How is income protection different from critical illness cover?

Critical illness cover pays a one-off lump sum when you're diagnosed with a specific serious condition. Income protection pays a regular monthly income whenever you're unable to work due to any illness or injury — not just specified conditions. Income protection is broader and continues to pay for as long as you remain unable to work.

What counts as being unable to work?

This depends on the policy definition. 'Own occupation' — the best definition — means you can't do your specific job. 'Any occupation' means you can't do any job at all. We always look for own occupation cover where possible, as it provides much stronger protection.

Does it cover mental health conditions?

Yes. Most income protection policies cover mental health conditions including depression and anxiety, provided they're not pre-existing exclusions. Mental health is now one of the most common reasons for income protection claims in the UK.

What's a deferred period and how do I choose one?

The deferred period is how long you wait before the policy starts paying out — typically 4, 8, 13, or 26 weeks. A longer deferred period means lower premiums. Choose one that matches how long your employer would pay you sick pay, or how long your savings would last.

I'm self-employed — can I still get income protection?

Absolutely. Income protection is arguably even more important if you're self-employed, since you have no sick pay at all. Insurers will typically ask for evidence of your income (accounts or tax returns) and calculate your benefit based on your earnings.

Income Protection UK 2026 | Up to 70% Salary Cover

Your income is your most valuable asset. Most people don't protect it.

Income protection pays you a monthly income if you can't work due to illness or injury — for as long as you need it. Because sick pay runs out. Savings run dry. Bills don't stop.

Covers up to 70% of your salary

Pays monthly, not a lump sum

Short and long-term options

Our FCA regulated advisers compare the whole market — finding the right deferred period, policy definition, and cover amount for your occupation and income. One call, no hard sell.

Trusted by thousands of UK customers

You can't work. Here's what happens.

The difference income protection makes — month by month.

Without cover

Weeks 1–4

Employer sick pay — if you have it.

Months 2–6

SSP kicks in — just £116 a week. Barely covers the food shop.

Month 7+

SSP ends. Savings? Benefits? Stress. The bills keep coming.

With income protection

Deferred period

Usually 4 or 13 weeks — matched to when your employer sick pay runs out.

Then...

Policy pays you up to 70% of your salary every month, tax-efficiently.

Until...

You return to work, reach retirement, or the policy term ends. You decide.

Who needs income protection most?

Self-employed people

No employer sick pay at all. If you can't work, nothing comes in. Income protection is your safety net.

Sole income earners

If your household depends on one salary, losing it — even temporarily — can be catastrophic.

Large financial commitments

Mortgage, dependants, school fees. The bills don't pause because you're unwell.

Limited employer sick pay

Many employers only pay full salary for a few months. After that, you're on your own.

Cover options explained

Short-term policies

Pay for 1–2 years max — cheaper premiums

A good option if you want to cover the gap until your savings would run out, or bridge a period before long-term benefits kick in. Lower cost, but limited duration.

Long-term policies

Pay until retirement if needed — most comprehensive

The gold standard of income protection. If a serious illness keeps you off work permanently, long-term cover pays out until you'd have retired. Higher premium, maximum security.

Own vs any occupation

The definition that really matters

'Own occupation' pays out if you can't do your specific job. 'Any occupation' only pays if you can't do any work at all — a much higher bar. We always look for own occupation cover first.

How it works

Tell us what you do and what you earn

Occupation and income both affect your premium and what you can claim. Takes under 60 seconds.

We find the right deferred period and definition

The details really matter here. We make sure the policy actually pays out when you need it — not just on paper.

Covered, fast

Most policies are active within a week. We handle the paperwork so you don't have to.

Frequently asked questions

We do not guarantee a specific premium or that cover will be offered. Eligibility and underwriting decisions are made by the insurer. Always read your policy documents carefully.

You insure your car. Insure your income.

Request a free callback and we'll find the right income protection policy for your occupation and budget.

Protect your income today

✦ See How Much You Could Save

Your income is your most valuable asset. Most people don't protect it.

✦ See How Much You Could Save