Can I Combine Critical Illness and Life Insurance?

Yes, combined critical illness and life insurance policies are popular in the UK. They pay on death OR diagnosis of a serious illness (whichever happens first). Combined policies are 40-60% cheaper than buying separate policies. The trade-off: only one payout is possible. If you claim critical illness, the policy ends with no remaining death benefit for your family.

Can I get critical illness and life insurance together?

Yes, combined policies are very popular in the UK. They pay on death OR diagnosis of a covered illness (whichever first). Cheaper than buying separately.

How much cheaper is combined cover?

Combined is typically 40-60% cheaper than separate life and CI policies. The saving is because the insurer only ever pays once, not twice.

What happens if I claim critical illness?

If you claim on critical illness, the policy pays your cover amount and then ends. There's no remaining life insurance - your family wouldn't receive a death benefit from this policy.

Is combined cover right for me?

Combined suits most people, especially for mortgage protection where budget is a factor. Separate is better if you want maximum protection and can afford higher premiums.

Quick Answer

How Does Combined Life and Critical Illness Work?

Last reviewed: December 2025

Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience

Combined = pays on death OR illness (first). 40-60% cheaper than separate. One payout only. Popular for mortgage protection. Choose based on budget.

Combining critical illness with life insurance is the most popular way to buy CI protection in the UK. It provides comprehensive coverage at a lower cost than separate policies.

Key Points

1Pays on death OR illness (first)
240-60% cheaper than separate
3Only one payout possible
4CI claim ends the policy
5Popular for mortgages
6Separate gives two payouts

Eligibility Criteria

Age typically 18-65
Health declaration required
Pre-existing conditions may be excluded
Joint life options available

Typical Timeframe

Application 1-4 weeks. Pays on death or within weeks of illness diagnosis.

Next Steps

1Calculate cover needed
2Compare combined vs separate
3Consider your budget
4Get quotes from providers
5Speak to protection adviser

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Combined Cover: Key Facts

How Does Combined Life and Critical Illness Work?

Key Points

Eligibility Criteria

Typical Timeframe

Next Steps

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