What Is Critical Illness Only Cover?

Critical illness only cover is standalone insurance that pays a tax-free lump sum if diagnosed with a serious condition - without any life insurance element. It suits people who already have adequate life cover elsewhere. While offering flexibility, standalone CI often costs more per pound of cover than combined life and CI policies, because combined policies only pay once.

Learn more about combined life and ci in our detailed guide.

What is critical illness only cover?

Critical illness only cover is standalone CI insurance without any life insurance element. You're covered for serious illness diagnosis only, with no death benefit.

When should I choose CI only?

Consider CI only if you already have adequate life insurance (through work or another policy) and want to add illness protection without duplicating death cover.

Is standalone CI more expensive?

Per pound of cover, standalone CI often costs more than adding CI to life insurance. This is because combined policies only pay once (either death or illness).

What's the alternative?

Combined life and CI policies provide both coverages at lower overall cost. You get protection against death and serious illness in one policy.

Quick Answer

Should I Get Critical Illness Only Cover?

Last reviewed: December 2025

Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience

CI only = standalone illness cover, no death benefit. Best if you already have life insurance. Combined policies usually offer better value.

Critical illness only cover provides protection against serious illness without bundling life insurance. It's a flexible option for those who want to keep their protection arrangements separate.

Key Points

1Standalone illness cover only
2No death benefit included
3Suits those with existing life cover
4Often more expensive per £
5Flexibility to arrange separately
6Compare with combined options

Eligibility Criteria

Same as combined policies
Age typically 18-65
Health declaration required
Pre-existing conditions may be excluded

Typical Timeframe

Application process similar to combined policies - typically 1-4 weeks.

Next Steps

1Review your existing life cover
2Calculate CI amount needed
3Compare standalone vs combined costs
4Get quotes for both options
5Speak to protection adviser

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Should I Get Critical Illness Only Cover?

Key Points

Eligibility Criteria

Typical Timeframe

Next Steps

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