Quick Answer
Should I Get Critical Illness Cover?
Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience
Worth it if: mortgage, dependents, limited savings. Average payout £67k. 92% claims paid. But expensive - consider existing provisions first.
Whether critical illness is worth it depends on your personal circumstances. If a serious illness would cause financial hardship through lost income, mortgage arrears, or care costs, it provides vital protection. But it's not for everyone.
Key Points
- 1Average claim: £67,000 tax-free
- 292% of claims paid
- 3Cancer = 65% of claims
- 4Worth it if you have mortgage/dependents
- 5Consider savings and employer benefits
- 6Expensive with strict definitions
Eligibility Criteria
- Recommended for mortgage holders
- Important for main income earner
- Valuable with limited sick pay
- Consider family health history
- Less needed with substantial savings
Typical Timeframe
Policies start immediately with waiting period. Claims pay within 4-8 weeks of diagnosis.
Next Steps
- 1List your financial vulnerabilities
- 2Check employer benefits
- 3Calculate cover needed
- 4Compare quotes from providers
- 5Speak to protection adviser
Ready to discuss your options?
FCA regulated advice tailored to your situation
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ProtectionJay Sabine
CeMAP Qualified
29 Years Experience
Content reviewed: January 2026