Cover comparison · 2026
Critical Illness Cover vs Income Protection
Critical Illness Cover and Income Protection are often confused because they sit close together — but they protect against different things. This side-by-side shows exactly what each covers, what it excludes, the typical UK cost, and how to decide which one (or both) you actually need.
At a glance
Critical Illness Cover
Pays a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specified critical illness — typically cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Provides financial cushion during recovery.
Typical UK premium: £200–£1,200/yr
Available in: United Kingdom, Ireland
Income Protection
Pays a regular monthly income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. Covers up to 60–70% of your gross income until you recover, retire, or the policy term ends.
Typical UK premium: £200–£1,500/yr
Available in: United Kingdom, Ireland
What each policy covers
| Critical Illness Cover | Income Protection |
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What each policy excludes
| Critical Illness Cover | Income Protection |
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Choose Critical Illness Cover if…
- You need to protect against: cancer (most types).
- You need to protect against: heart attack.
- You need to protect against: stroke.
- Your budget for this risk is around £200–£1,200/yr.
Choose Income Protection if…
- You need to protect against: monthly income payment (up to 60–70% of gross earnings).
- You need to protect against: covers any illness or injury preventing work.
- You need to protect against: short or long-term payment periods.
- Your budget for this risk is around £200–£1,500/yr.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Critical Illness Cover and Income Protection?
Critical Illness Cover: Pays a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specified critical illness — typically cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Provides financial cushion during recovery. Income Protection: Pays a regular monthly income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. Covers up to 60–70% of your gross income until you recover, retire, or the policy term ends. They protect against different events, so many people hold one, the other, or both depending on their circumstances.
Is Critical Illness Cover or Income Protection more expensive?
Typical UK annual premiums run £200–£1,200/yr for Critical Illness Cover and £200–£1,500/yr for Income Protection. Your actual price depends on your circumstances and chosen cover level — always get a live quote before deciding.
Do I need both Critical Illness Cover and Income Protection?
Not always. Because critical illness cover and income protection cover different risks, holding both gives the broadest protection, but many people only need one. Compare what each covers below and pick the cover that matches your actual exposure.
Is critical illness cover the same as life insurance?
No — critical illness cover pays out on diagnosis of a specified serious illness while you are still alive. Life insurance pays out on death. Both are complementary — critical illness provides funds for living costs and adaptations during recovery.
What is the deferred period on income protection?
The deferred period is the waiting time between your inability to work and the first payment. Shorter periods (4 weeks) cost more. Choose a deferred period that aligns with how long your employer sick pay or savings would last.
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GeraSure is a comparison and referral service. Insurance products are provided by FCA-authorised or equivalent regulated insurers in each jurisdiction. GeraSure does not underwrite insurance policies and does not provide financial advice. Always read the policy wording before purchasing.