How Do I Apply for Critical Illness Insurance Online with Instant Approval?
Many UK insurers offer online applications with instant approval for critical illness cover. Complete a health and lifestyle questionnaire (15-20 minutes), and automated underwriting provides an immediate decision. Instant approval is available for straightforward applications - complex health histories may require manual underwriting.
Online Application Process
Complete online form
Answer questions about your age, health, lifestyle, occupation, and the cover you want. Takes 15-20 minutes.
Automated assessment
The insurer's system assesses your answers against underwriting criteria. Most decisions are instant.
Receive decision
You'll either be approved (possibly with exclusions), declined, or referred for manual underwriting.
Confirm and pay
If approved, confirm your policy details and set up your payment. Cover begins immediately or from your chosen date.
Who Typically Gets Instant Approval?
Likely Instant Approval
- • No significant health conditions
- • Non-smoker or light smoker
- • Healthy BMI range
- • Standard occupation
- • No hazardous hobbies
May Need Manual Review
- • Previous serious illness
- • Family history of conditions
- • Mental health treatment
- • High-risk occupation
- • Very high cover amounts
Important: Be Honest
Always answer application questions truthfully. Non-disclosure of health conditions can result in claims being rejected. If you're unsure about anything, speak to a protection adviser who can guide you through the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'instant approval' mean for critical illness?
Instant approval means you receive an immediate decision on your application without waiting for underwriters to manually review it. This is possible when your health and lifestyle fit within the insurer's automated underwriting criteria.
Can everyone get instant approval?
No. Instant approval is typically available for applicants with straightforward health histories. If you have pre-existing conditions, complex medical history, or high-risk occupations, your application will likely need manual underwriting which takes longer.
Is instant approval the same as guaranteed acceptance?
No. Instant approval means a quick decision, but that decision could still be 'no' or come with exclusions or premium loadings. Guaranteed acceptance policies exist but typically have waiting periods and limitations.
What happens after instant approval?
Once approved, your cover starts immediately (or from your chosen start date). You'll receive policy documents by email or post. Your first premium payment is typically collected, and you're covered from that point.
Related Questions
This page provides general information only and does not constitute personal financial advice. Instant approval availability varies between insurers and depends on individual circumstances. Your Home Finance is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.