Critical illness cover
Critical illness cover pays a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a serious illness listed in the policy.
Also known as: critical illness insurance
Policies list specific conditions and definitions, such as certain cancers, heart attack and stroke. If your condition does not meet the definition, the insurer will not pay. It usually pays only once.
It is often sold with life insurance. Compare the definitions carefully and consider how it fits with income protection and sick pay.
Check the policy documents and the key facts before you buy, and compare the cover as well as the price.
Related terms
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10 min readReadThis page provides general information only. It is not personalised financial, legal or tax advice, and rules and figures can change. Your situation is unique — please check official sources such as GOV.UK and MoneyHelper, and speak to a qualified, FCA-authorised adviser before making important decisions about your money.