This type of protection is also known as 'dread disease cover' and is a type of insurance that pays out a lump sum on the diagnosis of certain specified illnesses. The one-off sum is paid tax free and is designed to assist with the financial consequences of a serious illness. With medical advances gaining momentum, we now stand a greater chance of surviving periods of poor health but the long term effects cannot be ignored. To assist the infirmed, changes to the home or car may be required or specialist equipment may need to be purchased. The costs can be enormous, so all the more reason for insuring with a critical illness benefit policy.

1 in 3 people in Britain will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their life.
(Imperial Cancer Research Fund statistics 9-2-2004)

This shocking statistic alone is just one of the reasons why people insure against critical illnesses. However most policies will pay out following the diagnosis of heart disease, stroke, renal failure, paralysis, major organ transplant, coronary artery bypass surgery and cancer. In fact, the range of diseases covered by a typical policy has increased over recent years and often many others are included, depending upon the provider.

There are only a few people who would not benefit from a critical illness benefit policy, so consider what you would do if you were diagnosed with one of the specified illnesses.
How would you pay for home improvements or essential medical equipment?
Would you become reliant on your family or the state?
Would you wish you had a critical illness benefit policy?

A local adviser recommended by ifasw.co.uk will find the most appropriate policy for you. Being independent, they have access to every product in the marketplace and are not restricted to those of just one provider, because they work in your interests. If you would like to discuss the benefits of this or any other protection product then remember that ifasw.co.uk is more than happy to help - Just ask us by clicking here!