Adviser guide · Updated for 2026
How Much Does Income Protection Insurance Cost in the UK?
Direct answer
Income Protection Insurance typically costs between £20 and £80 per month, although premiums vary depending on age, occupation, health, deferred period, benefit amount and policy features. Many healthy applicants in their 30s and 40s can obtain cover from around £20–£40 per month, while higher benefit levels or more comprehensive cover can cost significantly more.
Typical Monthly Costs
These are illustrative ranges for non-smokers insuring around 50–60% of income with a moderate deferred period. Your quote may differ — always compare personalised illustrations.
| Applicant type | Example monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Age 30 (office worker, non-smoker) | £20–£35 |
| Age 40 (office worker, non-smoker) | £25–£50 |
| Age 50 (office worker, non-smoker) | £40–£80+ |
| Self-employed / manual occupation | Varies by occupation |
Indicative only. Premiums depend on insurer, medical underwriting, and policy terms.
What Affects the Cost?
Age
Premiums rise as you get older because the likelihood of a claim increases over time.
Occupation
Manual, hazardous or high-stress roles cost more than desk-based jobs. Insurers assign occupation classes.
Smoking
Smokers typically pay roughly double what non-smokers pay for the same cover level.
Health
Medical history, BMI, and pre-existing conditions can increase premiums or lead to exclusions.
Deferred period
How long you wait before a claim pays. Longer deferred periods (e.g. 13 or 26 weeks) reduce cost.
Benefit level
The monthly amount you insure — usually 50–70% of gross income. Higher benefit = higher premium.
Limited vs full-term payout
Policies paying for 1–2 years only are cheaper than cover that pays until retirement age.
The biggest pricing mistake we see is clients choosing a short deferred period they do not need. If your employer pays six months' sick pay, matching your deferred period to when that ends can significantly reduce premiums — you are not paying for cover you cannot claim on anyway.
We also see people insure the maximum benefit when a lower amount would still cover essential bills. Starting with mortgage, rent, and core living costs often produces a more affordable premium without leaving you underprotected where it matters.
— Protection adviser, Your Home Finance (FCA-regulated)
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This page provides general information only and does not constitute personal financial advice. Income protection products and terms vary between providers. Your Home Finance is FCA regulated.