How Do UK Critical Illness Providers Compare?

UK critical illness providers compared: Aviva (60+ conditions, 92% claims paid), Legal & General (45+ conditions, 93% paid), Zurich (65+ conditions, 91% paid), Royal London (55+ conditions, 94% paid), Vitality (70+ conditions, 90% paid). Key differences are in condition definitions, children's cover, and additional benefits. Cancer, heart attack, and stroke account for 90% of claims.

Which critical illness provider is best?

The 'best' provider depends on your needs. Royal London has the highest claim rate (94%), Vitality covers most conditions (70+), L&G offers competitive pricing. Consider what matters most to you.

How do I compare critical illness policies?

Compare: number of conditions covered, claim success rates, definitions of key conditions (especially cancer), children's cover, additional benefits, and price. Don't just choose the cheapest.

Does the number of conditions matter?

Quality matters more than quantity. A policy covering 45 conditions with clear definitions may be better than one covering 100 with strict definitions. Focus on cancer, heart attack, and stroke definitions.

What claim rate should I look for?

Look for 90%+ claim success rates. Most major UK providers achieve this. Lower rates may indicate stricter definitions or more declined claims.

Quick Answer

Which Critical Illness Provider Should I Choose?

Last reviewed: December 2025

Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience

Top UK providers: Royal London (94% claims paid), L&G (competitive pricing), Aviva (strong cancer cover), Vitality (lifestyle rewards), Zurich (65+ conditions). Compare definitions, not just price.

Choosing a critical illness provider requires comparing more than just price. The number of conditions, how they're defined, claim success rates, and additional benefits all matter. Major UK providers include Aviva, Legal & General, Zurich, Royal London, and Vitality.

Key Points

1Royal London: highest claim rate (94%)
2Vitality: most conditions (70+)
3L&G: competitive pricing
4Aviva: strong cancer definitions
5Zurich: comprehensive flexibility
6Focus on definitions, not just condition count

Eligibility Criteria

Age typically 18-65 at application
UK resident
Health declaration required
Lifestyle factors affect pricing

Typical Timeframe

Comparison and application typically takes 1-2 weeks. Some policies start immediately, others have waiting periods.

Next Steps

1Decide your cover amount needed
2Compare 3-5 providers
3Check cancer and heart attack definitions
4Get personalised quotes
5Speak to an independent adviser

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Provider Comparison: Key Facts

Which Critical Illness Provider Should I Choose?

Key Points

Eligibility Criteria

Typical Timeframe

Next Steps

Related Questions

UK Provider Comparison

People Also Ask

What Our Clients Say

Provider	Conditions	Claim Rate	Strength
Aviva	60+	92%	Comprehensive cover
Legal & General	45+	93%	Value for money
Zurich	65+	91%	Flexibility
Royal London	55+	94%	Family protection
Vitality	70+	90%	Active discounts