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Best Life Insurance for Families UK 2025

Best Life Insurance for Families UK 2025 2025

Starting a family is one of life’s most profound milestones. It’s a journey filled with incredible joy, from first steps to first days at school. But alongside this joy comes a new, weighty sense of responsibility. As a parent or guardian, you become the financial bedrock for your loved ones, and the thought of not being there to provide for them can be daunting.

This is where life insurance transforms from an abstract financial product into a tangible act of love and protection. It's the ultimate safety net, ensuring that should the worst happen, your family's financial future is secure. It means the mortgage can still be paid, school fees can be covered, and daily life can continue without the added burden of financial crisis during an already devastating time.

Yet, the world of life insurance can seem complex. With a bewildering array of policies, providers, and jargon, how do you choose the right cover for your unique family needs? This guide is designed to cut through the noise. As specialists in the UK protection market, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to find the best life insurance for your family in 2025, ensuring your peace of mind is built on a foundation of informed choice.

Top-rated policies for protecting your children and spouse

When we talk about the "best" life insurance, it's not a one-size-fits-all answer. The ideal policy is one that is tailored to your family's specific circumstances, budget, and future aspirations. The core purpose is to replace your financial contribution, ensuring your dependents can maintain their standard of living.

For most families, this means covering major debts like a mortgage and providing a lump sum or regular income to cover day-to-day expenses, childcare costs, and future educational needs. The main types of policies that families in the UK turn to are:

  • Term Life Insurance: The most common and affordable type of cover, designed to protect your family for a specific period (the 'term'), such as until your children are financially independent or your mortgage is paid off.
  • Family Income Benefit: An alternative to a traditional lump-sum payout, this policy provides a regular, tax-free monthly or annual income for the remainder of the policy term, making budgeting easier for the surviving partner.
  • Whole of Life Insurance: A policy that covers you for your entire life, guaranteeing a payout upon death. It's often used for inheritance tax planning or to leave a definite legacy.

Beyond these, combining life insurance with Critical Illness Cover or securing your earnings with Income Protection creates a more robust financial shield. Let's explore these options in detail to find the perfect fit for your family.

Understanding the Core Types of Family Life Insurance

Choosing the right policy starts with understanding the fundamental differences between the main products on the market. Each is designed for a different purpose, and the best solution might even be a combination of policies.

Level Term Life Insurance

This is the simplest and often the most popular form of life insurance for families.

  • How it works: You choose a lump sum amount (the 'sum assured') and a policy duration (the 'term'). If you pass away within this term, the policy pays out the fixed, pre-agreed lump sum. If you survive the term, the policy expires, and there is no payout. The 'level' part means the payout amount remains the same, whether you pass away in year one or the final year of the policy.
  • Who it's for: Families with young children, those with an interest-only mortgage, or anyone who wants to leave a specific lump sum to cover living costs, school fees, and other future expenses.
  • Example: Mark and Sarah have two young children and an interest-only mortgage of £250,000. They take out a level term policy for £400,000 over 25 years. This would clear their mortgage and leave an additional £150,000 for Sarah to use for childcare and living costs if Mark were to pass away.
ProsCons
Simple to understandNo payout if you outlive the policy term
Affordable premiums, especially if youngThe real value of the lump sum can be eroded by inflation
Payout amount is fixed and guaranteedCan be more expensive than decreasing term cover

Decreasing Term Life Insurance (Mortgage Protection)

As the name suggests, this policy is specifically designed to protect a repayment mortgage.

  • How it works: The sum assured decreases over the policy term, roughly in line with the way a repayment mortgage balance reduces over time. Because the potential payout reduces each year, premiums are typically lower than for level term cover.
  • Who it's for: Primarily for families with a repayment mortgage. It's a cost-effective way to ensure the single largest family debt is cleared.
  • Example: Chloe has a £300,000 repayment mortgage over 30 years. She takes out a decreasing term policy for the same amount and term. If she were to pass away 15 years into the policy, the payout would be enough to clear the outstanding mortgage balance at that time, which might be around £180,000.
ProsCons
The most cost-effective type of life insuranceOnly designed to cover a reducing debt; not for other costs
Ensures your family's home is securePayout may not perfectly match the mortgage due to interest rate changes
Premiums are very lowNot suitable for interest-only mortgages or renters

Family Income Benefit

This policy offers a different approach to the payout, which can be immensely practical for a grieving family.

  • How it works: Instead of a single, large lump sum, Family Income Benefit pays a regular, tax-free income (monthly or annually) from the time of a claim until the end of the policy term.
  • Who it's for: Young families who would benefit more from a steady, manageable income to replace a lost salary rather than a large lump sum they have to manage and invest. It makes budgeting for monthly bills much simpler.
  • Example: David is the main earner, bringing in £3,500 a month. He takes out a Family Income Benefit policy to pay out £2,500 a month over a 20-year term. If he passes away five years into the term, his family will receive £2,500 every month for the remaining 15 years, providing a stable income to cover their outgoings.
ProsCons
Makes budgeting simple for the surviving partnerThe total potential payout decreases as the term progresses
Can be more affordable than a large level term policyNot ideal for clearing large one-off debts like a mortgage
Payout mimics a monthly salaryA lump sum may be preferred for investment or major purchases

Whole of Life Insurance

This is a more permanent and comprehensive form of cover.

  • How it works: This policy has no 'term' and lasts for your entire life. As long as you keep paying the premiums, it guarantees to pay out a lump sum when you pass away.
  • Who it's for: It's primarily used for two main purposes:
    1. Inheritance Tax (IHT) Planning: For individuals with estates likely to exceed the IHT threshold (£325,000 in 2025, plus a potential £175,000 residence nil-rate band). A Whole of Life policy can be written 'in trust' to provide a lump sum to the beneficiaries specifically to pay the IHT bill, ensuring family assets don't need to be sold.
    2. Leaving a Legacy: For those who want to guarantee a sum of money is left to their children or a chosen charity, regardless of when they pass away.
  • Example: Margaret, aged 65, has assets worth £800,000. She wants to ensure her children aren't forced to sell the family home to pay the inheritance tax bill. She takes out a Whole of Life policy for £200,000, written in trust. When she passes away, this sum is paid directly to her children to cover the IHT liability.

Because a payout is guaranteed, Whole of Life premiums are significantly higher than term insurance premiums.

How Much Life Insurance Does Your Family Really Need?

This is the most common question we hear, and the answer is deeply personal. Over-insuring means paying for cover you don't need, while under-insuring could leave your family vulnerable. A simple rule of thumb often cited is "10 times your annual salary," but a more tailored approach is far better.

Consider the following factors to calculate your family's specific needs:

  1. Debts (D): Add up all outstanding debts. This includes your mortgage, car loans, credit card balances, and any personal loans. The primary goal is to clear these so your family starts with a clean slate.
  2. Income (I): How much of your annual income would need to be replaced? Multiply your net annual salary by the number of years you want to provide for your family (e.g., until your youngest child turns 21).
  3. Mortgage (M): If not already included in 'Debts', ensure the full outstanding balance is covered. This is often the largest financial commitment.
  4. Education (E): Factor in future costs for your children. This could include school fees, university tuition, and living expenses. A 2024 study by the National Union of Students (NUS) highlighted the rising costs of student living, making this an increasingly important consideration.
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A Practical Calculation Example

Let's imagine a family with the following details:

  • Outstanding Mortgage: £250,000 (repayment)
  • Other Debts: £15,000 (car loan, credit cards)
  • Main Earner's Annual Net Salary: £45,000
  • Children: Aged 4 and 6. They want to provide an income until the youngest is 21 (17 years).
  • Future Costs: Estimate £50,000 for university costs for both children.
Financial NeedCalculationAmount Required
Clear MortgageFull outstanding balance£250,000
Clear Other DebtsLoans + Credit Cards£15,000
Income Replacement£25,000/year x 17 years£425,000
Education FundEstimated university costs£50,000
Subtract Existing AssetsExisting savings/investments-£20,000
Total Cover NeededSum of above£720,000

Note: In this example, they chose to replace £25,000 of the £45,000 salary, assuming the surviving partner's income would cover the rest.

This calculation shows that a simple "10 times salary" rule (£450,000) would have left the family significantly under-insured. It's always better to do the maths. An expert adviser at WeCovr can walk you through this calculation step-by-step to ensure your figure is accurate and realistic.

Beyond Life Insurance: Bolstering Your Family's Financial Safety Net

Life insurance pays out on death, but what if a serious illness or injury prevents you from working and earning a living? A 2023 report from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) showed that insurers pay out over £21.7 million every day on protection claims, a significant portion of which is for conditions that people survive.

This is why a comprehensive family protection plan often includes more than just life insurance.

Critical Illness Cover (CIC)

  • What it is: CIC pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a list of specific serious illnesses defined in the policy. The most common conditions covered are cancer, heart attack, and stroke, but modern policies can cover 50+ conditions, and some even over 100.
  • Why it's vital: Surviving a critical illness can have huge financial implications. The payout can be used to cover medical bills, adapt your home, pay off the mortgage, or simply replace lost income while you recover, allowing you to focus on your health without financial stress. It is most often sold as a combined policy with life insurance (Life and Critical Illness Cover).
  • Key consideration: The quality of a CIC policy lies in its definitions. A policy that pays out on an early-stage cancer diagnosis is far more valuable than one that requires the cancer to be advanced. Always check the Key Features Document.

Income Protection Insurance (IP)

  • What it is: Often described as the foundation of any financial plan, Income Protection pays a regular monthly income if you are unable to work due to any illness or injury. It continues to pay out until you can return to work, retire, or the policy term ends.
  • How it differs from CIC: CIC pays a one-off lump sum for a specific condition. IP pays a recurring income for almost any medical reason that stops you from working. It's designed for long-term incapacity.
  • The Deferment Period: This is the waiting period from when you stop working to when the policy starts paying out. It can be set from 1 day to 52 weeks. The longer the deferment period you choose (e.g., to match your employer's sick pay), the lower your premium will be.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), over 2.8 million people were reported as long-term sick in the UK in early 2024, the highest number on record. This highlights the very real risk of being unable to earn a living, making Income Protection a crucial consideration for any working parent.

Personal Sick Pay

For certain professions, particularly tradespeople, nurses, electricians, and other manual or higher-risk jobs, traditional income protection can sometimes be expensive. Personal Sick Pay policies are a type of short-term income protection designed to bridge this gap. They typically have shorter payment periods (e.g., 1, 2, or 5 years per claim) and can be more accessible, providing a vital safety net for those who are more susceptible to injuries that could keep them off work for weeks or months.

Special Considerations for Different Family Structures

Modern families are diverse, and your insurance plan should reflect your unique situation.

For Business Owners, Directors & the Self-Employed

If you run your own business or are self-employed, you lack the safety net of an employer's death-in-service benefit or sick pay scheme. This makes personal protection paramount, but there are also highly tax-efficient, business-specific solutions available.

  • Relevant Life Cover: This is a life insurance policy taken out and paid for by your limited company for an employee or director. The premiums are typically an allowable business expense, and it doesn't count towards your annual pension allowance. The payout goes directly to your family, free of inheritance tax. It's a hugely tax-efficient way for directors to arrange their family life insurance.
  • Executive Income Protection: Similar to the above, this is an income protection policy paid for by your business for a director. Premiums are a business expense, and if a claim is made, the benefit is paid to the company, which can then distribute it to you as salary via PAYE.
  • Key Person Insurance: This protects the business itself. It's a life insurance and/or critical illness policy taken out on a key individual whose death or serious illness would cause a significant financial loss to the company. The payout goes to the business to help it recruit a replacement, cover lost profits, or clear business debts.
  • Gift Inter Vivos: This niche policy is designed to cover a potential Inheritance Tax liability on a gift. If you gift an asset (e.g., property or cash) and pass away within seven years, it may still be subject to IHT. A Gift Inter Vivos policy is a 7-year decreasing term plan that pays out a sum to cover this tax bill, protecting the recipient of the gift.

For Stay-at-Home Parents

The financial contribution of a stay-at-home parent is often vastly underestimated. Consider the cost of replacing their role: full-time childcare, a home cleaner, a cook, a taxi service for the school run. Research consistently shows this value runs into tens of thousands of pounds per year. Insuring a stay-at-home parent is not a luxury; it's essential to allow the surviving working parent to continue their career without crippling childcare and domestic costs.

Choosing the Best Policy: Key Features to Compare in 2025

Once you know the type and amount of cover you need, it's time to compare policies. Price is important, but it shouldn't be the only factor.

1. Guaranteed vs. Reviewable Premiums

  • Guaranteed Premiums: The cost is fixed for the entire policy term. You know exactly what you'll be paying from day one until the policy ends. This is highly recommended for long-term family planning.
  • Reviewable Premiums: The insurer can review and increase your premiums every few years (typically five). While they might be cheaper initially, they can become significantly more expensive over time, potentially becoming unaffordable when you're older and need the cover most. For family life insurance, always favour guaranteed premiums.

2. Insurer Payout Rates & Reputation

The ABI publishes annual claim statistics. In 2023, 97.4% of all protection claims were paid out, demonstrating the industry's reliability. Look for an insurer with a consistently high payout rate (ideally 97%+) and positive customer service reviews. You are buying a promise, and you need to trust the company making it.

3. Added Value Benefits & Wellness Programmes

Insurers are increasingly competing by offering free additional benefits that you can use even without claiming. These can be incredibly valuable for families and include:

  • Virtual GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling sessions and support lines.
  • Second Medical Opinion Services: If you're diagnosed with a serious illness, you can get your diagnosis and treatment plan reviewed by a world-leading expert.
  • Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Support: Help to get you back on your feet after an injury.

At WeCovr, we champion this holistic approach to health. In addition to the benefits provided by insurers, we offer our clients complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. We believe that supporting your health journey today is just as important as protecting your financial future tomorrow.

Comparing Key Policy Features

Feature to CompareWhat to Look ForWhy It Matters for Families
Premium TypeGuaranteed over ReviewableProvides budget certainty for the long term. Avoids future price hikes.
CIC Definitions'ABI+' definitions, partial paymentsBetter definitions mean a higher chance of a successful claim, especially for earlier stage illnesses.
Trust Writing ServiceA simple, free process offered by the insurer/brokerEssential for avoiding probate and IHT. Ensures the money gets to your family quickly.
Additional BenefitsVirtual GP, mental health support, fitness rewardsThese add real day-to-day value and can save you money on private medical advice.
Claim Payout RateConsistently above 97%Gives you confidence that the insurer will pay out when your family needs it most.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for life insurance is more straightforward than you might think.

  1. Get a Quote: You'll provide basic details: name, age, smoker status, the type and amount of cover you want, and the policy term.
  2. Complete the Application: This involves a detailed health and lifestyle questionnaire. You'll be asked about your medical history, your family's medical history, your occupation, and any high-risk hobbies (e.g., mountaineering, scuba diving). It is vitally important to be completely honest.
  3. Underwriting: This is the insurer's risk assessment process. They will review your application to decide whether to offer you cover and at what price.
  4. Medical Evidence (If Required): For larger sums of cover or if you have pre-existing health conditions, the insurer may request more information. This could be a report from your GP (a GPR) or a mini-medical exam with a nurse, which they will arrange and pay for.
  5. Offer of Terms: The insurer will either accept your application at the standard price, apply a 'loading' (increase the premium) due to a health or lifestyle risk, or in rare cases, decline or postpone cover.
  6. Put Your Policy in Trust: Once your policy is accepted, this is the final, crucial step. Writing your policy in trust means the payout goes directly to your chosen beneficiaries, bypassing your legal estate. This means the money is paid out much faster (weeks instead of months or even years) and it won't be considered for Inheritance Tax purposes. This is usually a free service, and an adviser can help you complete the simple forms.

The Cost of Peace of Mind: What Influences Your Premiums?

Several factors determine the cost of your life insurance premium:

  • Age & Health: The younger and healthier you are, the cheaper your cover will be.
  • Smoker Status: Smokers or recent ex-smokers (typically within the last 12-36 months, depending on the insurer) will pay significantly more, often double that of a non-smoker.
  • Amount & Term: The higher the sum assured and the longer the term, the higher the premium.
  • Occupation & Hobbies: A desk-based job carries less risk than being a scaffolder. Likewise, a passion for rock climbing will increase your premium compared to a love of gardening.

Illustrative Monthly Premiums for Life Insurance

The table below gives an indication of monthly premiums for a £250,000 Level Term policy over 25 years. These are for illustrative purposes only and based on a healthy individual with a low-risk occupation.

AgeNon-SmokerSmoker
30£11.50£21.00
35£16.00£31.50
40£24.00£49.00
45£39.00£81.00

As you can see, the cost increases sharply with age, reinforcing the message: the best time to buy life insurance is now.

WeCovr's Top Tips for Securing the Best Family Life Insurance

  1. Don't Delay. The table above proves it. You will never be younger or likely healthier than you are today. Locking in a premium now saves you a significant amount of money over the life of the policy.
  2. Be Honest. The temptation to omit a health issue or say you've quit smoking can be strong, but it's a false economy. Non-disclosure is one of the main reasons claims are denied. An invalid policy is a waste of money and a catastrophe for your family.
  3. Review Your Cover Regularly. Life changes. Getting married, having another child, moving to a bigger house, or getting a pay rise are all key moments to review your cover and ensure it's still adequate.
  4. Consider Two Single Policies Over a Joint One. A 'joint life, first death' policy is common for couples and pays out once when the first person dies, after which the cover ceases. Two separate single policies provide two separate pots of money. If one partner dies, their policy pays out, and the surviving partner's cover remains in place. The cost difference is often minimal, but the extra protection can be invaluable.
  5. Use an Independent Broker. The protection market is vast. An independent broker, like WeCovr, doesn't work for a single insurer. We work for you. We can compare policies from all the major UK providers to find the best cover at the most competitive price. We handle the paperwork, help you with complex forms like trust deeds, and provide expert, impartial advice tailored to your family's needs.

In Conclusion: An Act of Love

Choosing life insurance is one of the most selfless and important financial decisions you will ever make as a parent. It isn't about planning for death; it's about planning for your family's life to continue, no matter what. It’s the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have done everything in your power to protect the people you love most.

By understanding the different types of cover, accurately calculating your needs, and seeking expert advice, you can build a robust financial safety net that secures your family's home, their lifestyle, and their future. It is a legacy of security and a final, enduring act of love.

Can I get life insurance if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

Yes, in many cases, you can. It is crucial to fully disclose your condition on the application form. The insurer will assess your individual circumstances. Depending on the condition and its severity, they may offer cover at the standard price, increase the premium (a 'loading'), or add an 'exclusion' related to that specific condition. For some severe or complex conditions, it may be harder to get cover, which is where a specialist broker can help by approaching insurers who are more likely to offer favourable terms.

What is the difference between joint life and two single policies?

A 'joint life, first death' policy covers two people but only pays out once, on the first death. The policy then ends, leaving the survivor without cover. Two single policies provide independent cover for each person. If one person dies, their policy pays out, but the other person's policy remains active. While slightly more expensive, two single policies often provide better overall protection for a family, especially if there are children, as it provides two potential payouts.

Is a life insurance payout taxable in the UK?

The life insurance payout itself is generally free from income tax and capital gains tax. However, if the policy is not written in trust, the payout sum will form part of your legal estate. If your total estate is worth more than the Inheritance Tax (IHT) threshold, the payout could be subject to 40% IHT. By writing the policy 'in trust', the payout is made directly to your beneficiaries and does not enter your estate, thus avoiding both probate delays and IHT.

Do I need to tell my insurer if I start smoking or take up a risky hobby after taking out the policy?

Generally, for personal life insurance policies with guaranteed premiums, you do not need to inform the insurer of lifestyle changes made after the policy has started. The assessment is based on your circumstances at the time of application. However, you should always check the terms and conditions of your specific policy. If you have reviewable premiums, the insurer may ask about lifestyle changes at the review point.

How long does a life insurance claim take to pay out?

The time can vary. If the policy is written in trust, the process is much faster as the trustees can make a claim immediately with the death certificate. Payouts can happen within a few weeks. If the policy is not in trust, the insurer must wait for the grant of probate (the legal right to deal with the deceased's estate), which can take many months or even over a year, causing significant delays for the family.

What is Terminal Illness Benefit?

Terminal Illness Benefit is a standard feature included in most modern term life insurance policies at no extra cost. It allows the policy to pay out early if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness where a medical professional confirms you have less than 12 months to live. This allows you to get your financial affairs in order and use the money as you wish while you are still alive, rather than it being paid out after your death.

Why life insurance and how does it work?

What is Life Insurance?

Life insurance is an insurance policy that can provide financial support for your loved ones when you or your joint policy holder passes away. It can help clear any outstanding debts, such as a mortgage, and cover your family's living and other expenses such costs of education, so your family can continue to pay bills and living expenses. In addition to life insurance, insurance providers offer related products such as income protection and critical illness, which we will touch upon below.

How does it work?

Life insurance pays out if you die. The payout can be in the form of a lump sum payment or can be paid as a replacement for a regular income. It's your decision how much cover you'd like to take based on your financial resources and how much you'd like to leave to your family to help them deal with any outstanding debts and living expenses. Your premium depends on a number of factors, including your occupation, health and other criteria.

The payout amount can change over time or can be fixed. A level term or whole of life policy offers a fixed payout. A decreasing term policy offers a payout that decreases over the term of the cover.

With critical illness policies, a payout is made if you’re diagnosed with a terminal illness with a remaining life expectancy of less than 12 months. While income protection policies ensure you can continue to meet your financial commitments if you are forced to take an extended break from work. If you can’t work because you’ve had an accident, fallen sick, or lost your job through no fault of your own, income protection insurance pays you an agreed portion of your salary each month.

Income protection is particularly helpful for people in dangerous occupations who want to be sure their mortgage will always be covered. Income protection only covers events beyond your control: you’re much less likely to be covered if you’re fired from your job or if you injure yourself deliberately.

Questions to ask yourself regarding life insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Who would pay your mortgage or rent if you were to pass away or fall seriously ill?
👉 Who would pay for your family’s food, clothing, study fees or lifestyle?
👉 Who would provide for the costs of your funeral or clear your debts?
👉 Who would pay for your costs if you're unable to work due to serious illness or disability?

Many families don’t realise that life, income protection and critical illness insurance is one of the most effective ways to protect their finances. A great insurance policy can cover costs, protect a family from inheriting debts and even pay off a mortgage.

Many would think that the costs for all the benefits provided by life insurance, income protection insurance or critical illness insurance are too high, but the great news is in the current market policies are actually very inexpensive.

Benefits offered by income protection, life and critical illness insurance

Life insurance, income protection and critical illness insurance are indispensable for every family because a child loses a parent every 22 minutes in the UK, while every single day tragically 60 people suffer major injuries on the UK roads. Some people become unable to work because of sickness or disability.

Life insurance cover pays out a lump sum to your family, loved ones or whomever you choose to get the money. This can be used to secure the financial future of your loved ones meaning they would not have to struggle financially in the event of your death.

If it's a critical illness cover, the payout happens sooner - upon diagnosis of a serious illness, disability or medical condition, easing the financial hardship such an event inevitably brings.

Income protection insurance can be very important for anyone who relies on a pay check to cover their living costs, but it's especially important if you’re self-employed or own a small business, where your employment and income is a bit less stable. It pays a regular income if you can't work because of sickness or disability and continues until you return to paid work or you retire.

In a world where 1 in 4 of us would struggle financially after just four weeks without work, the stark reality hits hard – a mere 7% of UK adults possess the vital shield of income protection. The urgency of safeguarding our financial well-being has never been more palpable.

Let's face it – relying on savings isn't a solution for everyone. Almost 25% of people have no savings at all, and a whopping 50% have £1,000 or less tucked away. Even more concerning, 51% of Brits – that's a huge 27 million people – wouldn't last more than one month living off their savings. That's a 10% increase from 2022.

And don't even think about state benefits being a safety net. The maximum you can expect from statutory sick pay is a mere £109.40 per week for up to 28 weeks. Not exactly a financial lifeline, right?

Now, let's tackle a common objection: "But I have critical illness insurance. I don't need income protection too." Here's the deal – the two policies apply to very different situations. In a nutshell:

  • Critical illness insurance pays a single lump sum if you're diagnosed with or undergo surgery for a specified potentially life-threatening illness. It's great for handling big one-off expenses or debts.
  • Income protection, on the other hand, pays a percentage of your salary as a regular payment if you can't work due to illness or injury. It's the superhero that tackles those relentless monthly bills.

Types of life insurance policies

Common reasons for getting a life insurance policy are to:
✅ Leave behind an amount of money to keep your family comfortable
✅ Protect the family home and pay off the mortgage in full or in part
✅ Pay for funeral costs

Starting from as little as a couple of pounds per week, you can do all that with a Life Policy.

Level Term Life Insurance
One of the simplest forms of life insurance, level term life insurance works by selecting a length of time for which you would want to be covered and then deciding how much you would like your loved ones to receive should the worst happen. Should your life insurance policy pay out to your family, it would be in a lump sum amount that can be used in whatever way the beneficiary may wish.

Decreasing Term Life Insurance
Decreasing term life insurance works in the same way as level term, except the lump sum payment amount upon death decreases with time. The common use for decreasing term life cover is to protect against mortgage repayment as the lump sum decreases along with the principal of the mortgage itself.

Increasing Term Life Insurance
Increasing term life insurance aims to pay out a cash sum growing each year if the worst happens while covered by the policy. With increasing term life cover amount insured increases annually by a fixed amount for the length of the policy. This can protect your policy's value against inflation, which could be advantageous if you’re looking to maintain your loved ones’ living standards, continue paying off your mortgage in line with its repayment schedule and cover your children’s education fees.

Whole of Life Insurance
Whereas term life insurance policies only pay out if you pass away during their term, whole of life insurance pays out to your beneficiaries whenever this should happen. The most common uses for whole life insurance are to cover the costs of a funeral or as a vehicle for your family's inheritance tax planning.

Family Income Benefit
Family income benefit is a somewhat lesser-known product in the family of life insurance products. Paying out a set amount every month of year to your beneficiaries, it is the most cost-effective way of maintaining your family's living standards to an age where you'd expect them to be able to support themselves financially. The most common use would be for a family with children who are not working yet so are unable to take care of themselves financially.

Relevant Life Insurance
Relevant Life Insurance is a tax-efficient policy for a director or single employee. A simple level term life insurance product, it is placed in a specific trust to ensure its tax efficiency. The premiums are tax deductible and any benefit payable should a claim arise is also paid out tax free, which makes it an attractive product for entrepreneurs and their businesses.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get life insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their life, income protection, and critical illness insurance cover in place before running into some serious issues. Critical illness and income protection insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, bicycles and even bags! Yet our life and health are the most precious things we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy life, income protection, critical illness and private medical health insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of life insurance policies available in the market, including income protection, critical illness and other types of policies most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced FCA-authorised insurance partner experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to life insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable life, income protection, critical illness or private medical health insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

Life, income protection, and/or critical illness insurance are safety nets, very important at a difficult time. If anything happened to you before your cover ends, your life or critical illness insurance would pay a lump sum to your family and/or you (if you took a critical illness or income protection cover) to help cover the losses. Being diagnosed with a critical illness can be devastating, and it won't help matters to be also worrying about how you would cope financially. With a life, income protection, or critical illness policy, you can choose how much cover you need, how you want the policy to pay out, and whether you want cover for both you and your partner. Income protection insurance pays you a regular income if you can't work because of sickness or disability and continues until you return to paid work or you retire. Also known as permanent health insurance, it is quite important for anyone who relies on a paycheck to cover their living costs, but it's particularly important if you're self-employed or own a small business, where your income might be a bit less stable.

Life, income protection, and critical illness insurance pay out millions to families every day. Your expert will explain to you that you need to be honest and open when applying for your insurance.

If you're single with no dependants then it may be that you don't need life assurance. However, if you were to become seriously ill and unable to work, you may benefit from a critical illness or income protection policy. They can help you keep up to date with your rent, bills, food, and other expenses.

It's free to use WeCovr to find life, income protection, and critical illness insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Critical illness, income protection, and life insurance is an investment that pays many times over for you and/or your loved ones.

Life, income protection, and critical illness insurance are important financial products that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence, so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our insurance partners give us a few pounds when you take out a policy with one of their experts.

The cost of life insurance depends on several factors, including your age, occupation, health status, and the level of coverage you choose. Your life insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the sum assured, policy term, and other factors.

Some life insurance policies offer an option to add critical illness cover as a rider or as a separate policy. This provides a lump sum payment if you are diagnosed with a critical illness covered by your policy, offering financial support during a difficult time.

Yes, life insurance is available to self-employed individuals to provide financial protection for their loved ones in the event of their death. It ensures that your family can maintain their standard of living and cover expenses such as mortgage payments, bills, and education costs.

If you outlive your life insurance policy and it expires without a claim, you will not receive any payout. Term life insurance policies are designed to provide coverage for a specific period, and once that period ends, the policy terminates without any residual value. However, you can typically renew or purchase a new policy if you still need coverage.

Critical illness insurance provides a lump sum payment if you're diagnosed with a serious illness covered by your policy, offering financial support during a difficult time. It can help cover medical expenses, mortgage payments, and other financial obligations while you focus on recovery.

Critical illness insurance covers a range of serious illnesses and medical conditions specified in your policy, such as cancer, heart attack, stroke, and organ failure. The lump sum payment can be used to cover medical treatment, ongoing care, and living expenses during your recovery.

The cost of critical illness insurance varies depending on factors such as your age, health status, lifestyle, and the level of coverage you choose. Our experts can provide personalised quotes to help you find affordable coverage.

Yes, you can have critical illness insurance alongside your health insurance coverage. Critical illness insurance provides additional financial protection specifically for serious illnesses, complementing your health insurance benefits.

Critical illness insurance policies typically have exclusions for pre-existing conditions and certain medical conditions not covered by the policy. It's essential to review the terms and conditions of your policy to understand what is and isn't covered.

Some critical illness insurance policies may provide coverage for recurring illnesses, while others may not. It's crucial to review the policy terms and understand the specific conditions under which you can make additional claims for recurring illnesses. Your insurer can provide more details on their coverage for recurring critical illnesses.

Yes, you can customise your life insurance policy to suit your individual needs and circumstances. Options may include choosing the sum assured, policy term, premium payment frequency, and additional riders for enhanced coverage.

If you miss a premium payment for your life insurance policy, your coverage may lapse, and your policy could be terminated. However, many insurers offer a grace period during which you can make the payment to keep your policy active. It's essential to contact your insurer to discuss your options if you're unable to make a payment.

Yes, you can typically change the beneficiary of your life insurance policy at any time by completing a beneficiary change form provided by your insurer. It's essential to keep your beneficiary designation up to date to ensure that the proceeds are distributed according to your wishes.

Term life insurance provides cover for a fixed period, such as 10, 20 or 30 years, and pays out a lump sum if you die during that time. It’s often chosen to protect a mortgage or to provide financial support while dependants still rely on your income. Whole-of-life insurance is designed to last for the rest of your life and guarantees a payout whenever you die, as long as premiums are maintained. It’s usually more expensive than term insurance and is sometimes used to help with inheritance tax planning or to leave a guaranteed legacy.

Some term life insurance policies offer the option to convert to a whole life insurance policy without the need for a medical exam or new underwriting. This conversion feature allows you to maintain coverage beyond the term of your policy and provides lifelong protection.

Some life insurance policies offer accelerated death benefits or living benefits that allow you to access a portion of the death benefit if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness. This feature provides financial assistance to help cover medical expenses and other costs during your final months.

While having savings can provide a financial cushion during tough times, income protection insurance offers additional security by replacing a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or disability. It ensures that you can maintain your standard of living and cover essential expenses even if your savings are depleted.

Yes, self-employed individuals can claim income protection insurance if they're unable to work due to illness or disability. Income protection provides a regular income stream to replace lost earnings, helping self-employed individuals cover their living expenses and business costs during periods of incapacity.

The waiting period, also known as the elimination period, is the length of time you must wait after becoming unable to work due to illness or disability before you can start receiving benefits from your income protection insurance policy. Waiting periods typically range from 30 to 90 days, but longer waiting periods may result in lower premiums.

Income protection insurance is designed to provide financial support if you're unable to work due to illness or disability, not for redundancy. However, some policies may offer optional redundancy cover or unemployment cover as an additional benefit, providing a lump sum or monthly payments if you're made redundant.

The tax treatment of income protection insurance benefits depends on whether the premiums were paid with pre-tax or after-tax dollars. Benefits from policies funded with after-tax dollars are typically tax-free, while benefits from policies funded with pre-tax dollars may be subject to income tax. It's essential to consult with a tax advisor to understand the tax implications of your income protection insurance benefits.

Income protection insurance provides a regular income stream if you're unable to work due to illness or disability, while critical illness insurance provides a lump sum payment if you're diagnosed with a covered critical illness, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Critical illness insurance offers financial support to cover medical expenses, living costs, or other obligations during your recovery.

Income protection insurance policies typically have a waiting period (also known as an elimination period) during which you do not receive benefits. If you become unable to work before this waiting period ends, you will not receive any income protection benefits until the waiting period has elapsed. It's important to have sufficient savings or other financial resources to cover your expenses during this initial period.

Many income protection insurance policies allow you to increase your coverage amount if your income rises, without the need for additional underwriting or medical examinations. This feature, sometimes called a 'guaranteed insurability option,' ensures that your coverage keeps pace with your increasing income and financial obligations.

The maximum age to purchase critical illness insurance varies depending on the insurer and the specific policy. While some insurers may offer critical illness insurance up to age 70 or beyond, others may have lower age limits. It's essential to check with insurers to determine their age eligibility criteria for purchasing critical illness insurance.

Whether you can get critical illness insurance if you have pre-existing conditions depends on the insurer's underwriting guidelines and the specific medical conditions. Some insurers may offer coverage with exclusions for pre-existing conditions, while others may decline coverage altogether. It's essential to disclose any pre-existing conditions when applying for critical illness insurance and discuss your options with insurers.

While health insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, critical illness insurance offers financial protection for broader expenses associated with a serious illness, such as lost income, household bills, and lifestyle changes. Critical illness insurance complements health insurance by providing additional financial support during a challenging time, ensuring that you can focus on recovery without worrying about financial burdens.

If you don't make a claim on your critical illness insurance during the policy term, you won't receive a benefit payout. However, having critical illness insurance provides peace of mind knowing that you're financially protected if you're diagnosed with a covered critical illness during the policy term. It's a form of financial preparation for unexpected events and offers valuable protection for you and your family.

If you outlive your critical illness insurance policy and don't make a claim for a covered critical illness during the policy term, the coverage will expire, and you won't receive a benefit payout. Critical illness insurance provides financial protection for a specific period, typically until a specified age or policy term, and offers peace of mind knowing that you're prepared for the unexpected.

Yes, many insurers offer optional riders or add-ons that you can add to your critical illness insurance policy for enhanced coverage. Common riders may include waiver of premium, which waives future premium payments if you become disabled, or return of premium, which refunds a portion of your premiums if you don't make a claim during the policy term. It's essential to review available riders with insurers to customise your coverage to meet your specific needs.

To make a claim on your critical illness insurance policy, you'll need to notify your insurer of your diagnosis and submit a claim form along with any required medical documentation, such as medical reports, test results, and physician statements. Once your claim is reviewed and approved by the insurer, you'll receive the lump sum benefit payment, which you can use to cover medical expenses, living costs, or other financial needs during your recovery.

As we age, the likelihood of encountering health complications increases for us all. In the event that you develop a severe medical condition, critical illness protection can assist with the expenses of crucial bills – enabling you to concentrate on recuperation or adjusting to your new health circumstance.

The typical expense of a Critical Illness protection policy will fluctuate based on aspects such as your age and medical background. As per our investigation, you can secure a policy starting from as low as £8 (for a non-smoking 21-year-old individual).

The most prevalent critical illnesses in the UK are cancer, cardiac arrest, and cerebrovascular accident (stroke).

Cancer is one of the primary causes for critical illness insurance claims in the UK. Cancer constitutes over 80% of critical illness cover claims for females and about 45% of critical illness claims for males.


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Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.