low cost add-on, with a separate payout if a child is diagnosed.
What happens if I claim?
The policy pays a tax-free lump sum once the diagnosis meets the policy definition. The money is yours to use as you choose.
What conditions are excluded?
Pre-existing conditions and certain conditions in their early stages may be excluded. We confirm exactly what is and is not covered before you commit.
Can I have it without life cover?
Yes. Standalone critical illness is available, though combined policies are often more cost effective.
