Critical Illness Cover pays a settlement payment out in the form of a lump sum on the diagnosis of a critical illness as defined by the provider. These may include such conditions as a heart attack, stroke or various forms of cancer.

A critical illness policy pays out a lump sum if you are diagnosed with a serious illness that may prevent you from working again. This would ensure that any financial commitments could be repaid or it could help fund the cost of specialist treatment or drugs to help the condition. For single people with no dependants, Critical Illness Cover that pays off the mortgage is more important than having life cover, as it means you have fewer bills or a lump sum to use at your disposal if you are very unwell. As a couple this is also advisable as this will provide a welcome financial boost at a time of emotional stress and financial hardship. The majority of critical illness providers will also include children’s critical illness cover at no additional cost to provide additional cover for all of the family.