Life is precious, yet unpredictable. Serious health issues can strike anyone at any time, causing emotional and financial strain. That’s why having critical illness cover is a smart step to protect yourself and your loved ones against unexpected health crises.

What Is Critical Illness Cover?

Critical illness cover is a specialized type of insurance that pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a severe illness or suffer a major injury listed in your policy. Unlike traditional life insurance—which only pays out upon death—critical illness insurance offers financial support while you are still alive, helping you focus on recovery without worrying about money.

Common conditions covered by critical illness insurance include:

• Stroke
• Cancer (non-terminal)
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Severe depression
• Physical disability caused by injury
• Pregnancy-related complications

However, it’s important to note that each policy specifies exactly which illnesses and injuries are covered. Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded, and some policies may not cover illnesses like Parkinson’s disease, organ failure, or organ transplants. Always check the fine print to understand your coverage fully.

Why You Need Critical Illness Insurance

When faced with a critical illness, you might be unable to work for months or even years. This can lead to lost income, mounting bills, and financial hardship. Critical illness cover helps by providing a lump sum to:

• Cover mortgage or rent payments
• Pay for private medical treatment
• Manage household bills and daily living expenses
• Clear outstanding loans or debts
• Fund lifestyle adjustments or specialist care

This insurance acts as a vital financial safety net. It’s often purchased as an add-on to life insurance or as a standalone policy.

Types of Critical Illness Cover

You have options when choosing critical illness insurance. Understanding these can help you select the best policy for your needs.

1. Additional Critical Illness Cover

This option provides coverage for both critical illness and death. It pays out if you fall seriously ill or pass away during the policy term. Though typically more expensive, it offers peace of mind for multiple scenarios.

2. Combined Critical Illness Cover

With combined cover, the policy pays out once—either on diagnosis of a critical illness or on death, whichever happens first. This is usually more affordable but covers only one event.

3. Joint Life Critical Illness Cover

Ideal for couples, joint policies cover two people but pay out only once—on the first claim. Many prefer individual policies, but joint cover can be a cost-effective solution for partners. Notably, children are often included at no extra cost, adding extra family protection.

Choosing the Right Critical Illness Policy

Deciding on the best policy can be overwhelming. Our expert advisors are here to help. We consider your unique circumstances, including:

• Whether you want life insurance included
• How much time remains on your mortgage or other loans
• Which expenses (mortgage, debts, education fees, living costs) you want covered
• The duration of cover you need—until retirement or beyond (some policies cover up to age 75)
• Factors affecting your premiums, such as your age, health history, occupation, lifestyle, and coverage amount

Why Work with Orchard Mortgage Solutions?

At Orchard Mortgage Solutions, we tailor critical illness cover to suit your lifestyle and financial goals. Our dedicated team will walk you through your options, explain all terms clearly, and help you find the most competitive rates on the market.

Protect your future and secure peace of mind today with critical illness cover from trusted experts.

📞 Call us today 01257 543013 to speak with one of our expert advisers
📧 Or use our contact form to arrange a no-obligation consultation