Life insurance doesn't have to be used to cover just one person; it's also a useful way to protect couples, especially those with children. Joint life insurance is one option that you and your partner can take advantage of to protect your family should anything happen to either of you. 

As with every type of cover, there are pros and cons to weigh up. In this guide, we'll look at six key benefits of joint life insurance, as well as explain how it works.

What is joint life insurance?

Joint life insurance is a type of protection that covers two people under one policy.

With a standard life insurance policy, only one person is covered. When they die, the policy pays out to their chosen beneficiaries. Whereas with joint cover, the policy protects two people. It can pay out in two ways:

• First death: which pays out after the first death in the couple – after which the policy ends
   

• Second death: which pays out after both of the policyholders have passed away.

1. Joint life insurance is often more affordable

One of the biggest advantages of joint life insurance is how much it can cost. In many cases, a joint policy could be cheaper than taking out two single policies. 

Because there’s only one policy and one potential payout, insurers may offer lower overall premiums compared to two whole of life policies.

This can be especially appealing if you’re a couple who are balancing multiple financial commitments, like a mortgage, childcare costs, or household bills, and want reliable protection without stretching your budget.

As with any type of life cover, the cost will depend on facts like you and your partner's age, health, and the amount of cover you choose to take out.

2. Helps protect shared financial responsibilities

Joint life insurance is particularly well suited to couples who have shared financial commitments. This might include a joint mortgage, loans, or other debts that would be difficult for one person to manage alone.

If one partner were to pass away, the payout could help the surviving partner keep up with repayments. It could also help them or yourself avoid financial strain, and maintain stability during an already difficult time. This could be even more of an essential if you have children who depend on you.

3. Easier to manage

Because you are sharing the policy as opposed to having separate cover, everything is kept in one place.

There’s a single policy document and one premium to pay, which can make the cover simpler to manage compared to if you each had your own policies.

For many couples, this could be desirable, particularly if you prefer a more straightforward approach to financial planning. Plus, you only have one policy to review if anything changes later on. Learn more about when to review a life insurance policy.

4. Provides peace of mind for families with children

For parents, joint life insurance can offer reassurance that financial support will be available if one parent dies. The payout can be used to cover costs for everyday living, childcare, education expenses, or housing to help protect your children’s standard of living.

It's a great feeling to have knowing that your family would be financially supported if anything happens to your or your partner. It can also act as an integral part of long-term planning, particularly while your children are young and still dependent on your income.

Your policy could even be used as an inheritance, should either of you pass away once your children are grown.

5. Flexible options to suit different needs

Joint life insurance policies are available in different forms, including level term, decreasing term, and whole of life cover.

Having this option means your policy could be tailored to match what you’re protecting, whether that’s a repayment mortgage, long-term family security, or inheritance planning.

Policies can also often be written in trust, helping ensure the payout goes to your intended beneficiaries quickly and efficiently.

6. Can include critical illness cover

Another great benefit is that you can add additional protection to your policy, such as critical illness cover. This means that if either of you is diagnosed with a serious medical condition, the policy can pay out a lump sum. 

It could help cover medical costs, replace lost income, or maintain your family’s lifestyle without dipping into savings.

The downside is that if the policy pays out for a critical illness first, the policy will end thereafter.

Who needs joint life insurance?

Joint cover isn’t just for families, it can also be suitable for:

• Couples with a joint mortgage

• Parents or guardians

• Business partners

• Civil partners

Even if you don’t have children, joint life insurance can give peace of mind that your partner will be financially secure if the worst happens.

Is joint life insurance right for you?

While joint life insurance offers clear benefits, it won’t be the right solution for everyone. Because most joint policies pay out once and then end, the surviving partner may still need to arrange new cover later on.

For some couples, particularly those with more complex needs, it may make more sense to have separate single policies based on both of your individual needs.

There’s also other aspects to think about such as divorce or separation which may require the cover to be amended or replaced entirely.

Getting advice

If you’re unsure whether you need joint life insurance our team of friendly advisers are here to help. They can provide expert guidance on the types of policies available and which may be suitable based on your circumstances. Call 01392 241 850 today for advice (Monday to Friday, 10am to 6.30pm).

Or, if you know exactly what you need you can apply for an online life insurance quote. With our easy-to-use online form you could be covered in up to 30 minutes!

At some stage in life, most people need a financial plan for the future. Without one, your family or loved ones could be left in a vulnerable position if something were to happen to you.

There are lots of financial products that can play a role in long-term planning, but life insurance is often one of the most straightforward and dependable forms of protection. It’s designed to provide financial security at a critical time, helping to ease financial pressure on the people you leave behind.

In this guide, we’ll look at how life insurance fits into financial planning, when it may be worth considering, and how it can support your wider financial goals, both now and in the future.

Why consider life insurance in your long-term financial plan?

Life insurance can play an important role in your long-term financial plan, whether you’re protecting a mortgage, planning for retirement, or thinking about how your family would cope financially in your absence.

A life insurance policy can pay out a cash lump sum to your loved ones when you die. This money can be used to help cover essential costs such as mortgage repayments, household bills, childcare, or other outstanding debts, helping to reduce financial pressure at an already difficult time.

Unlike some financial products that depend on market performance, life insurance provides a clear and defined benefit. This can make it easier to plan alongside other financial arrangements you may already have in place.

When is the right time to purchase life insurance for financial planning?

There's never a wrong time to get life insurance. It can be useful at all stages of life, whether you're a young adult or approaching retirement.

In most cases, it will reflect your personal circumstances and financial responsibilities. You may be considering life insurance as you have dependants.

In other cases, you may have long-term debts to cover, or a desire to protect savings and assets you've been or are starting to build.

It’s also worth noting that life cover is generally cheaper when you are younger and in good health. Buying a policy earlier could allow you to secure lower premiums, even if your need for protection increases later on.

For more information, please see our guide on 'When Should I Think About Getting Life Insurance?'.

What are the different types of life insurance available?

Life insurance cover comes in many forms, but two of the main types of policies are whole and term life insurance. Here's how they work:

Whole life insurance

Whole of life insurance is a form of permanent protection. What this means is that the length of the policy is continuous and therefore has no expiry date. As long as you pay your premiums, the policy should pay out regardless of when you die.

Because the cover is ongoing, premiums tend to be higher than term life insurance. However, it provides certainty and peace of mind that your loved ones will receive the payout whenever it’s needed.

This type of cover could also be useful for planning inheritance, covering long-term debts, or making sure funeral costs are taken care of.

It’s also sometimes referred to as “life assurance”.

Term life insurance

Term life insurance provides cover for a set period, typically between 5 and 50 years.

If you die during the term, your policy pays out a lump sum as agreed. However, if you survive the term, the cover ends, and no payout is made.

This cover can be purchased in three forms:

• Level: Where the policy premium and payout amount remain fixed throughout
   

• Decreasing: Where the policy is used to cover a debt, such as a mortgage. The payout decreases over time as repayments are made.
   

• Increasing: Where the payout value increases over time to combat inflation. In doing so, your premiums will also increase alongside this.

Term life insurance is usually cheaper than whole life insurance because the payout is not guaranteed for life; it only applies if death occurs during the policy term.

Joint life insurance

Some term or whole life policies can be used to cover two people. Joint life policies can often be used by couples with shared responsibilities, such as a joint mortgage.

A joint life plan typically pays out on the first death, though some policies pay out on the second death.

Cover may even work out cheaper than buying two separate policies. See: Joint Life Insurance vs Single for more information.

Please note: The insurance products offered by Cavendish Online have no cash-in value at any time. If you stop paying your premiums your cover will stop, your policy will end, and you will receive no benefit. If you have not claimed before the end of your chosen policy term, the policy will end, and no benefit will be paid.

Which life insurance policy is best suited for retirement planning?

If you're planning for retirement, the best policy will often depend on your individual circumstances, such as your age, health, existing savings, and any ongoing financial obligations.

Each policy can cover you in different ways and may suit one situation over another.

Because whole life insurance can provide permanent protection, it may be useful for covering funeral costs, leaving a legacy, or supporting dependants beyond retirement.

Whereas term life insurance could run until your planned retirement age, covering mortgage repayments, financial protection for your children, or other outstanding debts. It can also be purchased as over-50s cover for those who may not be able to afford higher premiums at this stage in life.

For extra protection, critical Illness cover can be added to term or whole life policies. This pays a lump sum if you are diagnosed with a serious medical condition, helping to cover medical costs, maintain your lifestyle, or reduce financial pressure without dipping into savings.

Income protection insurance is another option to consider, especially if your retirement planning depends on your salary. It provides a regular income if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury, helping you stay on top of mortgage or loan payments, maintain living standards, and continue contributing to pensions and savings.

How much life insurance do I need as part of a financial plan?

The amount of life insurance you need will depend on your personal circumstances and financial goals. While life insurance alone won’t cover every eventuality, it can make a significant difference to your family’s future funds if something happens to you.

As a starting point, you might consider:

• Outstanding debts: Covering your mortgage, loans, or other significant debts.
   

• Income replacement: Allowing your loved ones to maintain their lifestyle if they lose your earnings.
   

• Future financial commitments: Funding costs such as children’s education or ongoing care for dependants.
   

• Funeral and end-of-life expenses: Making sure these are taken care of without adding financial pressure on your family.

What are the tax implications of life insurance in financial planning?

Life insurance payouts are generally tax-free, meaning the lump sum isn’t treated as income. However, policies outside a trust may form part of your estate, and Inheritance Tax could apply.

Writing a policy in trust can ensure payouts go directly to your beneficiaries, bypass probate, and provide more certainty when your loved ones need the money.

Trusts can be particularly useful for large estates or minor beneficiaries.

Common misconceptions about life insurance in financial planning

Life insurance is often misunderstood, especially if you're not sure about the ins and outs. Here are a few misconceptions people tend to think:

It’s too expensive.

Many people assume life insurance is costly. In reality, term life insurance can be surprisingly affordable, especially if purchased at a younger age or for a fixed term aligned with your financial obligations.

Choosing the right type and term of cover could make it fit comfortably within your budget.

I’m healthy, so I don’t need it yet.

Even if you’re young and healthy, purchasing life insurance early can lock in lower premiums. Waiting until later could mean higher costs or potential exclusions if health changes.

Life insurance is only for mortgage protection.

While mortgage cover is a common use, life insurance can support a wide range of financial responsibilities, from childcare and education costs to estate planning or providing a safety net for dependants.

Savings alone are enough.

Personal savings are important to have, but they are not guaranteed. Life insurance provides a reliable, immediate payout that your family can rely on, giving certainty in ways that savings alone often cannot.

Over-50s insurance is too late to plan.

Though it’s true premiums can rise with age, having cover for later life can still be valuable. Over-50s policies or whole life insurance can cover funeral costs, final expenses, and provide peace of mind that loved ones won’t inherit any debt.

When you apply for life insurance, insurers don’t just look at your age and health. Your lifestyle plays a big role in how risk is assessed and can directly affect whether you’re accepted, how much you pay, and the terms of your policy.

Below, we explain the key lifestyle factors insurers consider and why they matter.

Why insurers assess lifestyle risks

Your life insurance premium is based on your risk. Insurers use lifestyle information to estimate how likely it is that a claim will be made during the policy term.

Some habits increase the risk of serious illness or early death, while others suggest a lower risk. The higher the perceived risk, the higher your monthly premiums are likely to be.

Note: Always give full and accurate details, as withholding information could affect your ability to make a claim later.

What lifestyle factors impact life insurance premiums?

Smoking, vaping and nicotine use

Smoking is one of the biggest factors affecting life insurance premiums. It's well documented the health risks it can cause, such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems.

Insurers usually ask if you:

• Smoke cigarettes or cigars

• Vape or use e-cigarettes

• Use nicotine replacement products

If you’ve used nicotine (even vaping) within the last 12 months, most insurers will classify you as a smoker. This can significantly increase premiums.

If you stop smoking and remain nicotine-free for a set period, you may be able to reapply for lower premiums.

Alcohol consumption

Your height and weight are used to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI), which insurers use as one indicator of potential long-term health risks.

A BMI outside the recommended range may result in higher premiums, while maintaining a stable weight and staying physically active can be viewed positively. Significant changes in weight over a short period of time may also prompt insurers to ask further questions.

BMI is assessed differently depending on your family background:

If you have a White family background, BMI is typically classed as:

• Under 18.5 – underweight

• 18.5 to 24.9 – within the healthy range

• 25 to 29.9 – overweight

• 30 to 39.9 – obesity

• 40 or above – severe obesity

If you have an Asian, Chinese, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean family background, lower BMI thresholds are used:

• 23 to 27.4 – overweight

• 27.5 or above – obese

(Source: NHS Inform).

A higher BMI could increase the risk of developing certain conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

BMI is only one factor, but it can influence how insurers assess long-term health risk.

Diet and general health

While insurers don’t usually ask detailed questions about your diet, your overall health and lifestyle habits can still impact how your application is assessed.

Healthy day-to-day routines give insurers confidence that you are managing your long-term health risks.

Some of the factors they may consider include:

• Managing existing conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Showing that these are controlled through diet, medication, or lifestyle changes can help.

• Maintaining a balanced lifestyle, including regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and stress management.

• Evidence of ongoing health management, like regular check-ups, following medical advice, and proactive steps to reduce risk.

Healthy habits may help offset other risk factors, making you less likely to develop serious health issues and potentially leading to lower premiums.

A poor diet or an unmanaged medical condition, however, could increase the likelihood of higher costs.

Hobbies and high-risk sports

Leisure activities can also affect life insurance, as insurers consider the potential for injury or death outside of work.

Examples of activities that may lead to higher premiums or exclusions include:

• Extreme sports such as skydiving, mountaineering, or rock climbing

• Scuba diving

• Motor racing or motorsport hobbies

• Flying private planes or certain aviation hobbies

Insurers may ask how frequently you participate in these activities, how experienced you are, and what safety precautions you take. In some cases, you may face higher premiums, policy exclusions, or additional questions to assess risk.

Travel and overseas living

Frequent travel or long-term stays abroad can affect life insurance, especially if you visit countries considered higher risk.

They may ask about:

• Destinations (countries with limited healthcare or higher political risk can affect premiums)

• Frequency of travel

• Purpose of travel, such as work or leisure

Travel to high-risk areas doesn’t automatically exclude you from cover, but it may lead to higher premiums or policy restrictions depending on the insurer.

Mental health

Mental health is treated with increasing understanding, but it is still a factor insurers consider. Such conditions can range from anxiety or depression to bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.

If you disclose you have a mental health condition they may ask about:

• The type of condition you have

• What medication are you taking, if any

• Whether you've had time off work related to mental health

• If you've been hospitalised due to your condition

Well-managed conditions with long periods of stability are often viewed more favourably than recent or ongoing issues. Learn more about mental health and life insurance.

Drug use and substance history

Insurers will ask about recreational drug use, both now and in the past.

This includes:

• Illegal substances

• Misuse of prescriptions

Drug use can lead to exclusions, higher premiums, or declined applications depending on frequency and type.

What other factors can impact life insurance?

Alongside your lifestyle habits, insurers will also consider practical details about your cover and circumstances. These can include:

• The type of life insurance you choose, such as term life insurance or whole of life insurance

• The length of cover and the amount you want to insure

• Your age when the policy starts

• Whether the policy is single or joint

Different types of cover suit different needs. For example, term life insurance is often used to protect a mortgage or provide for children while they’re financially dependent.

Whereas whole of life insurance is designed to provide lifelong cover and is often used for estate planning or funeral costs.

The type of policy you choose plays a role in both cost and underwriting. It'll also cost more if you have any additional protection, such as critical illness cover.

Why you need to be honest when applying for life cover

It’s essential to answer lifestyle questions fully and truthfully when applying for life insurance. This helps insurers assess your application correctly to make sure your cover works as expected when your family needs it most.

Providing incorrect or incomplete information (especially around smoking, alcohol, or drug use) could lead to:

• A reduced payout

• A delay in processing a claim

• In some cases, a claim being declined

If you’re unsure how to answer a question or whether something needs to be disclosed, you can speak to one of our advisers for expert guidance. We can help you get it right from the start and avoid issues later on.

Can lifestyle changes reduce your premiums?

In many cases, yes. Making positive lifestyle changes could improve how your risk is assessed and may allow you to apply for lower monthly premiums in the future.

This can include:

• Quitting smoking or vaping

• Reducing alcohol intake

• Improving fitness or reaching a healthier weight

• Changing jobs or no longer taking part in high-risk hobbies

Some people choose to replace or review their policy after making these changes. While lower premiums aren’t guaranteed, it can be worthwhile exploring your options if your lifestyle has improved since you first took out cover.

Getting the right cover for your lifestyle

No two lifestyles are the same, and life insurers don’t all assess risk in the same way. That’s why comparing policies and getting expert advice can make a real difference.

Our advisers can:

• Identify insurers who are more flexible with certain lifestyle factors

• Explain how your habits may affect your premiums or policy terms

• Help you find cover that fits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term needs

By getting the right guidance from the start, you can feel confident that your life insurance provides the protection your loved ones need, without paying more than necessary.

Buying a life insurance policy can seem daunting at first. Nobody wants to think about a future in which we're no longer around; nevertheless, your family deserves peace of mind. 

Life insurance is designed to help provide your loved ones with financial support for the future ahead. But before you decide to purchase a life insurance policy, consider these key questions...

Do I need life insurance?

Not everyone feels the need to buy life insurance, yet it could provide a big helping hand for your family and/or loved ones. If you have dependents, you really can't afford to overlook this important financial product.

Consider your current situation: do you have children, a partner/spouse, or anyone who relies on your income? If the answer is yes, life insurance can help ensure they are financially protected in the event of your untimely passing.

It can be used in several ways, such as:

• Providing financial support for your family/loved ones
   

• To replace lost income
   

• To cover a mortgage or other debts
   

• Funding your children's education
   

• Covering funeral expenses and other end-of-life expenses
   

• To act as a legacy

You may already have life insurance through your employer, in which case you should evaluate whether that policy is sufficient. If not, you could benefit from taking out a policy of your own, especially if you change jobs.

Which type of cover should I buy?

Life insurance is designed to pay out a cash lump sum to your loved ones in the event of your death. The amount they receive depends on the type of policy you choose, as does the amount of cover you buy.

There are two main types of life insurance cover - whole life insurance and term life insurance. These policies share similarities as well as differences, mainly in terms of cost and length. It's important to understand how these cover types work, so you can figure out which works best for you.

Whole life insurance

• Has no expiry date - the policy lasts for the rest of your life (so long as you keep paying your premiums)
   

• Pays out a lump sum to your loved ones, no matter when you die
   

• Typically has higher premiums than term life insurance

There are two types of whole life insurance:

• Standard cover: Your premiums and payout value are fixed throughout your cover as agreed with your insurance provider. Buying this cover when you are younger can lock in a cheaper premium rate, saving you money in the long run.
   

• Maximum cover: Your cover is linked to an investment fund, which your insurer pays into each month using the money from your premiums. If the investment is successful, you may receive a bonus, which is paid into your policy. However, if it fails, your premiums may be raised to cover the loss.

Please note: The insurance products offered by Cavendish Online have no cash-in value at any time. If you stop paying your premiums your cover will stop, your policy will end, and you will receive no benefit. 

If you are facing financial difficulty, please contact your insurer before cancelling your policy or letting it lapse. They may have options available that means you don't have to lose the plan.

Term life insurance

• Protects you for a set period of time (i.e. 20 years)

• The policy only pays out if you die within this time

• Premiums for term life insurance are usually much cheaper than whole life

Term life insurance has 3 levels of cover:

• Level term: The cost of your premiums is fixed throughout the policy term. The death benefit of the policy also stays the same regardless of when you die during the term.
   

• Increasing term: The pay out value of your policy increases over time to try and help to protect the eventual amount from inflation. The downside to this is that your premiums will also increase.
   

• Decreasing term: Typically taken out to cover large payments, such as repayment type mortgages. The policy pay-out decreases over the term of the policy, usually by a set percentage agreed at the policy outset. 

To sum up, if you're looking for a long-term solution for life cover, then a whole life policy may well be your best option. However, if you want cheaper premiums, then term life insurance may be a better choice for cover.

Joint life insurance

Alternatively, you can opt for joint life insurance. This provides cover for two people under a single policy. It's an ideal choice for couples wanting to protect their partner if they die. It could also work out cheaper than buying two separate single-life policies.

Joint life insurance policies can be term or whole, and you can purchase a plan to payout on the first or second death. Premiums for these plans are fixed, unless you choose to add indexation.

The type of cover you choose could ultimately affect your premiums. Don’t forget about add-ons, such as income protection - they can also lead to higher rates.

Should I add critical illness to my policy?

While death is one event to be prepared for, illness can also happen suddenly and can impact your financial situation just as much.

Adding critical illness cover to your life insurance policy can provide additional peace of mind and financial support if you are diagnosed with a severe illness, such as cancer, a heart attack, or a stroke.

Critical illness cover pays out a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the specified conditions covered by your policy, during the policy term.

This payout can help cover any bills or expenses that may arise due to the illness, allowing you to focus on recovery without any added stress. However, the policy will only pay out once.

How much cover will I need?

Everyone has different needs for cover, so figuring out an ideal amount can go a long way in keeping your loved ones protected. 

For example, if you have a large family, you could require more cover compared to someone with no children. Likewise, if you have debts, such as a mortgage or loans, you may want to factor those into your cover amount.

Consider factors such as:

• Current and future debts
   

• Ongoing living expenses for your family or loved ones
   

• Childcare costs
   

• Potential income replacement needed for your dependents
   

• Any other financial goals or obligations you have

Remember, the more cover you take out, the higher your monthly premiums could be. Instead, focus on a policy that covers any current or potential financial commitments your loved ones may face.

Additionally, you may want to review your policy regularly, as your needs may change over time. If you find that you no longer need the same level of cover, you can always adjust your policy accordingly.

At what age should I get life insurance cover?

The older we get, the more likely we are to be diagnosed with a medical condition that could increase the cost of cover, or even cause us to be declined altogether.

The best time to get life insurance is when you are young and healthy. This is because premiums for life insurance cover are often based on age and health. The younger and healthier you are, the lower your premiums may be.

How much will a life insurance policy cost me?

There's no flat rate for how much a life insurance policy will cost. Instead, premiums can vary based on several factors. These include:

• Age
   

• Gender
   

• Health & medical history
   

• Occupation
   

• Cover amount
   

• Policy type

Two of the biggest factors for buying life insurance are age and health. The older you become, the higher you can expect the pay when applying for a policy. The same also goes for if you have any pre-existing medical  conditions. With this in mind, it's often cheaper to buy cover when you are younger.

Consider the cost of your monthly premiums over the policy term. The last thing you want is to be unable to pay premiums later down the line. While the cost of a policy may seem manageable, consider how your situation might change.

Can I still get life insurance if I smoke?

Smoking can also have a big impact on how much you pay each month for cover. Not only is it bad for your health, but it can lower your life expectancy, therefore increasing your premiums for life insurance. Depending on the provider, your premiums may be lowered (provided you've stayed smoke-free for at least 12 months, typically subject to a cotinine test).

For more information, please see our guide on life insurance for smokers.

What happens if I cancel my life insurance policy?

If you decide you no longer need life insurance or can no longer afford premiums, then it may be possible to cancel your policy. In most cases, this option is only available for whole of life policies.

Most insurers have a 30-day cooling-off period once your policy begins. If you cancel the policy within this time period you'll receive a refund for the premium paid. Beyond this time, you won't receive a refund if you cancel.

If you cancel your policy, you will lose any cover and benefits associated. Additionally, you may face higher premiums due to age or changes to your health if you decide to purchase a new policy in the future.

If you are facing financial difficulties and can no longer afford your premiums, please contact your insurer as soon as possible to stop the plan from lapsing automatically. They may have options available that allow you to keep the cover in place.

Should I write my policy in trust?

While the proceeds from your life insurance won't be taxed in the same way as other assets, writing your policy in trust can help ensure that the payout goes directly to your beneficiaries without going through probate.

If your estate exceeds the Inheritance Tax threshold (£325,000), it will be taxed.

Once your policy is written in trust, the benefits can be paid out directly to your chosen beneficiaries. In doing so, it bypasses the often lengthy and complex probate process. This can provide faster financial support to your loved ones during a difficult time, plus it won't be liable for inheritance tax.

Apply for a quote in minutes

At Cavendish Online, we are committed to providing the best value for life insurance cover. You can apply for a quote in just minutes by using our online form. Or if you seek further guidance, you can speak to one of our trained life insurance advisors. Give your loved ones the peace of mind they deserve by applying for a policy today.

The last few years have brought their fair share of challenges, from the ongoing cost-of-living crisis to wider global uncertainty. As we move into 2026, while no one knows exactly what the future holds, most people are clearer than ever about what – and who – matters most to them.

If you have children, a partner, or other family members who depend on your income to cover living costs or keep a roof over their heads, 2026 could be the right time to make family life insurance part of your financial planning.

You can’t rely on the government to take care of your family – the money they would get from the state is much lower than you’d probably expect. With that in mind, here are a few tips to think about if you plan to take out life insurance in 2026.

A resolution worth sticking to

The good news is that if you’re looking for a life insurance policy, there’s never been a better time to arrange cover. With more online options available, getting protected is now quicker and more straightforward than ever.

Life insurance is also often good value for money, especially when you consider that premiums can work out at just a few pence a day. In general, the younger you are when you take out a policy, the lower your monthly premiums are likely to be.

To understand what type and level of life insurance you need, it’s important to consider your personal circumstances. This includes savings, mortgages, rent, and any existing credit arrangements.

As everyone’s situation is different, so is the type of protection you need and depends on your personal situation and what stage you are in life.

Take stock of who depends on you

Life insurance can help provide peace of mind that your loved ones would be financially supported if the worst were to happen.

One of the most important starting points is understanding who would be affected financially if you were no longer around. This could include:

• A partner or spouse

• Children or stepchildren

• Other family members who rely on your income

Think about day-to-day living costs, childcare, housing, and future expenses. In doing so, you’ll have a better understanding of how much cover you may need and for how long.

Know what you need and why

Before you apply for cover, think about what you want your policy to do.

Perhaps you need a policy to help:

• Cover day-to-day living costs for dependants if you die

• Pay off debts like mortgages or loans

• Provide for children’s education

• Leave a lump sum for a partner or family

• Cover your funeral costs

Even a simple list of what matters most to protect can give you a clearer picture of the cover that fits your situation. It may also help you feel confident that you’re not paying for extra cover you don’t actually need.

Gather the details

Having the right information ready makes the application smoother and quicker. You’ll usually need to know:

• Your personal details, including date of birth

• Your income and current financial commitments

• The type of policy you want (term, whole of life, joint, etc.)

• Any health conditions or medications

• Lifestyle habits like smoking, alcohol, exercise, and hobbies

Having this information on hand should reduce the chance of delays and make the process much quicker.

Consider your health and lifestyle

Your health and lifestyle can affect the type of cover you’re offered and how much it costs. Things to review include:

• Smoking, vaping, and nicotine use

• Alcohol intake

• Weight, fitness, and BMI

• Existing medical conditions

• High-risk hobbies or travel

Even small improvements to your lifestyle, like quitting smoking or getting more active, could be enough to lower your monthly premium.

Know which type of life insurance you need

The two main types of life insurance are term life insurance and whole of life insurance.

Term life insurance

Term life insurance runs for a fixed period of time (known as the ‘term’ of the policy), usually between 5 -50 years. It only pays out if you die during the term.

This type of cover is often associated with mortgages, as it can help your dependants pay off outstanding borrowing if you were to die. Many term policies are set up as decreasing term insurance, meaning the payout reduces over time as your mortgage balance reduces.

Whole of life insurance

Whole of life insurance pays out whenever you die, as long as you continue to pay your premiums. These premiums are usually fixed, making it easier to plan long term.

This type of policy can be a good option if you want lifelong protection, help with estate planning, or reassurance that a payout will be made regardless of when the claim occurs.

Please note: The insurance products offered by Cavendish Online have no cash-in value at any time. If you stop paying your premiums your cover will stop, your policy will end, and you will receive no benefit. If you have not claimed before the end of your chosen policy term, the policy will end, and no benefit will be paid. 

If you are facing financial difficulties and can no longer afford your premiums, please contact your insurer as soon as possible to stop the plan from lapsing automatically. They may have a scheme that allows you to keep the cover.

Decide whether to go solo or joint

If you and your partner share financial responsibilities, it may also be worth considering a joint life insurance policy.

Joint life insurance covers two people under one policy and usually pays out on the first death. This lump sum can help the surviving partner manage mortgage payments, household bills, or other financial commitments during a difficult time.

For some couples, joint cover offers a simpler and more cost-effective way to protect shared finances.

Review your cover for 2026

If you already have a life insurance policy, the start of a new year is a good opportunity to review it. Changes such as having children, moving home or changing jobs, can all affect how much cover you need.

A review could also highlight whether you’re paying more than necessary or if your policy no longer reflects your current situation.

What affects the cost of your cover?

When you apply for life insurance, insurers will assess factors such as your:

• Age

• General health (including whether you smoke or vape)

• Occupation

• Lifestyle

These details help insurers assess risk and calculate how much your monthly premium will be. Even small changes, such as stopping smoking or reducing financial commitments, could make a difference over time.

Getting a quote

At Cavendish Online, we’re committed to giving you the information you need to make an informed decision. You can compare low-cost life insurance quotes and could be covered within 30 minutes. All you need to do is provide some details such as:

• Your name and date of birth

• The type of policy you want

• The amount of cover required

• How long you want the policy to last (for term insurance)

• Details of any health conditions

If you’re applying on your own, it helps to know what level of cover you need and are confident to write your policy in trust.

If you’d prefer guidance, our life insurance experts are on hand to answer questions and help you choose a policy that fits your circumstances, especially if you have health conditions or are unsure which type of cover is right.

Get in touch

Whatever 2026 brings, having the right life insurance in place can offer reassurance that your loved ones are protected.

If you don’t currently have cover, or you’re unsure whether your existing policy still meets your needs, the team at Cavendish Online is here to help.

People often start thinking about life insurance when a major event nudges them into action. For some, it is a new mortgage. For others, the arrival of a child. But if you fall into a higher risk category, the process can feel more complicated than it should. 

It is not always clear what counts as high risk, how life insurance companies make their decisions, or what you can do if you have health conditions, a high-risk occupation, or certain lifestyle habits.

This guide is an honest walk-through of the questions people ask most often, with enough detail to help you feel prepared before you begin a life insurance application. 

If you want guidance during the process, our team can compare options from a wide range of insurers and help you understand what might be suitable for your circumstances.

Do I Need High-Risk Life Insurance?

You might.

High-risk policies are usually designed for people whose risk factors are above average, whether due to medical conditions, extreme sports, or work in roles such as the armed forces, police officers, rescue workers, offshore oil rig workers, or those in the fishing industry. Even some construction workers or people who handle heavy machinery regularly fall into this category.

High-risk cover becomes important when your work, hobbies or health put you in situations where the chances of something going wrong are a little higher than average. It is really about easing the pressure on the people around you so they are not left trying to sort out debts, mortgages or funeral costs at a difficult time.

What Is Considered High Risk for Life Insurance?

There is no universal checklist, but insurers tend to look at a mix of details. Some relate to your job, others to your lifestyle or medical background. Examples include:

• Long-term or unstable medical conditions
   

• A pre-existing medical condition such as heart issues or diabetes
   

• High alcohol consumption
   

• Frequent travel to remote or higher-risk areas (your travel frequency matters here)
   

• Roles in law enforcement, emergency services, or physically hazardous environments
   

• Regular participation in extreme sports
   

• Working at heights above 12m / 40ft)

Your medical history, including your family medical history, also matters because it helps insurers understand how likely a future insurance claim may be.

What Affects High-Risk Life Insurance Policies?

Most decisions come down to how the insurer interprets your situation. Each insurance provider has its own approach, but several themes appear again and again:

• Whether your work is classified as a high-risk occupation
   

• Whether you have any high-risk hobbies
   

• The stability of your medical records
   

• Where you travel and how often
   

• Your age, lifestyle habits and general health
   

• Whether you apply for additional cover like critical illness cover, income protection, or family income benefit

If you want to explore one of these add-ons in more depth, we have a dedicated guide on critical illness insurance that explains what it covers and how it works for different health backgrounds.

Even subtle differences in your health or work routine could influence policy costs. Someone with moderate asthma, for instance, might find that good symptom control makes the process far smoother than expected.

What Will the Insurer Need to Know?

Before an insurer can decide on your application, they usually want to get a feel for your general health and what day-to-day life looks like for you. That might include things like any treatment you have had, how well a pre-existing medical condition is being managed, or whether you have had recent tests or follow-up appointments.

Your travel frequency, how active you are, and the sorts of hobbies you enjoy can influence things too, especially if you take part in extreme sports or activities with a higher chance of injury.

People are sometimes taken aback when they are asked about issues such as sleep problems or joint pain, but the aim is not to catch anyone out. The insurer is simply trying to build a realistic sense of your overall situation so the policy reflects your actual level of risk.

What Will the Insurer Need to Know?

Before an insurer can decide on your application, they usually want to get a feel for your general health and what day-to-day life looks like for you. That might include things like any treatment you have had, how well a pre-existing medical condition is being managed, or whether you have had recent tests or follow-up appointments.

Your travel frequency, how active you are, and the sorts of hobbies you enjoy can influence things too, especially if you take part in extreme sports or activities with a higher chance of injury.

People are sometimes taken aback when they are asked about issues such as sleep problems or joint pain, but the aim is not to catch anyone out. The insurer is simply trying to build a realistic sense of your overall situation so the policy reflects your actual level of risk.

Do I Need a Medical Exam to Get Life Insurance?

Not always.

Some high-risk applicants move through the entire process without being asked for any extra checks, while others may be asked to complete a short medical examination just so the insurer has a clear, up-to-date picture of their health.

Most of the time, the check is quick. It is often done at home or at a nearby clinic, and it tends to be over before you have much time to think about it.

How Does Having a High-Risk Job Affect Life Insurance Premiums?

Work that regularly places you in risky situations can push premiums up, but not in a uniform way. One insurer may view your duties as routine, while another might see the same tasks as significantly more hazardous. Their interpretation varies more than people expect.

Jobs that commonly fall into higher-risk categories include:

• Emergency services
   

• Construction workers
   

• Armed forces personnel
   

• Police officers
   

• Rescue workers
   

• Offshore oil rig workers
   

• People in the fishing industry

We work with insurers who understand these environments and who are sometimes able to offer more accommodating options for people with demanding or unusual roles.

Can High-Risk Applicants Secure Life Insurance?

Plenty of people with higher risk backgrounds secure cover each year, even when they assume they will struggle. Sometimes it simply takes finding the right insurer or working with insurance intermediaries who know which companies take a more flexible view.

For people comparing different types of protection, you might find our guide Should I Get Life Insurance With Income Protection? helpful when deciding whether to combine policies.

Some applicants also choose to pair life insurance with other products, such as critical illness cover or an over 50s plan depending on age and health. If you want more detail on that, see our article What is Over 50s Life Insurance and do I need it?.

How Much Does High-Risk Life Insurance Cost?

There is no fixed cost. Premiums depend on:

• Your age
   

• The type of risk
   

• Your overall health
   

• Your medical history
   

• The length of the policy
   

• Whether you choose add-ons like family income benefit
   

• How the insurer interprets your risk factors

If you want guidance on working out the right level of cover, you might find our piece How Much Life Cover Do I Need? useful.

Getting a few insurance quotes is often the best way to see how differently insurers interpret the same information.

Reducing Your Risk to Get Cheaper Life Insurance

You cannot change every factor, but some things are within your control. For many people, the most helpful changes are fairly ordinary ones: keeping on top of medical conditions, cutting back on alcohol consumption if that is relevant, sticking to proper safety practices at work, and staying up to date with routine medical check-ins. 

Being open and precise on your application form also helps the insurer understand your circumstances properly. When these day-to-day habits are consistent, insurers tend to view the overall picture more favourably, and that can make a difference to policy costs.

Will I Need a Medical Exam if I’m High Risk?

Sometimes, but not always. Some insurers rely entirely on existing medical records, GP summaries or past test results. Others may need confirmation of a specific detail, particularly for higher levels of cover or more complex medical circumstances.

The exam itself is usually quick and is simply there to clarify information, not challenge it.

Do I Really Need High-Risk Life Insurance?

If your work, hobbies or health expose you to a higher-than-average level of danger, high-risk cover can be a practical safety net. It is not about expecting the worst, but about protecting the people closest to you if something unexpected happens.

Rather than being an extra cost, high-risk life insurance can be the piece that ensures your family is not left handling debts or funeral costs alone.

If you want help comparing options or understanding what might suit your situation best, call our team on

01392 436193 (Monday – Friday 9am – 5.30pm)

People usually take out life insurance because they want to remove at least one future worry. If something happens, they want to know their family will not also be left trying to cover costs or make difficult financial decisions.

What often gets less attention is the waiting period that applies to many policies. It is there in the paperwork, but it is easy to pass over when you are concentrating on premium payments or the overall cover amount.

For anyone looking at an over 50 life insurance plan, the waiting period matters. It affects when an insurance payout will be made and what happens if a claim is made sooner than expected.

What is a life insurance waiting period?

A life insurance waiting period is the time at the start of a policy when the insurance company limits what it will pay if a claim is made.

If death occurs during this period, the policy may not pay the full benefit. In many cases, the insurance company will return the premium payments made so far rather than paying the full insurance payout. What applies depends on the policy type and the cause of death.

Waiting periods are set out in the policy schedule and supporting documents. They are not hidden, but they are easy to miss if the main focus is on price rather than how the cover actually works.

Why do Over 50s life insurance plans have waiting periods?

Over 50s life insurance is designed to be accessible. Most plans do not require access to medical records or a full medical assessment, which allows people with existing medical conditions to apply without difficulty.

This approach is particularly relevant for people with pre-existing conditions, as it allows cover to be put in place without medical exams or full health underwriting, while still limiting early claims.

Because insurers are not reviewing medical records or asking detailed health questions at the start, they limit early claims instead. The waiting period helps the insurance company manage its risk profile by reducing the chance of immediate claims linked to conditions that were already present when the policy began.

In return, applicants are accepted automatically and premiums remain fixed, provided the policy stays active.

How does the waiting period work in practice?

Most Over 50s life insurance policies include a death benefit waiting period, commonly between 12 and 24 months.

If death occurs from natural causes during this time, the policy usually refunds the premiums paid. Once the waiting period ends, the policy pays the full sum assured as a lump sum.

Accidental death is often treated differently and may be covered immediately, even during the waiting period. This varies by insurer and by policy type, so the wording should always be checked.

Suicide clause waiting period

Life insurance policies almost always include a suicide exclusion period, including Over 50s plans.

If death occurs as a result of suicide within the first 12 months, the insurance company will not pay the full benefit. Premiums paid may be returned instead. This approach is standard across the market and applies to most options, including level life insurance and decreasing life insurance.

Factors that affect waiting periods

Waiting periods are influenced by the type of policy chosen, whether medical information is required, how health questions are answered, and the level of financial protection selected.

Policies such as level life insurance or decreasing life insurance that involve some level of underwriting often come with fewer restrictions at the start, while simpler products rely more heavily on waiting periods.

Why insurers include waiting periods at all

Waiting periods exist to control pricing.

Without them, insurance companies would need to charge more to cover the risk of early claims. Limiting payouts at the beginning allows providers to offer broader options for cover while keeping premiums affordable over the long term.

This is especially important for plans like Over 50s insurance because they are not medically underwritten. In comparison, term life insurance plans and whole life insurance plans are medically underwritten at application, so any risk to the insurer - medical conditions, dangerous jobs/hobbies etc - are factored into the price of the premiums.

Is an Over 50s policy still worth it?

For many people, it is.

Over 50s life insurance is often used to cover funeral costs, help with everyday living expenses for loved ones, or form part of inheritance tax planning. 

Some people compare these policies with funeral plans, although life insurance usually offers more flexibility over how the money is used.

As with any financial product, it is important to understand the limitations as well as the benefits.

It can also be worth it to those who can’t obtain standard life insurance due to pre-existing medical conditions, as in some circumstances some cover is still better than no cover.

What to check before you apply

Before choosing a policy, it is sensible to look at how long the waiting period lasts, what happens if a death claim is made during that time, whether accidental death is covered straight away, and whether the policy builds any surrender value over time.

It is also worth considering how the cover fits into your wider financial protection plans. Reading the policy documents, including the privacy policy, or speaking with a financial advisor can help avoid problems later.

A practical note on peace of mind

Life insurance is rarely just about the person taking out the policy. It is about reducing pressure on the people left behind.

Knowing how waiting periods work from the start avoids surprises. Whether the aim is to plan ahead or simply cover future costs, understanding the detail makes the decision easier.

If you would like to talk through how waiting periods work or compare different cover options, Cavendish Online can help. 

Speaking with a insurance adviser can make it easier to understand your options and decide what level of cover is right for you.

You can contact Cavendish Online to talk things through, or call

01392 241 850

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

If you’re lucky enough to receive life cover through your employer, it can feel like one less thing to worry about. However, it’s not always as straightforward as it seems. The level of cover is often limited, and in most cases only lasts while you’re in that job. That’s why many people also consider taking out personal life insurance.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between employer life insurance and personal life insurance, how each one works, and which option might be the better fit for you and your family.

What is employer life insurance?

Employer life insurance is a type of life cover provided by your workplace as part of your employee benefits package. It usually pays out a lump sum to your loved ones if you die while employed with that company.

This type of policy is often referred to as relevant life insurance, designed to provide basic financial protection for your loved ones. The level of cover is usually a multiple of your annual salary.

Though it’s a valuable perk, it usually only lasts as long as you remain employed with that company. The payout may also be insufficient to fully replace your income or cover long-term commitments.

How much cover does employer life insurance usually provide?

The amount of cover offered through your employer's plan will vary between companies. Often, it’s typically based on a multiple of your annual salary. For example, if your salary is £30,000 a year with two times your salary covered, your beneficiaries would receive £60,000.

Some employers may also offer fixed lump-sum amounts, particularly in smaller companies or for specific job roles. Make sure to check your policy details, as in many cases the cover is designed to provide basic financial support rather than fully replace your income or cover major expenses.

What happens to employer life insurance if you leave your job?

Your policy is typically tied to your employment. It usually ends as soon as you leave the company, regardless of whether you resign, retire, or are made redundant. Once the policy ends, your loved ones won’t receive a payout if something happens after your employment ends.

Some employers may offer the option to convert your policy to a personal plan, but this isn’t automatic and often comes with higher premiums.

What is personal life insurance?

While employer cover is handy to have, it doesn't always offer the same level of protection as a policy of your own. Personal life insurance is a policy you take out yourself, having full control over all aspects of the policy.

It can come in different forms, such as term life insurance, which covers you for a set number of years, or whole life insurance, which lasts for your entire life.

You can also take out other types of cover, like joint life insurance, which can cover two people under one policy.

Unlike your employer’s cover, personal policies remain in force regardless of where you work, meaning your protection continues even if you change jobs or retire. You can also tailor the policy to suit your family’s needs, whether that’s covering a mortgage, providing for children’s education, or to help your partner maintain their lifestyle.

How much personal life insurance can you take out?

Having your own life insurance means you can choose the amount of cover that suits your individual needs and financial commitments.

Unlike employer life insurance, personal policies can provide significantly higher cover. The exact amount you can take out depends on factors such as your age, health, occupation, and lifestyle. Insurers assess these during the application process to make sure the cover is appropriate and affordable.

Not sure on the amount of cover? See our guide on ‘how much life insurance cover do I need?’.

How long does personal life insurance last?

The length of your policy will depend on the type of cover you choose. Term life insurance covers you for a set number of years, which you select when taking out the policy. It's often chosen to match specific commitments, such as the length of a mortgage or the time until your retirement.

Whole life policies, on the other hand, provide cover for your entire life. As long as premiums are paid, the policy remains in force, and your beneficiaries will receive a payout whenever you pass away.

What are the differences between employer and personal life insurance?

While both employer and personal life insurance can provide protection, there are several key differences between them:

Cover amount

Employer life insurance is usually limited to a multiple of your salary or a fixed lump sum. It is designed to offer basic protection rather than fully replace your income or cover long-term financial commitments.

With personal life insurance, you have full control over the amount of cover, allowing you to tailor it to your specific needs.

Policy ownership

An employer plan is owned and paid for by your employer. You cannot transfer it if you leave the company, and any changes to the policy are generally out of your control.

Personal life insurance, on the other hand, is owned by you. You pay the premiums and are able to make changes such as updating beneficiaries, or increasing cover.

Flexibility

Employer life insurance is usually tied to your job, so cover typically ends when you leave the company. Some employers may allow you to convert the policy to a personal plan, but this option typically comes with higher premiums.

Personal life insurance, however, stays in force regardless of your employment status. You can keep it if you change jobs, or retire.

It also allows you to tailor the policy to your circumstances. This includes aspects such as  the term length, policy type, and additional options such as critical illness cover and income protection.

Is employer life insurance cheaper than personal cover?

The cover offered through your employer is usually free as it's a part of your benefits package.

Personal life insurance typically costs more because it’s tailored to your individual needs. It also takes into account factors like your age, health, and the level of cover you want.

Can you have both employer and personal life insurance?

If you receive cover through your employer it’s a smart idea to have a policy of your own alongside it. That way you're covered no matter what, even if you change jobs or leave your employer altogether.

Having both types may also mean you have sufficient cover to protect your family, or support long-term financial needs. As employee cover can be limited it’s worth having your own policy to top up your cover overall.

Make sure your loved ones are adequately protected

Employer life insurance can be a huge benefit, but it isn’t always enough on its own. Taking a moment to review your cover could make a big difference to the people who rely on you.

Looking to arrange a personal policy from scratch? Cavendish Online can help you find the right level of protection at a price that suits you.

You can get a low-cost online quote in minutes, or speak to one of our friendly advisers for a bit more guidance. We’ll explain your options clearly, answer any questions you have, and help you make an informed decision, with no pressure and no obligation.

Life insurance lingo is often hard to grasp at first, but once you know what you’re dealing with, everything becomes much clearer. Here’s our life insurance glossary with all the key terms you’re likely to come across before and during your journey.

Age limits

The minimum and maximum ages at which you can start or maintain a life insurance policy. These limits vary between insurers and policy types.

Beneficiary

The person or people who receive the payout from your life insurance policy after your death. This often includes family, partners, or a trust.

Claim

The process of requesting the payout from a policy after a triggering event such as death or critical illness.

Cooling-off period

A set period (usually 14 days in the UK) after purchasing a policy during which you can cancel it and receive a full refund of premiums.

Convertible term assurance

A type of term life insurance that allows you to convert your policy into a whole life or permanent policy without undergoing additional medical underwriting.

Contestable period

The initial period of a policy (often two years) during which the insurer can investigate claims and deny payout if false information was given.

Cover amount/sum assured

The amount of money paid out when a claim is made. It can be a lump sum payment or structured as a series of payments, depending on the policy.

Critical illness cover

A policy feature that pays out a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness listed in your plan, like a heart attack, cancer or a stroke.

Learn more about critical illness cover.

Deferred premium

An arrangement where premium payments are postponed to a later date, often used when financial circumstances change.

Death benefit/lump sum

The payment made to your family and/or loved ones on your death. Can be a single lump sum or paid in instalments, depending on the policy.

Death in service benefit

A type of employer-provided cover where your loved ones receive a payout if you die while employed, often a multiple of your salary.

Declined risk

When an insurer refuses to provide cover due to perceived high risk, such as serious health issues, a dangerous hobby or occupation.

This article explains what you can do if you’ve been declined life insurance.

Dependant

A person who relies on your income for financial support, such as a spouse, partner, or child.

Decreasing term life insurance

A type of term life insurance where the sum assured reduces over the life of the policy, typically in line with a repayment mortgage or other decreasing debt.

Learn more about how decreasing term cover works.

Endowment policy

A policy that pays out a lump sum either on death or at the end of a fixed term, often used to save for a specific financial goal.

Exclusion

Situations or causes of death not covered by your policy. For example, suicide within the first year of cover is a common exclusion.

Family income benefit

A type of life cover designed to provide your loved ones with a regular income rather than a single lump sum if you die during the term of the policy. 

Group life insurance

A policy covering multiple employees under one scheme, often provided by an employer as part of employee benefits. 

For more information see our guide: Group Life Insurance: How does it work?

Guaranteed life insurance

Policies that provide a guaranteed payout, typically without medical underwriting. Guaranteed life insurance is often aimed at older applicants or those with pre-existing conditions.

Guaranteed premiums

Premiums that remain fixed throughout the term of the policy, regardless of changes in age, health, or inflation.

Income protection

A policy designed to replace a portion of your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. Payments for income protection usually continue until you can return to work or until the end of the policy term.

Increasing term life insurance

A term policy where the sum assured increases over time, often in line with inflation, so the payout maintains its value.

Learn more about increasing term life insurance.

Index-linked

Also known as ‘indexation’. This is a policy feature where the sum assured or premiums are linked to an inflation index, helping maintain the real value of your cover.

Insurance risk

The risk an insurer takes on by providing cover, based on your health, age, occupation, and lifestyle factors.

Intermediary

A financial adviser or broker who helps you find, compare, and apply for life insurance policies.

Insurer

The life insurance company providing cover, responsible for paying out claims under the terms of the policy.

Lapse

When a policy ends because premiums haven’t been paid, causing potential loss of cover.

Length of cover/term

The amount of time for which the policy provides protection.

Life expectancy

The predicted number of years a person is expected to live, based on statistical averages and personal health.

Lifetime cover/whole of life insurance

A policy that provides cover for the insured’s entire life, paying out a lump sum when the insured dies, provided premiums are maintained. It’s also known by insurers as ‘life assurance’.

Learn more about whole life insurance.

Medical exam

A health assessment required by some insurers to evaluate risk, often including blood pressure, weight, and blood tests.

This article explains what you can do if you fail a life insurance medical.

Mortgage life insurance

A form of life insurance designed specifically to pay off all or part of your mortgage in the event of your death. The sum assured often mirrors the outstanding mortgage balance.

Learn more about mortgage life insurance.

Over 50 life insurance

Cover designed for people over 50, often without medical underwriting. Typically provides a guaranteed payout.

Learn more about how life insurance for over 50s works.

Overinsured

When the sum assured on a policy is higher than necessary, possibly leading to unnecessarily high premiums.

Permanent Life Insurance

Another term for whole-of-life insurance, providing lifelong cover with fixed premiums.

Policy

The legal contract between the insured and the insurer, outlining cover, premiums, term, and conditions.

Policy holder

The person who owns the policy and is responsible for paying premiums. They can also make changes to cover or beneficiaries.

Power of attorney

A legal arrangement allowing someone to act on your behalf for financial or legal matters, including managing life insurance.

Pre-existing medical condition

Health issues present before applying for cover which may affect premiums or ability  to receive cover.

Examples can include:

• Heart attack

• Cancer

• Stroke

• Mental health conditions

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

Probate

The legal process of validating a will. Policies written in trust bypasses probate, typically allowing beneficiaries to receive funds faster.

Quote

An estimate of the premium you would pay for a life insurance policy based on your age, medical history, lifestyle, and cover amount.

Term life insurance

A policy that provides cover for a set time period, often between 5-50 years. If the policyholder dies during the term, a lump sum payout is issued. If the term expires and the holder is still alive, no payout is made.

Renewable term life Insurance

A term policy that can be renewed at the end of the term without a medical exam, though premiums often rise with age.

Tax-free lump sum

Most life insurance payouts in the UK are free from income tax.

Terminal illness

A condition where the insured is expected to live for a limited time. Many life insurance policies pay out early if a terminal diagnosis is confirmed.

Underinsurance

When the sum assured is too low to cover financial commitments, leaving dependants at risk.

Underwriter

The person who on behalf of the insurer, assesses your application, health, lifestyle, and risk to decide eligibility and premium rates.

Void

A policy that is treated as invalid, usually if the applicant provided false information when applying.

For more information, please see: What happens if you lie on your life insurance application​?

Waiver of premium

A policy feature where the insurer pays premiums if you cannot work due to illness or disability, keeping your cover active.

With-profits policy

A life insurance policy that participates in the insurer’s profits, potentially increasing the payout through bonuses or dividends over time.

When people ask how much life insurance costs, what they’re usually asking is something slightly different: what’s a reasonable amount to pay for peace of mind?

Life insurance isn’t a one-price-fits-all product. The monthly cost can vary widely depending on age, health, lifestyle, and what you want the policy to do. Understanding how those factors fit together makes it much easier to judge whether a quote feels fair, or whether you’re paying for cover you don’t actually need.

How Does Life Insurance Work?

A life insurance policy pays out a cash sum if you die during the policy term. That payout is known as the sum assured, and it’s usually paid as a lump sum to your chosen beneficiaries.

Many policies also include a terminal illness provision, meaning the payout can be made early if you're diagnosed with a terminal illness (less than 12 months months to live) during the term.

You pay an insurance premium, typically monthly, for the length of the policy. If you outlive the term, the policy simply ends with no payout. That’s not a failure of the policy. It means the cover did its job while it was needed.

Some policies also include options like critical illness cover, which pays out if you’re diagnosed with a serious condition such as cancer, a heart attack, a stroke or another qualifying illness.

How Much Is Reasonable to Pay for Life Insurance?

For many people in the UK, life insurance costs less than they expect. Looking at the average cost of life insurance can help put quotes into perspective before deciding what feels reasonable.

As a rough guide:

• Younger applicants in good health may pay only a few pounds per month

• Costs rise with age, longer policy lengths, and higher cover amounts

• Adding critical illness cover increases the monthly premiums, sometimes significantly

What matters most is not the headline price, but whether the cover matches your situation. A lower monthly cost is only good value if the policy would actually support the people you care about.

Average Cost of Life Insurance in the UK

There’s no single “average” price, but insurers price policies based on risk. Factors that influence life insurance rates by age include:

• Age at application

• Length of the policy

• Health and lifestyle, including smoking status

• Medical history, including any pre-existing medical condition

• Occupation and hobbies

• Body mass index (BMI)

A healthy person in their 30s taking out a level term life insurance policy may pay far less than someone in their 50s applying for the same cover.

How Much Cover Do You Need?

The right cover amount depends on what the policy is meant to do.

Common reasons people take out life insurance include:

• Paying off a mortgage

• Replacing lost income

• Covering funeral costs

• Supporting children or dependants

• Planning for inheritance tax

If the policy is linked to a mortgage, mortgage life insurance is often arranged as decreasing term cover, where the payout reduces over time in line with the loan. If the aim is broader family support, level term cover or a family income benefit may be more appropriate.

Single vs Joint Life Insurance: Does the Cost Differ?

A single life policy is taken out in one person’s name and pays out if that individual dies during the term. A joint life policy, by contrast, is shared between two people and most commonly pays out when the first person dies.

Because there’s only one policy and one payout, joint cover often works out cheaper than taking out two separate plans. That’s why many couples choose it, particularly when the main aim is to protect a mortgage. The trade-off is that once a claim is paid, the policy stops. If the surviving partner still needs cover after that point, they’ll need to arrange something new.

Typical Life Insurance Payouts in the UK

There’s no “typical” payout, as the average payout reflects the cover chosen. 

Some policies are taken out with a very specific goal in mind, such as clearing a mortgage, so the family home isn't put at risk. Others are there to soften the financial impact over time, whether that’s covering day-to-day costs for a while or giving a family room to adjust.

In most cases, life insurance pays out as a lump sum. That flexibility matters. It allows the person receiving the money to deal with whatever feels most urgent at the time, rather than being locked into a single use.

Does Life Insurance Cover Suicide?

Most UK life insurance plans include a suicide clause. If death occurs within the first 12 months of the life insurance plan as a result of suicide, the insurance company usually refunds premiums rather than paying the full sum assured. After that period, the policy generally pays out as normal.

How Much Does a Funeral Cost?

Funeral costs in the UK often run into several thousand pounds. Many people take out over 50s life insurance specifically to cover these expenses, so loved ones aren’t left dealing with immediate bills at a difficult time.

An over 50s plan usually comes with guaranteed acceptance but may include a waiting period before the full payout applies.

Decreasing Term vs Whole of Life Insurance

• Decreasing life insurance is usually cheaper and commonly used for mortgages
   

• Whole of life insurance lasts for life and guarantees a payout, provided premiums are maintained

Whole of life policies cost more, but they’re sometimes used for funeral planning or inheritance tax mitigation rather than income replacement.

What Affects the Price the Most?

The biggest influences on cost tend to be:

• Age at application

• Policy length

• Cover amount

• Medical conditions, including any heart condition, chronic illness, or previous acute condition that may affect risk

• Lifestyle factors such as smoking

• Whether critical illness cover is included

A policy taken out earlier in life is almost always cheaper than waiting until cover feels urgent.

Is Life Insurance Worth It in the UK?

For many people, yes. Life insurance is about reducing financial pressure at the worst possible time. Whether it’s clearing a mortgage, replacing income, or simply covering final expenses, the value lies in what it prevents, not just what it pays.

A More Realistic Way to Think About Cost

For many people, the first step is simply getting a rough sense of the numbers, and that's where a life insurance calculator can help.  It gives you a sense of the ballpark figures and shows how things like your age, the amount of cover, or the length of the policy can change the price.

It’s not a decision-maker on its own, but it can be a useful way to understand what’s driving the cost before you look any deeper.

But figures on a screen only go so far. Two policies that cost the same each month can work very differently once you look beyond the headline number. Details like exclusions, how flexible the cover is, and what actually happens at claim stage all make a difference.

The aim usually isn’t just affordability, but confidence that the cover would still make sense if it ever had to be used.

This is where speaking to insurance experts can help.

At Cavendish Online, life insurance options are discussed in context, looking at what the policy is meant to achieve rather than just how much it costs.

Income protection is designed to support you financially if illness or injury stops you from working. But one part of the policy that often causes confusion is the deferred period. It can make a big difference to how well your policy actually works for you.

So, if you’ve come across this term and don’t know what it means, we’ll explain it in more detail.

What is a deferred period for income protection?

The deferred period is the amount of time you need to be off work due to illness or injury before your payments begin. It begins from the first day you’re signed off and continues until the end of the period you’ve chosen.

It’s in place to make sure the cover only kicks in when you genuinely need long-term support. In many cases, people choose a deferred period that lines up with their employer’s sick pay or the savings they have available.

How does income protection work?

Income protection insurance provides a regular monthly payment if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury. The payments are designed to replace a portion of your income, typically a percentage of your gross salary, helping you cover essential living costs such as rent, bills, and everyday expenses.

When you make a claim, the insurer will first check that your deferred period (the agreed waiting time before payments start) has passed. Once this period ends, your monthly benefit begins and continues until you return to work, reach the end of your policy term, or in some cases, until retirement — whichever comes first.

Policies can differ in how they define incapacity. Some cover only your own occupation, meaning you’ll be protected if you can’t do your specific job, while others cover any occupation, which is more restrictive and pays out only if you can’t work in any role.

It’s not the same as critical illness cover, which pays a lump sum for a specific diagnosis. Instead, it’s intended to provide ongoing financial support while you’re unable to earn your normal income.

How does a deferred period work?

The deferred period immediately begins once you’ve been signed off from work. During this time, you won’t receive payments from your policy until the period ends. This could mean relying on sick pay, savings, or other income instead.

The length you choose has a big impact on how your policy works:

• Shorter deferred periods mean you’ll start receiving payments sooner, but premiums are typically higher.
   

• Longer deferred periods reduce your premiums because the insurer is less likely to make a payout, but you’ll need financial support to cover the waiting time.

What’s the difference between deferred periods & waiting periods?

These terms are often used interchangeably by insurers, but there can be a subtle difference depending on the provider.

As mentioned, the deferred period is the time you must be off work before your income protection payments start. 

A waiting period can sometimes refer to the same thing, but in some policies, it may also cover other types of delays, such as the time before you can make a claim after taking out the policy. It’s common with other types of protection products such as Over 50s life insurance.

The key takeaway is that both relate to how long you must wait before receiving payments.

What is a common length for income protection deferred periods?

Income protection policies offer a range of deferred periods, depending on your needs and financial situation.

Common deferred periods fall between 1-52 weeks, although some insurers may offer other lengths as well.

Shorter deferred periods, such as 4 or 8 weeks, mean your payments start sooner if you’re off work, which can be useful if you don’t have much sick pay or savings. However, shorter periods usually come with higher premiums.

Longer deferred periods, such as 26 or 52 weeks, are generally cheaper because the insurer is less likely to pay out. These longer periods work well if you have generous employer sick pay or a financial buffer to cover the first few months of absence.

Will the deferred period impact my policy?

The deferred period you choose can affect your policy in two main ways.

First, it determines how long you must wait before your payments start. You’ll need to rely on other sources of income before your policy begins to pay out.

Second, it impacts the cost of your premiums. Shorter deferred periods usually mean higher premiums because the insurer is more likely to start paying out sooner, while longer periods typically reduce your monthly or annual payments.

This is all the more reason to make sure your policy can provide cover where needed. If you don’t have support in place, setting a long deferred period could pose a risk to your finances.

Get expert advice on income protection

Income protection can be complex, but it’s designed to give you peace of mind if illness or injury stops you from working. Whether you’re self-employed or rely on your salary, our expert advisers can help you understand the right cover, deferred periods, and monthly benefit options for your needs.

There are no upfront fees to speak with our team, you can call us on

01392 436 193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm) 

We’ll help you find a policy that protects your income and fits your lifestyle. Speak to an expert and secure your financial protection today.

Some couples choose to build a life together without getting married—and that’s becoming more common. They might buy a home, raise kids, share finances, and make big plans for the future. But when it comes to life insurance, things can sometimes feel a little less clear if you’re not legally married.

A joint life insurance policy can offer, and how you and your partner want things handled if one of you dies unexpectedly. If you want to understand how this type of cover works in more detail, you can visit our dedicated joint life insurance page for a clearer overview. 

This guide walks through the practical points, the emotional considerations and the small details that often matter more than people expect.

What Is Joint Life Insurance and How Does It Work for Unmarried Couples?

A joint policy is really just one life insurance policy that two people share. Rather than each partner arranging their own separate plan, the cover sits in one place and applies to both of you.

There are two common versions:

• First-to-die: the policy pays out a cash sum when the first partner dies, and then the policy ends.

• Second-to-die (less common): the payout comes only after both partners have died.

For co-habiting couples, friends who share a mortgage, or two people with joint debt, the first option is usually more relevant because it helps the surviving partner cope with mortgage payments, bills or other financial obligations.

It works the same way for unmarried couples as it does for married ones, but without the legal “default settings” that automatically apply to spouses. That’s where careful planning comes in.

Joint Life Insurance for Unmarried Couples or Friends

A joint life insurance policy doesn’t require a romantic relationship. Two people with shared future costs, such as a mortgage or business loan, can take out cover together. Friends who invest in a property, siblings living together, or co-parents who are not in a romantic partnership sometimes choose a joint policy because it ties financial responsibilities to a specific arrangement.

It simply comes down to whether both people want financial stability for the other if something happens.

One thing to keep in mind is what happens to the payout. Unlike married couples, unmarried partners do not automatically become the other’s personal representative, so you will want to be clear about who receives the payout and how it should be handled.

Which Life Insurance Option Suits Couples Best?

There is no single “best” option because every couple has different priorities. A joint life insurance policy works well for people who want simplicity: one plan, one premium, one payout. It is often cheaper than two single policies, although that isn’t guaranteed.

However, a single life insurance plan for each partner gives greater flexibility.

If you separate, change circumstances, or each have very different medical conditions, two individual policies can sometimes give you more control over how your potential payouts are structured. A single plan can also make sense when one partner needs stronger protection or expects to rely on lifetime cover, such as whole of life insurance.

Some couples blend both methods: using a joint policy for shared commitments like a mortgage, and individual plans for more personal responsibilities such as family life insurance or cover linked to dependents.

For a helpful overview on comparing policy types, you can read our guide on life assurance vs life insurance.

The Benefits of Joint Life Insurance for Unmarried Couples

A joint policy tends to appeal to couples because it is straightforward to arrange and can sometimes work out cheaper than running two plans side by side. For those thinking carefully about couples financial planning, it also offers reassurance that the surviving partner has funds available soon after an unexpected loss.

It can also reduce emotional stress during a difficult time, because the insurance provider releases a clear, predetermined payout rather than leaving a partner without cover or facing complications from a partner without cover.

Joint cover can also keep things simpler if you prefer a shared approach to money. You both apply together, you choose one policy term, and you keep track of one premium.

How Do Premiums and Coverage Differ for Unmarried Couples?

With joint cover, insurers look at the overall level of risk between both partners. If one person has notable medical conditions, works in a high-risk role or has lifestyle habits that insurers see as unusual, the cost of the joint premium can shift to reflect that.

When insurers work out the cost of a joint policy, they tend to look at the whole picture. Your medical conditions, both individually and together, usually carry some weight, and your past health history can affect the types of insurance they think are appropriate. Things like an age gap, old claims, or the sort of work or hobbies you do can nudge the price up or down as well. And if you have asked for any extra cover, such as critical illness, that gets added into the mix too.  You can learn more in our article on critical illness insurance.

There are times when an insurer may ask for a short medical exam, especially if one partner has health concerns they want a clearer understanding of before confirming the cover.

If you want help comparing these differences, using a life insurance calculator can offer a rough estimate before you request tailored quotes.. You may also find it useful to read How much life cover do I need?.

Are There Legal Considerations for Unmarried Couples?

Yes, and this is where unmarried couples must pay closer attention than married ones.

Because unmarried partners do not automatically inherit each other’s estate, it is worth thinking about who would actually receive the payout and whether it might end up tied into the estate for a period. It also helps if each of you has a will that matches the intentions of your insurance policy, particularly where large sums or shared future costs like property are involved. 

Some couples prefer to make formal nominations or speak with a solicitor so there is no confusion later, especially when dependents or business interests come into play.

For anyone still weighing up the pros and cons of life cover in general, our guide on the pros & cons of life insurance may provide some reassurance.

What Determines Whether an Unmarried Couple can Get Joint Life Insurance?

For unmarried couples, insurers usually assess much the same things they would for anyone else. They consider how you are both connected to the financial risk, the state of your health, the roles you each play in your finances, and how your shared responsibilities fit together.

Eligibility is mostly influenced by:

• The level of financial ties between you

• Your individual and joint health background

• Any unusual income patterns or unusual requests

• The type of cover you’re seeking, whether it's term cover or whole of life cover

Unmarried couples are usually eligible as long as they share financial responsibilities or can show the consideration for couples that insurers expect when assessing a joint policy.

Choosing Between Joint and Separate Policies

Deciding between a joint policy and single life insurance often comes down to how much independence you want in your cover. Two single policies may cost more, but they offer more freedom over changes later, particularly if one partner develops health issues or experiences a premium increase.

A joint plan is often a simple option and can sometimes work out cheaper as well. It usually fits couples who manage their responsibilities side by side and want some confidence that the financial commitments they share are looked after.

For practical help with the application process itself, you can read our guide on how to get life insurance online.

Choosing Life Insurance for Unmarried Couples

A joint life insurance policy can work well for unmarried couples who share their finances and responsibilities, but it is not the only path. Taking a little time to understand the different types of life insurance available can help you decide which approach suits your long-term plans best.

Get Help Choosing the Right Life Insurance

If you're thinking about taking out life insurance and want support as you compare options, we are here to help. Our team can guide you through the process, explain the different types of cover available and help you find a policy that suits your circumstances.

You can apply for a quote using our simple online form, which lets you compare prices from leading insurers in one place.

If you prefer to talk things through, you can speak directly with one of our expert life insurance advisers. We are always happy to answer questions or help you understand how the cover works.

You can call our team on 

01392 241850 

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

Lots of people use life insurance as a way to protect their mortgage, but what happens when it's paid off? Does your policy simply end, or does it continue?

In this article, we'll explain what happens to your policy and the options you have once your mortgage is fully paid off.

What is mortgage life insurance?

Mortgage life insurance is usually taken out to protect your partner or other loved ones from taking on that financial burden if you pass away before the mortgage has been paid off. It could be the difference between your loved ones keeping their home or being forced to sell it to settle debts.

Three main types of life insurance are often used to cover a mortgage:

• Decreasing term life insurance has a payout value that reduces over time in line with your mortgage balance. As it's a term policy, your insurer will only issue a payout if you die within the agreed term. It's also known as mortgage protection insurance.
   

• Level term insurance is another form of term cover where the payout stays the same throughout the policy. It's not tied to your mortgage, so it can be used to cover other costs where needed.
   

• Whole life insurance is a type of permanent cover, meaning the policy will not expire and will payout regardless of when you die. Like level term cover, the payout is fixed and is not directly tied to your mortgage, so it could also cover additional expenses. It's also known by insurers as life assurance.

Does your life insurance end once the mortgage is paid?

Your cover doesn't automatically end as soon as your mortgage is repaid, as they are separate products. As long as you keep paying your premiums, your cover will continue until the end of the term. The amount you receive will depend on the type of policy you own.

With decreasing term life insurance, the sum assured will keep decreasing over time, even if you have cleared your mortgage. This means that if you were to pass away, your loved ones would likely receive some kind of payout if it’s still within the original term. 

With a level term or whole of life policy, the cover remains in place even after the mortgage is paid off. Because the policy pays out a fixed amount, your loved ones could still receive a significant lump sum that can be used for:

• Everyday living costs

• Funeral expenses

• Future financial support for dependants

• Leaving a cash gift or inheritance

Should I keep my life insurance after my mortgage is paid?

Your home is not the only thing that needs protecting. Although your main reason for purchasing life insurance could be to cover mortgage payments, there are other costs your family may need support with in your absence

You could still need protection if:

• You have children or other dependants

• Your partner relies on your income

• You have other loans or debts to repay

• You want to help with funeral costs

• You’d like to leave money behind as a gift

If none of these apply and you feel your financial responsibilities have reduced, you may decide the policy isn’t necessary any more. Whilst it's still worth having cover for any other expenses or unforeseen circumstances that may arise, you are also free to cancel the plan at any time for no additional cost.

Reviewing your policy

It's something people tend to put off, but you should review your life insurance regularly, especially after a big life event. Paying off your mortgage is no exception to this, as it will likely affect how much cover you currently need.

You may decide that your cover is too high, in which case you could opt to reduce the amount. Or if you have dependants who still rely on you financially, you may want to keep the same level of protection so they’re supported if the worst happens.

When reviewing your policy, it can help to think about:

• Who currently depends on your income?

• Do you have any other loans or financial commitments?

• How much would your loved ones and/or dependents need to maintain their lifestyle?

• Are you planning for future needs such as retirement?

It’s also worth checking how long is left on your policy. If you only have a few years remaining, you might choose to keep it running until the end rather than starting a brand-new policy, which could cost more due to age or health changes.

Changing or cancelling your life insurance

Even if your mortgage has been paid off, it’s still worth considering some form of life insurance to keep your loved ones financially protected.

Once your mortgage is cleared, you have several options.

You could cancel your life insurance policy completely, which stops premium payments but also means the cover ends, and no payout will be made.

Alternatively, you might switch to a different type of cover, such as moving from decreasing term to level term, whole of life, or a joint policy.

Another option is to adjust your cover amount, reducing the payout to reflect your current needs and avoid overpaying.

Before you make a decision...

There are a lot of reasons why we have life insurance, none more important than protecting the people we love. Though your circumstances change, there's still a need to keep your loved ones protected financially.

Our advisers can provide expert information to help you make an informed decision. It may be the case of switching policies or reducing the amount of cover.

They can also talk you through additional protection products that may suit your situation, such as income protection and critical illness cover.

Call our team on

01392 436193 (Monday - Friday 9am - 5.30pm)

for dedicated support.

If you share financial responsibilities with a partner, joint life insurance can be simple and cost-effective. This includes sharing a mortgage, rent, or family expenses. Rather than paying for two separate policies, a joint policy can protect both of you under one plan.

Though it’s often the cheaper and more convenient option, it’s not always the best fit for every couple. So before you decide if joint cover is right for you, there are some key factors to weigh up first. We’ll break down the main pros and cons of joint life insurance to help you make an informed choice.

What is joint life insurance?

Whereas a standard life insurance policy covers one person only, joint policies cover two people instead. That means you only pay one set of premiums, which can often make it a more affordable option for couples or partners.

Joint policies work in two ways: either as a first death policy, which pays out on the first death, or as a second death policy, which pays out once both policyholders have passed away.

First death policies tend to be more common, as they help ensure the surviving partner or spouse has financial support to maintain their lifestyle, keep up with mortgage payments, or cover other ongoing costs.

Pros of joint life insurance cover

More affordable

One of the main advantages of joint life insurance is cost. As it only pays out once, it’s usually cheaper than buying two single policies. For many couples, this can be an appealing way to get cover without stretching the monthly budget.

Simple and convenient

With just one premium and policy to manage, a joint policy can be easier to keep track of than two separate policies. This can be especially helpful for busy households that prefer less admin.

Suitable for shared costs

Joint policies are primarily designed for couples, especially those who share expenses like a mortgage, rent, or living costs. If either one of you passes away, the payout can help the other fund those key commitments.

Quick payout on first death

Most joint life insurance policies are first death, so the payout is made as soon as one partner dies. In doing so, it can provide the surviving partner with immediate support to manage costs such as mortgage repayments or household bills.

Peace of mind

Above all, it offers reassurance that your loved one won’t be left struggling financially if the worst happens. Knowing you have a plan in place can help to bring comfort to both of you.

The cons of joint life insurance cover

Only one payout

A joint policy typically ends after the first death and only pays out once. That means the surviving partner would need to arrange new cover if they still want their own life insurance policy.

Limited flexibility

If your circumstances change, say for example, your income increases, or your family grows, adjusting the cover can be tricky. Joint policies don’t offer much room to tailor your cover to changing needs.

Can't be tailored to cover individuals

Under a joint policy, both partners are covered for the same amount, even if one earns more or has greater financial responsibilities. This can make it less suitable if one partner needs a higher amount of cover. In this case, they benefit from having a policy of their own, like term life insurance or whole of life cover.

Potential issues after separation

If your relationship ends, may not be possible to split a joint policy. Some couples may need to cancel and take out new individual cover, which can be inconvenient and sometimes more expensive. For more information, please see: What happens to joint life insurance after divorce?

Replacement cover could be more expensive

Following a successful claim, the surviving partner may find that premiums may be higher due to age or health changes. For example, if you've developed a medical condition between policies, you're likely to pay more for a new policy.

When joint life insurance might be a good fit

The type of life insurance you decide on ideally should match your goals and financial circumstances. Joint cover, in particular, can be ideal for you and your partner if:

• You share financial commitments such as a mortgage or rent.

• You’re both of similar age and health.

• You want affordable, straightforward protection.

• You prefer managing one single policy together.

If you're not sure what type of cover is right for you, browse our guide on: What type of life insurance do I need?

Can you add critical illness cover to a joint policy?

Critical illness cover can protect you and your family financially in the event you are diagnosed with a serious medical condition. Many insurers allow you to add to a life insurance policy, though doing so will increase your monthly premiums. The payout would also usually be made only once, similar to the main life cover.

Life insurance advice is just a call away

For personalised guidance, you can speak with one of our advisers today. can review your financial circumstances, dependents, and long-term goals to recommend the most suitable type of cover. They can also help you compare and understand policies so you have the right level of protection in place.

Having life insurance in place is a solid start when it comes to protecting your loved ones, but as everyone knows, life doesn’t always go as planned. Illness, injury, or a sudden loss of income can put real pressure on your finances, even if you already have life cover. 

In this guide, we’ll look at why having extra protection can make all the difference and how to check if your current life insurance cover is enough.

Is your current life insurance enough?

A lot might have changed in your life since you first took out your policy. For example, you may have bought a house, had kids or changed jobs. Each of these can have an impact on how much cover you need, which is all the more reason to review your cover.

You may find that your cover might not stretch as far as it once did, in which case you can increase the amount of cover. It may also involve switching policies, such as from a term cover to a whole-of-life cover.

If you're unsure if your cover is still adequate, it's worth considering whether the payout would be enough to clear any debts or obligations you have. You should also ask yourself if it would be enough for your family to be able to maintain their lifestyle in the long term.

Why it's worth having extra protection alongside life insurance

Even a small amount of extra cover can make a big difference, giving you peace of mind that you and your loved ones are protected no matter what life throws at you. Some of the main reasons it’s worth having extra protection include:

• Life insurance only covers death — it won’t help if you are unable to work due to illness or injury.
   

• Employer benefits like death in service or sick pay may not be enough, and usually stop if you leave your job.
   

• Extra protection can help cover household bills, mortgage payments, and other living costs.
   

• You can tailor the level of cover changes to your personal circumstances, commitments or income.

Additional types of protection to consider

Even if you already have life insurance, other types of cover that can help make sure you and your family are fully covered.

Critical illness insurance

Critical illness cover pays a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness, such as cancer, a heart attack, or a stroke.

The money can be used where needed, such as to cover household bills, replace lost income, pay for private treatment, or even adapt your home if necessary. You can usually add it to an existing life insurance policy, which makes it easier to manage alongside your other cover.

Most policies will only pay out once, so it's essential to check what conditions are included.

Income protection insurance

Rather than paying out a fixed lump sum if you can’t work due to illness or injury, income protection replaces part of your salary. It usually pays a percentage of your earnings each month, up to a set limit, and continues until you return to work or until the policy term ends.

Some policies also include a waiting period before payments start, which can affect the monthly premium. This type of cover can be ideal if your employer doesn’t provide long-term sick pay or if your household relies heavily on your income for everyday expenses.

Family income benefit

Family income benefit is slightly different from a standard life insurance policy. Instead of a lump sum, it pays a monthly income to your family if you die during the policy term.

Payments usually continue until the end of the term, which could be timed to match a mortgage or until your children are financially independent. It can provide ongoing support to your family, rather than a one-off payment.

What about your work cover?

You also need to take into account any policies offered by your employer such as key person insurance. These policies can complement your personal insurance needs and sometimes provide financial protection at no additional cost to you.

Death in service benefit

Many employers offer this as part of their benefits package, usually paying 2–4 times your salary if you die while employed. It’s a great perk to have, but it shouldn’t replace personal life insurance, as you usually lose it if you change jobs.

Employer sick pay

If you’re only entitled to Statutory Sick Pay, income protection can help bridge the gap. Relying on workplace benefits alone can leave you exposed if your circumstances change or if your employer reduces or stops those benefits.

Not every employer will offer the same benefits. For example, if you're self-employed, managing your financial safety net is your responsibility. Because of this, you will need to have your own cover.

When extra protection might make sense

Not everyone needs extra cover, but it can be a real lifesaver in certain situations. It’s worth considering additional protection if:

• You’ve recently taken on a mortgage or other financial commitments.
   

• You have children or dependants who rely on your income.
   

• Your employer benefits are limited or could change.
   

• Your savings wouldn’t cover several months of bills if you couldn’t work.
   

• You want to make sure illness, injury, or loss of income wouldn’t put your family under financial strain.

If your life insurance is up to date, adding other types of protection can give you more complete security and peace of mind.

How to decide what’s right for you

The best way to work out what cover you need is to look at your protection as a whole.

Start by looking closely at your financial commitments, income, and savings.  and think about how your family would manage if something unexpected happened. Doing so could help you decide whether extra protection is worth it and which type of cover would be most useful.

It’s also a good idea to review your life insurance regularly, especially after any major life changes like buying a home, having children, or changing jobs. Even if you have a policy in place, your needs may have shifted over time, and a quick check can help you make sure you’re suitably covered.

Where to get advice

Choosing the right level and type of cover can feel complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our friendly team of advisers can help you review your existing life insurance and recommend the right combination of policies for your circumstances.

If you’re unsure about whether you need extra protection or what type is best, speaking with Cavendish Online is a simple way to get clarity and peace of mind. Call us today on 01392 43 94 37 for guidance.

Where to get advice

Choosing the right level and type of cover can feel complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our friendly team of advisers can help you review your existing life insurance and recommend the right combination of policies for your circumstances.

If you’re unsure about whether you need extra protection or what type is best, speaking with Cavendish Online is a simple way to get clarity and peace of mind. Call us today on 01392 43 94 37 for guidance.

If you're thinking of buying life insurance but are put off by the idea of adding another monthly bill, a joint policy could be a more affordable option. Designed for couples or partners, it’s a single policy that covers two people, often costing less than taking out two separate plans.

While saving money is appealing, you still need to make sure the policy suits both of your needs. In this guide, we’ll explain how joint life insurance works, whether it’s actually cheaper than two single policies, and the simple ways you can keep your premiums as low as possible without compromising on the protection you need.

What is joint life insurance?

Joint life insurance is essentially a single policy that covers two people, usually partners, spouses, or anyone who shares financial responsibilities. Instead of each person having their own policy, you’re both protected under one plan.

Most joint policies are set up on a first death basis, meaning the policy pays out when the first person passes away. After that, the policy ends, leaving the surviving partner free to arrange new cover if needed.

There are also second death policies, which only pay out after both people have passed, though these are typically used for inheritance planning rather than everyday protection.

A joint policy can be useful if you share mortgage payments or want to make sure your partner is financially supported if something happens to you.

Is joint life insurance cheaper than two single policies?

In most cases, a joint policy can be cheaper than taking out separate policies. That’s because it usually only pays out once, so the insurer’s risk (and therefore your monthly premium) is lower.

However, cheaper doesn’t always mean better value. If one of you has different needs, for example, a higher income, it may be more cost-effective to take out two single policies instead.

Ways to lower the cost of joint life insurance

There are a few simple steps you can take to help reduce the cost of your joint policy without cutting corners on cover:

1. Shop around and compare providers

Life insurance prices vary from one provider to another, so it’s worth comparing a few quotes before you commit. Even small differences in monthly premiums can add up over the years.

For a free, no-obligation quote, simply enter our quick and easy form to compare life insurance quotes online.

2. Avoid over-insuring

It’s understandable to want as much cover as possible, but it’s important to make sure it realistically reflects your needs. In most cases, covering essentials like your mortgage, outstanding debts, living expenses, and funeral costs may be enough. Anything beyond that could simply increase your premiums without adding meaningful value.

For more information, see our guide on 'How much life insurance cover do I need?'

3. Consider the right policy type

Term life insurance is usually cheaper than whole-of-life cover, as it only protects you for a set number of years. So if your main goal is to cover your mortgage or provide short-term support, a term policy may be more cost-effective.

However, if you want guaranteed protection, whole life insurance is a great way to provide peace of mind. Unlike term cover, the policy doesn't expire, so all you need to do is continue paying your premiums.

4. Choose the right term length

Ideally, you want to pick a policy term that adequately matches your financial commitments. For example, if you have 20 years left on your mortgage, then a 20-year term is likely to be sufficient. It's important to remember, though, that longer terms mean higher costs, so only pay for what you need.

5. Look at your health and lifestyle

Insurers base premiums on risk, so generally, healthier lifestyles can lead to lower costs. Quitting smoking, for example, can be a big help when it comes to reducing your premiums.

You may also be charged more if you have a pre-existing medical condition. While it’s tempting to withhold such information it could cause issues later on like a payout being denied to your loved ones.

Common questions about joint life insurance

What happens if we separate?

If you and your partner separate or divorce, some joint life insurance policies can simply be converted to single policies, but this will be up to your provider. 

Other options include cancelling the plan and taking out new cover, or keeping the insurance.

For more information, please see: What happens to joint life insurance after divorce?

Does joint life insurance cover both of us equally?

Yes, joint life insurance covers both policyholders for the same amount, it doesn’t matter who passes away first. The payout amount is agreed at the start of the policy and is the same regardless of who makes the claim.

Keep in mind that once the benefit has been paid, the policy usually ends, so the surviving partner will no longer be covered and may need to take out a new policy to remain protected.

Can joint life insurance include critical illness cover?

Many insurers allow you to add critical illness cover to a joint policy. This means the policy could pay out if either of you is diagnosed with a serious medical condition listed in the policy, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Adding this type of protection will likely increase your premium, so it’s important to weigh up whether it fits within your budget and needs.

Can we choose how much cover we each get?

Not usually. A joint policy provides a shared level of cover that applies to both partners equally. The amount you agree on will be the total amount paid out on the first claim.

If you each want different levels of protection based on your income, debts, or personal responsibilities, it might make more sense to take out two single policies instead.

If you would like more information on which type of life insurance may be right for you, our advisers are here to help. Call us today for expert guidance and a no-obligation discussion about your options.

As we approach the end of 2025, there are plenty of ducks to get in a row, especially when it comes to your insurance policies. Life insurance, for example, is a key part of protecting the people who matter most to you.

If you already have a policy, now is a great time to take a step back and make sure your cover still matches your loved one’s needs.

In this guide, we’ll explore why your cover requirements may have shifted and how to determine if your current policy is still the best fit.

Why should you review your life insurance policy?

In many ways, life can change with a flick of a switch. With this in mind, it's important to make sure your life insurance policy still meets your goals and needs before it's too late. If you don't, it could mean your loved ones are left with less financial support than needed should the worst happen.

Though having adequate protection is essential, you may also find that you need less cover than initially thought. In this case, you could reduce your cover to save money on premiums. It also gives you an opportunity to look for better deals elsewhere.

Reasons you may need to adjust your cover for 2026

Even the slightest change to your circumstances could warrant a change to your life insurance policy. Some of the main reasons people need to adjust their cover often include:

• Life changes like marriage, divorce, new children, or changing jobs.
   

• Financial changes such as paying off a mortgage, taking on debts, or changes in income.
   

• Health changes, such as cases where a new medical condition may affect cover or premiums.
   

• Policy changes where there may be outdated terms or an insufficient limit to cover.
   

• Employer policies where you need to reassess if your workplace cover is enough.

These changes could also affect the type of policy you need. For example, if you have decreasing term life insurance and have paid off your mortgage, you might consider switching to a different type of cover, such as whole life insurance.

Alternatively, if your loved one’s circumstances have evolved, you may find joint life insurance more suitable if you now have a partner who depends on your income.

How often should I review my life insurance policy​

Ideally, you should review your life cover when you go through a significant change that could impact how much cover you need. It's a good notion to review your life insurance at least once a year so that your cover accounts for any changes in your life, finances, or health.

For many people, reviewing at the same time each year is a simple way to make sure nothing slips through the cracks. During this review, you can also check your critical illness cover and income protection policies (if you have them) to ensure all aspects of your financial protection are still right for your needs.

What to do when reviewing your life insurance

When it comes to reviewing your life insurance cover, it always helps to have a clear plan of what you want to cover. A good place to start is by asking yourself a few questions, such as:

• Has anything significant changed in my life over the past year, such as marriage, children, or moving house?
   

• Is my current cover enough to protect my mortgage, loved ones, and lifestyle?
   

• Do I have employer-provided cover (such as death in service benefit), and is it sufficient?
   

• Do I need additional protection, such as critical illness or income protection?
   

• Am I paying more than necessary for my current policy, or could I find a better deal elsewhere?
   

Once you’ve answered these questions, you can book a review with your insurance provider to discuss your options. You may decide on other options such as upgrading your policy, switching providers, or adding additional cover to better match your needs.

If you're looking to take out a life insurance policy or review your needs, our team of friendly advisers can help. Call our team today to discuss your options and find the right policy for your needs.

When you're looking to buy life insurance, one of the key questions to ask yourself is how much cover do you need? Everyone's situation is different, and some people may need more than others.

It’s important to make sure you don’t underinsure, just as it is to avoid over insuring. But is there a limit to how much cover you can actually take out?

What is the maximum amount of cover for life insurance?

There's no maximum amount you can be covered for by life insurance. Instead, it will depend on the insurer and your personal circumstances.

You may be able to apply for cover running into the millions, but whether you’re approved for that level will depend on things like your age, health, and risk.

If your insurer deems you to be a risk, for example, if you have a medical condition, they may not wish to insure you or charge more for cover. Learn more about determining how much life insurance you need.

What is the minimum amount of cover for life insurance?

Again, this varies by insurer. Some policies have a minimum starting point, in most cases, between £10,000-25,000. While others are more flexible and let you choose a lower amount.

This may depend on the type of policy you want. For example, if you're taking out term life insurance to cover a mortgage, you may only wish to have a cover amount that matches the remaining balance. Whereas if you plan to take out a whole of life policy, you may wish to have a larger amount of cover.

Can your life insurance cover be limited?

Insurers can place limits on how much they’re willing to cover you for. This could be due to your age, health, lifestyle, or the size of the policy you’ve asked for. For higher sums, you’ll often be asked to provide more detailed medical information, and in some cases a medical exam, before cover is agreed.

Policies like over 50s life insurance aren’t medically underwritten, so you won't need to answer any health questions or undergo a medical exam. Because of this, cover amounts are typically lower than for standard policies. These policies also tend to have higher monthly premiums due to your risk.

Why does it matter how much cover you have?

Along with the type of policy you choose, the amount of cover you have is one of the most crucial aspects when it comes to buying life cover. Having too little can leave your family vulnerable during difficult times, potentially struggling financially.

Whereas having more cover than needed can mean paying more in premiums than is necessary. The amount itself may not be too costly, but could be put towards other costs.

To work out a suitable amount of cover, think about what support your loved ones would need if you suddenly passed away. This can include costs such as mortgages, everyday expenses and even your own funeral costs.

Can you have more than one life insurance policy?

A common question people have is whether they can have multiple policies so they have additional cover. The good news is, yes, you can have more than one life insurance policy. In some cases, you may already have a policy through your employer and wish to have extra cover.

If you and your partner share financial responsibilities, it may be worth getting a joint life insurance policy. It covers two people under a single policy, often cheaper than taking out separate policies.

If you're unsure how much cover you need or which type of policy is right for you, Cavendish Online can help. Our friendly advisors are available to guide you through the process, helping you make informed decisions that suit your personal circumstances.

Already know what you need? You can apply for a quote through our website for our lowest premiums, and you could be covered within 30 minutes.

Please note: The insurance products offered by Cavendish Online have no cash-in value at any time. If you stop paying your premiums, your cover will stop, your policy will end, and you will receive no benefit. For term life insurance, if you have not claimed before the end of your chosen policy term, the policy will end, and no benefit will be paid.

Moving home can be an exciting but also stressful time. It's also a good time to consider having a life insurance policy in place, if you haven't already.

If you already have a policy, it could be time to review your cover to make sure it still matches your current financial situation.

Whether you have a new mortgage or are renting, life insurance can offer financial protection for your loved ones if anything happens to you. In this guide, we'll look at why you might need life cover when moving home, as well as the types of policies available.

Why you might need life insurance when moving house

Anyone who has ever moved house before will know first-hand what a life-changing moment it can be. Most notably, you could be taking on a new mortgage, which you may wish to cover.

If you already have life insurance, you may wish to increase your cover so that it matches your mortgage.

Whereas if you don't have cover in place, it may be a good idea to apply for a policy. Without one, it could leave your family financially vulnerable if you were to die before the mortgage is paid off. It may mean they have to sell the home if they can no longer afford payments.

You may be moving home due to the birth of a child, which is all the more reason to have cover. Should anything happen to you, the payout can be used to support them in your absence, whether that's living costs, education or as an inheritance.

Do you legally need life insurance to get a mortgage?

It's not a legal requirement to have life insurance when taking out a mortgage. Your lender cannot force you to take out a policy, but some may recommend it as part of the mortgage process.

Even if your mortgage lender doesn’t require cover, it’s worth thinking about the risks of going without it. If you were to die unexpectedly, your family could be left with mortgage payments they may struggle to afford. Having a policy in place can give peace of mind that your loved ones would not be forced to sell the home to meet repayments.

What if you're renting?

While life insurance is often associated with mortgages, renters can also benefit from having cover in place. Renting a home still comes with financial responsibilities, and if you have dependents or share your household costs with a partner, life insurance can help protect them if the unexpected happens.

If you were to pass away, your loved ones might struggle to keep up with rent payments or other bills without your income. A life insurance payout could help them stay in the home while they adjust, or give them financial breathing room to find a new place.

Even if you're renting alone, life insurance can still be useful. For example, it could help cover funeral costs or leave a financial gift to family members. If you're planning to rent long-term, or you're in a shared tenancy, it's worth considering how your absence could affect those around you.

Income protection and critical illness cover are also valuable options for renters. These policies can help you maintain rent payments if you're unable to work due to illness or injury, offering peace of mind that your home remains secure.

Types of life insurance to consider when moving house

There are a number of life policies that can be used to cover rent or mortgage payments. They can also be used to cover other costs that your loved ones may need support with during your absence.

Decreasing term life insurance

One of the main policies is decreasing term life insurance, also known as mortgage life insurance. This type of cover is commonly used to cover a repayment mortgage.

As a type of term life insurance, the policy lasts for a certain number of years (typically between 5-50). The payout amount and length are tailored to match the size and length of your mortgage. This amount decreases as you pay off your mortgage over time, whilst your premiums remain fixed.

Level term life insurance

Just as with decreasing term cover, level term life insurance lasts for a set number of years. During the policy, both the payout amount and cost of your monthly premiums remained fixed. Even as you get older, these amounts will stay the same.

You don't need to use it primarily to cover a mortgage, it can be used to cover other costs, such as living expenses, debts, and even funeral costs. It also tends to be cheaper than other types of cover, as the policy can expire.

Whole of life insurance

Whole of life insurance offers permanent protection, meaning it covers you for your entire lifetime, as long as you continue to pay the premiums.

This type of policy guarantees a payout to your beneficiaries whenever you pass away, a reliable option for those who want their loved ones to receive support for the future.

You may opt for whole-of-life cover if you wish to have cover even after your mortgage has been paid off. The payout can be used to cover your loved ones' living expenses or provide an inheritance for your children or grandchildren.

Because cover is permanent, premiums tend to be more expensive, though you don't have to worry about the policy expiring. The premiums for this kind of policy are also usually fixed unless you add indexation to help ensure the sum assured keeps up with inflation.

Joint life insurance

Many couples tend to take out a joint mortgage when buying a home, in which both are responsible for repaying the loan. For such couples, joint life insurance can be an ideal solution. This policy type covers two people under one policy.

The policy pays out only once, either on the first death or the second death, depending on the terms of the policy. In either case, it can leave the surviving policyholder protected. It could also be cheaper than having separate policies.

Income protection

Moving home often means taking on higher financial commitments, such as a larger mortgage or rent. Income protection provides a monthly benefit if you can’t work due to illness or injury.

This can be invaluable for covering household bills and keeping up with mortgage or rent payments if you lose your income for an extended period.

Critical illness cover

Critical illness cover pays out a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke. While it’s not life cover, it can be added to or taken alongside a policy. This cover can help you and your family manage mortgage payments, household costs, or expenses if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury.

What if you already have life insurance?

You should always review your policy whenever you experience significant life changes, like moving house. While your current life insurance policy may have suited your needs before, a new mortgage or rent could mean you need increased cover.

The same applies to any other life changes you go through, such as getting married, changing jobs or having children. For more information please see: When should I review my life insurance cover?

Get mortgage cover through Cavendish Online

Looking to protect your new home? You can get an instant online life insurance quote with Cavendish Online and see how much cover might cost in just a few minutes.

If you’d prefer to talk things through, our specialist advisers are here to help. They can guide you through your options, answer any questions, and find the right policy for your circumstances.

Whether you want peace of mind for your mortgage or broader family protection, we’ll make sure you get the cover you need.

There are lots of options at your disposal when it comes to buying life insurance. Level term life insurance is one type of policy in particular that can provide a cash lump sum in the event of your death. But what is it and how does it work?

We'll explain what you can expect from having level term cover and what you need to know before buying a policy.

What is level term life insurance & how does it work?

As with all types of term life insurance, the policy lasts for a set number of years. The policy will pay out as long as your death occurs within the term. If you survive the term, no payout will be made.

Level term is a specific level of term life insurance. How it works is in the name. During the policy, both the cost of your monthly premium and the future payout amount stay fixed. This means your premiums won't increase even if you're deep into the policy. Likewise, the value of your policy won't be affected.

Unlike other types of cover, like whole life insurance, it tends to be cheaper. However, there is no guarantee that the policy will pay out, and once it expires, you will no longer be covered.

What can level term life insurance be used for?

You can use a level term policy to cover a wide range of expenses. Because the policy lasts for a certain amount of time, it can be useful for covering costs like a mortgage. You can set the policy length to match the duration of your mortgage, so your family would be able to pay off the remaining balance if you die before.

There is another policy that is specifically designed to cover debts like mortgages, known as decreasing term life insurance. Unlike level term, the payout decreases over time as you make repayments on your mortgage. The premiums on this policy do remain fixed, but they’re usually cheaper than the premiums for level term insurance.

Level term cover can also be used to support your family's living costs. It can help them cover day-to-day expenses, such as food, clothing, childcare, and education costs.

You could also use it as an inheritance for your loved ones so they can be financially secure after you're gone. It can also be used for final expenses, as funerals can be unexpectedly expensive, alleviating the financial burden on your family during an already difficult time.

Why would I need level term cover instead of decreasing cover?

Level term cover can be more suitable if your financial responsibilities aren’t going to diminish over time. Unlike decreasing cover, where the payout drops as you pay off a debt like a mortgage, level term provides a fixed lump sum throughout the policy. This can be useful if you want the reassurance of knowing your family will receive the same payout.

It could also be the better option if you’re thinking beyond debts and want to protect your family’s lifestyle. For example, you may want your loved ones to have the money to cover everyday expenses and much more.

How long should I take out cover for?

How long your policy lasts is entirely up to you, but it’s worth thinking carefully about your circumstances. Policies typically last between 5 and 50 years, giving you flexibility to align cover with your main financial commitments.

For many people, the goal is to provide protection until their children are grown up and financially independent. Others may want cover to last until a mortgage is paid off or until their partner reaches retirement age.

If you’re in your 30s and have young children, for example, a 25-year policy could offer peace of mind until your children are old enough to support themselves.

How much cover do I need?

This is one of the most common questions people ask when looking into life insurance. But how much is really enough? The first step is to look at your current financial commitments and think about how they might change in the future.

For most people, this includes covering a mortgage or rent, replacing lost income, and making sure dependents are supported.

It’s also worth considering how inflation could affect your family’s costs over time. An amount that seems enough money today may not stretch as far as 20 years. At the same time, you’ll want to balance the level of cover with what you can realistically afford to pay in monthly premiums.

If you’re unsure, speaking with one of our advisers can be a big help. They can guide you through the different options and make sure you choose a policy that provides the right level of protection.

How much does a level term policy cost?

Term policies are usually cheaper than other types of policies, though there are several factors that can determine costs. When you apply, your insurer will want to know information such as:

• Your age

• Health and lifestyle

• Occupation

• Smoker status

• Length of cover

• Payout amount

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you may still be able to get cover, though, depending on the severity, it could cost more than for others.

Premiums tend to be cheaper when you are younger and are assumed to be healthy. Because premiums are fixed, buying level term cover when you are young could save you money in the long run.

Can I add extras to my policy?

When taking out life insurance, you’ll usually have the option to add extra features to tailor the policy to your needs. These add-ons can increase your premiums, but they also provide additional protection.

Critical illness cover allows your policy to pay out a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness listed in the policy, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke. It can provide vital financial support if you need to take time off work or cover medical costs, rather than only paying out on death.

If you’re in a couple, joint life cover can protect both partners under one policy. It usually pays out once, on the first death, which can make it cheaper than taking out two separate policies. This could be ideal if you want to make sure your partner is financially secure if something happens to you.

These extras aren’t essential for everyone, but they can provide added peace of mind and make your cover more comprehensive.

Speak to an adviser today

Choosing the right life insurance can feel overwhelming. This is especially true if you have medical disclosures, a high-risk job, or you’re simply unsure which type of cover is best for your family. That’s where our advisers can step in. 

With a quick call, our friendly team will take the time to understand your circumstances and guide you through your options, so you can be confident you’re getting protection that truly meets your needs.

When you speak with an adviser, they’ll search the whole market on your behalf and recommend policies that suit your budget and lifestyle. They’ll also handle the application process from start to finish, keeping things simple and stress-free. And because their support doesn’t stop once your policy is in place, you’ll have someone you can turn to whenever you need advice.

Speak to an adviser today to get started. Or if you know what you need, you can apply for a quote online. You could be covered within 30 minutes.

It's estimated that around 1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer in their lifetime[1] in the UK. It's also the 2nd most common cancer in the UK, accounting for 14% of all new cancer cases[2].

Having life insurance could make a world of difference for your loved ones financially. If you’ve had prostate cancer, you might wonder whether this affects your chances of getting cover. Or if you have a family history of prostate cancer, you may be concerned about its implications for future insurance policies.

The good news is that having had prostate cancer doesn't automatically disqualify you from applying for life cover. In this guide, we'll explain how it can affect a potential policy as well as what insurers tend to look at.

If you’re over 50, Black, or have a family history of the disease, your risk may be higher. The earlier it’s found, the easier it is to treat. Use Prostate Cancer UK's risk checker to learn more.

Does life insurance cover prostate cancer​?

Life insurance typically covers deaths as a result of cancer, including prostate cancer. As long as you have an active policy and you were honest about your medical history, your policy should pay out as normal. When this happens, your family will receive a cash lump sum as agreed upon in your policy.

It’s important to note that life insurance doesn’t pay out on diagnosis alone. A claim is only valid if the policyholder dies during the term of the policy, or is given less than 12 months to live (a terminal diagnosis).

Some people choose to add critical illness cover alongside life insurance. This is a separate benefit that can pay out a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness, including certain types of cancers.

Can you get life insurance if you've had prostate cancer?​

It may be possible to get life insurance after prostate cancer. As with any health condition, your ability to get cover will depend on the severity. When you apply for cover, insurers will ask you a series of questions about your history of prostate cancer. This usually includes;

• The age of your cancer diagnosis

• Stage and grade of prostate cancer

• Your Gleason score

• Any treatment you received, such as surgery, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, etc.

• How long you’ve been in remission

• Your PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) reading then/now

• Current health and follow-up checks

Insurers will also take into account any additional medical conditions you have. For example, if you have a chronic illness in addition to a history of prostate cancer, your risk profile might be considered higher.

If you're unsure whether you'd be eligible for life insurance, our specialist advisers can help. They'll be able to guide you through the application process and find a policy suitable for your circumstances. Speak to an adviser today.

Can you be denied life insurance because of prostate cancer?

If you're still living with prostate cancer, receiving treatment,  or recently recovered from prostate cancer, you may be denied standard cover or your application may be postponed.

Over 50s life insurance, however, is not medically underwritten, so you’re guaranteed cover, but it does exclude pre-existing conditions.

For anyone under 50, there are specialist providers that may be able to do non-medically underwritten cover, but these are typically only available through an insurance adviser. 

You can contact our team of insurance advisers on

01392 436193 

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

Many people who are in remission and have recovered fully are still able to obtain life insurance. However, the terms and premiums of the policy may vary depending on your medical history and overall health.

For more information, please see our guide on what you can do if you've been declined life insurance.

How long after prostate cancer can you apply?

This will depend on your insurer's underwriting process, as how they assess risk can vary.

Some insurers may allow you to apply after a complete response period of just one or two years.

Others may require a more extended remission period, such as five or ten years, before considering your application.

In most cases, the longer you have been free from cancer, the more likely you are to receive cover. By this time, they will be able to determine that a full recovery has been made and that there's less chance of the cancer returning.

How does prostate cancer affect premiums?

How much you pay for life insurance usually depends on factors such as your age and the type of policy you wish to buy. However, if you have a pre-existing condition (in this case, prostate cancer), your premiums will likely be higher than usual.

The same applies if you have any additional health issues or risk factors that could impact your overall life expectancy, such as being a smoker.

Insurers will always conduct a detailed review of your medical history. This includes the stage and grade of the prostate cancer, treatment received, and current health status, to assess the risk.

Working with a specialist life insurance adviser can be particularly helpful. We understand how different insurers assess prostate cancer and can help find the most suitable and cost-effective policy for your situation.

Types of life insurance that may be available

Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to secure policies such as:

• Whole life insurance – covers you for the rest of your life, paying out a cash lump sum in the event of your death. Your premiums and payout amount are fixed throughout the policy.
   

• Term life insurance – covers you for a specified time, typically between 5-50 years. The policy pays out so long as you die within the agreed term; if not, it expires, and no payout is made. It's often used to cover expenses like mortgages. Premiums are usually fixed unless you add on indexation.
   

• Joint life insurance – usually purchased as a term policy, covering two people under one policy. It pays out after one of the policyholders dies or once both have died. It's usually purchased by couples who want to protect each other in the event of death. Premiums are usually fixed unless you add on indexation.
   

• Over 50s life insurance – designed for people aged 50-80, offering guaranteed acceptance for cover. No medical information is required, though there is typically a waiting period of 12-14 months. Premiums are usually fixed for this type of policy.

If you are unable to apply for these types of policies, there are other options available such as guaranteed life insurance. This is intended for people who may have difficulty qualifying for traditional policies due to medical histories.

Like over-50s cover, it does not require a medical exam or health questions. However, it typically offers lower cover amounts, higher premiums and a waiting period before benefits are paid.

Do you have to tell insurers about your cancer history?

When you apply for life insurance, you have to be 100% honest about the information you give, including a previous prostate cancer diagnosis. Failing to disclose such information can lead to consequences, including your policy being cancelled or having a future claim denied.

Even if you think it could increase your premiums, it's always better to be upfront and transparent with your insurer.

Get expert advice from Cavendish Online

If you’re still unsure about your eligibility for life insurance after prostate cancer, our specialist advisers are here to help.

They can answer any questions you have, explain how insurers assess risk, and guide you through the application process to find a policy that suits your circumstances. Speak to an expert today and explore your options with confidence.

[1]https://prostatecanceruk.org/prostate-information-and-support/risk-and-symptoms/about-prostate-cancer/

[2]https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/statistics-by-cancer-type/prostate-cancer

Each life insurance policy has a unique reference number, so your insurer can easily identify your policy. Without it, insurers can still find the policy, but it may take longer.

It is also needed for making a claim or managing your policy. For example, you may wish to update your personal details or payment information.

In other cases, you may just want to check how much cover you have or when the policy ends. If you're struggling to find your policy or number or are not sure where to start looking, here are several steps you can take:

Check your policy documents

When you take out a life insurance, you'll be sent several documents, such as the policy declaration page, the policy booklet, and other associated documents. These documents typically include your policy number prominently displayed on the first page.

They can often come in physical form, though it's now common for them to be sent to you via email. Make sure to mark these as important and store them in a safe, easily accessible location.

The same will apply to other policies, such as critical illness cover and income protection.

Check bank statements or direct debits

If you pay monthly premiums, your bank statements should show the name of your insurer. It's a good starting point, even if you can’t see the policy number itself.

Contact your insurer and provide details of your payments, such as the date and amount of your direct debits. They can use this information to trace your policy and confirm your policy number. This is handy if you no longer have the original paperwork or emails.

If you have a joint life insurance policy, you may not be the main account holder, but you can still use the relevant bank statements to identify payments related to the policy.

Contact your insurance provider

If you still can’t find your policy number, the simplest option is to get in touch with your insurer directly. You can usually do this over the phone or by email.

They will ask for some basic personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and address. In some cases, they may also request your National Insurance number to help verify your identity.

Once they’ve confirmed your details, they should be able to locate your policy and provide your policy number.

If you're claiming someone else's policy, you'll need to provide the policy number as well as other details. For more information, please see: How to make a life insurance claim.

Contact your insurance broker or adviser

If you purchased your policy through a broker, they should have a record of it on file. This can be a quick way to recover your policy details, especially if you’ve moved house or changed banks and can’t easily track the information yourself.

If you have purchased a policy through Cavendish Online, please get in touch with one of our advisers who will be more than willing to help.

Use online portals or apps

Most insurers now provide secure online portals or mobile apps where you can manage or review your cover. Once logged in, you’ll usually be able to view your policy number, download documents, and check your cover details.

If you haven’t registered yet, you can normally set up an account using your policy information, though sometimes your insurer can help you register using other personal details.

Check with your employer

Lots of employers offer life insurance cover as part of their employee benefits package, often referred to as group life insurance.

If you receive cover through your workplace, your HR or payroll department should be able to confirm the details of your cover. While you may not be given the policy number, they can confirm your cover and guide you on how to access your policy information.

Search unclaimed assets databases (last resort)

If you suspect there’s a life insurance policy but can’t find any paperwork, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) may be of help. This could be a useful option if you’re trying to track down a policy for a relative who has passed away.

For more information, see: How to check if your loved one had life insurance

Tip: Keep your policy details safe

Once you’ve tracked down your policy number, make sure you keep a record of it somewhere secure.

You can store copies of your policy documents, both in physical and digital form, and let a trusted family member or executor know where they are. This can make things a little bit easier when it comes to managing your policy or making a claim in the future.

If you have any other questions about your life insurance policy, please get in touch with Cavendish Online. Our advisers can provide advice on updating your policy as well as reviewing how much cover you may need.

Having an insurance policy doesn't necessarily mean a successful claim is guaranteed. Critical illness cover, in particular, has guidelines on what is and isn't covered. There could be certain circumstances where your claim could be denied, even if you’re sure you meet the criteria.

In this guide, we'll outline some of the main reasons for a claim denial and what your options are.

What is critical illness insurance?

Critical illness insurance pays out a lump sum if you are diagnosed with a serious health condition listed in the policy. It typically covers medical conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and cancer, amongst others. It can be bought alongside life insurance or as a standalone policy.

In essence, it could offer you a helping hand if your life is significantly impacted by a severe illness.

If you are unable to work, it may provide financial support to cover costs such as medical expenses, household costs, or any necessary lifestyle adjustments as you recover.

Why do critical illness claims get rejected?

There's a number of reasons why critical illness claims can be denied. Each insurer will have their own guidelines on what is covered and whether any specific criteria is required.

Understanding these reasons could help you prepare better and give your claim the best chance of success:

Non-disclosure or misrepresentation

Just like applying for life cover, you have to be completely honest and accurate with the information you provide. This includes any health conditions, medications, as well as lifestyle habits.

If, for example, you have a long-term condition you didn’t mention, or you left out that you are a smoker, your insurer might argue that you weren’t truthful when you took out the policy. Even if it wasn’t intentional, this kind of omission can lead to a rejected claim.

Waiting periods

Critical illness policies typically feature a specified waiting period. During this time, you won’t be able to make a claim, even if you’re diagnosed with a listed condition. This is intended to prevent you from taking out cover if you already suspect something is wrong.

If your illness is diagnosed or symptoms start during this period, your claim is likely to be rejected. Each insurer will have its own timeframe for waiting periods, so it's crucial to familiarise yourself with the specifics of your policy.

Not meeting the policy definition

Insurance providers have their own individual definition when it comes to what counts as a critical illness. It’s not enough to just be diagnosed with a condition; it usually has to meet a specific set of criteria as well.

For example, if you are diagnosed with cancer, you may only be covered if it’s invasive or has reached a certain stage, while a stroke may need to result in lasting neurological damage. If your illness doesn’t match the definition exactly as set out in your policy, the claim can be declined.

Illness excluded by the policy

Some illnesses may not be covered by critical illness insurance. This is either due to specific exclusions in your policy or because they aren’t considered severe enough to warrant a payout.

Insurance providers often have a list of conditions that are explicitly excluded. This may include mild forms of cancer, certain mental health conditions, or illnesses linked to drug or alcohol misuse.

These details are usually tucked away in the policy documents, so it’s easy to miss them. If your condition falls under one of these exclusions, your claim will be rejected regardless of the impact it may have on your life.

Learn more about the illnesses typically covered by critical illness.

Policy not active at time of diagnosis

As with any insurance policy, your cover will usually stop if you don’t pay your premiums. If your payments have lapsed. If you’re diagnosed at this time, the insurer isn’t obliged to pay out. The same applies if the policy was cancelled, expired, or hadn’t officially started when you became ill.

What can I do if my claim is rejected?

If your claim is rejected, it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of the road. First and foremost, you need to understand exactly why the insurer turned it down. They should provide a clear explanation in writing

If it’s a case of missing information, you may only need to provide more documents and resubmit your claim. However, if it's a policy exclusion, there isn't much you can do to change the outcome unless you have grounds for a dispute.

If you still disagree with the decision, you can formally appeal it through the insurer’s complaints process. This might be in cases where the insurer does not believe your illness meets the policy's criteria.

You can also escalate the issue to the Financial Ombudsman Service. They’ll review your case independently and decide whether the insurer acted fairly. This process is free, and you don’t need a solicitor to make a complaint. However, legal advice can help if the case is complex.

How do I make a critical illness claim?

To start the claims process, you’ll need to get in touch with your insurer directly, usually by phone or email. Most providers have a dedicated claims team you can speak to during working hours.

When you call, they’ll ask for a few key details such as:

• Your policy number
   

• The condition you’ve been diagnosed with
   

• Contact details for your GP or medical consultant

Once you’ve notified them, they’ll do some initial checks to see whether your condition is potentially covered under the policy. They may ask you to provide any letters or medical records you’ve already received from your doctor or consultant. They can also request these directly if needed.

After this, they’ll send you some straightforward forms to complete and return, either by email or post.

From that point on, your claims handler will take over and keep you updated throughout the process. You’ll still need to keep paying your premiums while the claim is being assessed.

Need advice on critical illness insurance?

If you're feeling unsure about critical illness cover, whether you’d be eligible, or you’ve got questions about making a claim, we’re here to help.

Our friendly advisers can talk you through how it all works, explain what’s covered (and what’s not), and help you understand whether a policy is right for your circumstances.

If you’re thinking about making a claim or just want to know where you stand, we’ll guide you through the process step by step.

Call our advice team on

01392 436 193

Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm

Having asthma is very common. In the UK alone, it is estimated that around 8 in every 100 people¹ live with the condition. If you're thinking of taking out life insurance, you may be wondering how asthma could affect your application, or whether it might stop you from getting cover altogether.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how asthma may impact your options, what insurers typically look for, as well as how to improve your chances of getting affordable cover.

Does Asthma Affect Life Insurance?

The good news is that in most cases, having asthma won’t prevent you from getting life insurance cover. However, it could affect the cost of your premiums or the questions you’re asked during the application process.

Everyone’s experience with asthma is different. Some people are diagnosed with asthma during their childhood, whereas others may develop it later in life. Insurers will want to understand what type you have and how well it’s managed.

For example:

• The most common type is exercise-induced asthma (bronchoconstriction), where symptoms are triggered by physical activity.
   

• People with allergic asthma may be triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
   

• Those with non-allergic asthma might react to things like stress, cold air, or illness.
   

• Some people suffer from seasonal asthma, where symptoms are worse during certain times of the year (often spring or autumn).

As with any pre-existing medical condition, the main thing insurers are looking at is how well your asthma is controlled. If your symptoms are mild and well-managed, it may be less likely to impact your ability to get cover.

How Does Asthma Affect the Cost of Life Insurance?

Even though asthma is usually considered a low-risk medical condition, it can still affect how much you pay for life insurance. In most cases, it comes down to the severity of your symptoms and how well your condition is managed.

When you apply, insurers will ask a few medical questions to get a better understanding of your health. Some of the key details they’ll want to know include:

• When you were diagnosed with asthma
   

• How often you experience symptoms
   

• What medication or treatment you use (e.g. inhalers, oral steroids)
   

• Whether you’ve ever been hospitalised because of your asthma
   

• If you suffer from asthma attacks or complications
   

• Whether you smoke

If your asthma is mild and well-controlled, and you’ve had no recent hospital visits, you may still be offered standard rates (the same as someone without asthma).

However, if you experience frequent symptoms, have been hospitalised, or suffer from severe attacks, your premiums could be higher. Being a smoker can also push up the cost, especially when combined with a condition like asthma.

Other factors could also increase your premiums, such as your age, health and the type of policy you want to take out.

What Type of Life Insurance Is Best If You Have Asthma?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but having asthma doesn’t limit the types of life cover you can apply for. The best option for you will usually depend on things like your budget, what you're looking to protect, and how long you need cover for.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the main types:

• Term life insurance covers you for a fixed number of years, for example, 20 or 30 years. It’s usually the more affordable option and is ideal if you want cover while your children are growing up or while your mortgage is being paid off.
   

• Whole of life insurance lasts until you die, whenever that may be. It guarantees a payout, but because the cover lasts forever, it tends to be more expensive.
   

• Decreasing term cover is often used to cover a repayment mortgage. The payout amount goes down over time, in line with your remaining mortgage balance.

If you have asthma, you can still apply for any of these options. For most people with mild to moderate symptoms, the impact on their cover could be minimal.

Please note: The insurance products offered by Cavendish Online have no cash-in value at any time. If you stop paying your premiums your cover will stop, your policy will end, and you will receive no benefit.

If you are facing financial difficulty, please contact your insurer before cancelling your policy or letting it lapse. They may have options available that means you don't have to lose the plan.

Do I need to disclose asthma on a life insurance application?

Yes, any health condition, even if it seems minor, should be disclosed on your life insurance application.

Failing to mention your asthma could affect your cover in serious ways. For example, if you were to pass away due to a respiratory-related issue and the insurer found out you hadn’t disclosed your asthma, they could refuse to pay out a claim.

Even if the cause of death is unrelated, insurers have the right to review your medical history when a claim is made. If they find that you withheld information, they could cancel your policy altogether.

It’s always better to be upfront about your health, even if it means slightly higher premiums.

Do You Need a Medical Exam to Get Life Insurance with Asthma?

In most cases, you won't need a medical exam if you apply for life insurance with asthma. However, if you have additional health conditions, such as heart problems, your insurer may ask to run some basic checks.

​Can You Get Critical Illness Cover With Asthma?

Similar to applying for life insurance, having asthma doesn’t automatically prevent you from getting critical illness cover. Instead, it could affect the outcome depending on the severity of your condition.

It’s also important to note that asthma itself is not usually listed as a condition you can claim for under critical illness cover. However, complications that arise as a result of asthma, like respiratory failure, may be covered if they meet the insurer’s definition of a critical illness.

Speak to the experts...

Give our advisers a call today.

Our team of friendly and professional advisers are on hand to help with any questions you may have regarding Life Insurance.

The advisers can also make recommendations tailored to your current situation and will research the market on your behalf, ensuring you secure the cover you need and supporting you every step of the way. 

01392 436193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

[1]https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/conditions/asthma/types-asthma

Applying for life insurance can be a bit trickier if you're applying with a disability or pre-existing medical condition. But that doesn't mean you're 100% likely to be denied cover. Many people with disabilities are able to get life insurance, but that largely depends on the circumstances.

In this guide, we’ll look at how having a disability might affect your options, what insurers typically ask, and what options may be available to you.

Can I get life insurance if I'm disabled?

You can sometimes still get life insurance if you're disabled, however, the process for applying may be different from usual.

Disability in itself can refer to both physical and mental conditions, and insurers will usually assess your individual circumstances to determine the level of risk involved.

Life insurance tends to be available for disability types such as:

• Neurological conditions
   

• Musculoskeletal disorders
   

• Cognitive impairments
   

• Hearing or visual impairments

In certain cases, an insurance company could deny you cover if you are deemed high risk. This is when the insurer has determined that the likelihood of a payout is significantly higher based on your health condition.

However, not all situations are viewed the same. Even if one provider declines you, others may still be open to offering cover, potentially with a higher premium or some exclusions in place.

Will I need life insurance if I'm disabled?

It's estimated that there are 16 million disabled people in the UK[1], many of whom could benefit from having a life insurance policy.

Life insurance can provide a financial safety net for your loved ones should anything happen to you. This could be especially important if you have dependents who rely on your income or care.

Having life insurance in place can cover various expenses. For example, it could help cover your funeral costs rather than leaving the burden to your family. It could also be used to pay off any outstanding debts, such as a mortgage or personal loans, so your loved ones are not left with them instead.

While life insurance isn't mandatory, it can be beneficial for providing peace of mind and financial security for your loved ones.

How will my disability impact life insurance?

Having a disability can impact life insurance in more ways than one.

Starting with the application process, you will need to disclose your disability along with any other conditions you have. It's imperative to be honest about your health, otherwise, you could run the risk of your policy being voided later on or a claim being denied.

The insurer will use this information to assess your level of risk, which can influence whether they offer you cover, and if so, how much you’ll pay in premiums. It may be the case that your disability has little or no effect on the terms of the policy, particularly if it’s well-managed and doesn’t significantly impact your life expectancy.

However, if your condition is progressive or has led to other complications (such as regular hospital stays), you may face higher premiums or find that certain causes of death are excluded from the policy.

Is life insurance more expensive with a disability?

Generally speaking, life insurance premiums are typically more expensive for those with health conditions, including disabilities. This is because, in the eyes of the insurer, you may be more likely to pose a higher risk, meaning the chance of a claim being made is perceived to be greater.

The cost of your premiums may vary depending on factors like the type of disability, its severity, and your overall health and lifestyle habits.

However, not all disabilities will result in higher premiums. A minor disability could mean that your premiums remain similar to those without disabilities. Insurers often evaluate the specifics of each case, including how well your disability is managed and its impact on your day-to-day life.

You may also face higher premiums if you have any additional health conditions, such as heart problems. Or if your family medical history indicates a higher likelihood of developing certain illnesses. Lifestyle choices like smoking can also influence your premium costs.

What types of cover are available?

There are various types of life insurance policies to choose from. Two of the main options are term life insurance and life assurance (also known as whole life insurance).

Term life insurance typically covers you for a set number of years (often between 5-50 years). The policy pays out so long as you die within the term you agreed upon. If you survive the policy term, no payout will be made.

It offers three levels of cover:

1. Level term – the payout stays the same throughout the policy.

2. Decreasing term – the payout reduces over time, often used alongside a repayment mortgage.

3. Increasing term – the payout amount rises over time to keep up with inflation.

Life assurance (also known as whole life insurance) provides cover for the rest of your life. It guarantees a payout whenever you die, as long as you keep paying the premiums. Because of this lifelong cover, it usually comes at a higher cost than term insurance.

If you're disabled, you might find it harder to get accepted for some of these policies, particularly if your condition is considered high risk. In that case, guaranteed acceptance life insurance could be a suitable alternative.

This type of cover is usually available without medical questions, although the payout tends to be smaller and there’s often a waiting period before full cover is active.

Please note: The insurance products offered by Cavendish Online have no cash-in value at any time. If you stop paying your premiums your cover will stop, your policy will end, and you will receive no benefit. If you have not claimed before the end of your chosen policy term, the policy will end, and no benefit will be paid.

Can I Be Refused Life Insurance if I'm disabled?

Legally, insurance companies can refuse to insure you if they determine you are high-risk. They also have the right to apply exclusions or conditions to any policy they offer you. However, they have a duty to inform you of the reasons for a denial or why they're charging you more.

Does life insurance pay out for disability?

Life insurance does not cover disability, it only covers you in the event of death.

If you're looking for protection in case you become seriously ill or disabled, there are other types of cover that may be more suitable:

• Critical illness cover can pay out a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious condition or become permanently disabled due to illness or injury. This money could help you manage day-to-day expenses, treatment costs, or even adapt your home if needed.
   

• Income protection insurance can pay you a monthly benefit if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury, including disabilities caused by accidents or medical conditions.

If you’d like to understand more about how these policies work, you can speak with one of our trained advisers who can talk you through your options.

Will my disability affect a life insurance payout?

Your disability won’t affect a life insurance payout, as long as you were honest about your health when you applied.

Life insurance is designed to pay out when you pass away, regardless of whether or not you have a disability. However, if your death is linked to a condition you didn’t disclose during the application process, the insurer could withhold payment or reduce the payout.

That’s why it’s important to be upfront about your health and any disabilities you have when taking out cover. As long as everything is declared and your policy is active, your loved ones should receive the full benefit amount when you pass away.

At Cavendish Online, we help you find the right cover for your needs, including options if you’re living with a disability or pre-existing condition. Get a quote online or talk to an adviser today.

[1] https://www.scope.org.uk/media/disability-facts-figures

It’s estimated that around 1 million people in the UK live with bipolar disorder¹. If you’ve been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, you may be wondering how it could affect your chances of getting life insurance cover.

While it’s true that having a mental health condition can make the application process a little more complicated, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get cover. In many cases, people with bipolar disorder are still able to get life insurance.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how insurers assess bipolar, what questions you’re likely to be asked, and what your options are if you've previously been declined.

Can I apply for life Insurance if I have bipolar disorder?

Yes, you can apply for life insurance if you have bipolar disorder or any other mental health condition. You won’t be disqualified from applying simply because of your diagnosis, but insurers will want to know more about your condition before making a decision.

Bipolar disorder can cause extreme mood swings, from emotional highs (mania or hypomania) to deep lows (manic depression or suicidal thoughts).

It affects people differently, and the severity, frequency, and treatment of your episodes all play a role in how insurer providers assess your application.

What will insurers ask when you apply?

As with any type of health condition, whether that be mental or physical, your insurer will want to know more about your condition. In terms of bipolar disorder, they may ask questions regarding:

• The type of bipolar disorder you have (e.g. Bipolar I, Bipolar II, cyclothymia)
   

• When you were diagnosed
   

• How often you experience episodes
   

• Whether your condition is stable or currently being treated
   

• What medication you take
   

• Whether you’ve had any hospitalisations, suicidal thoughts, or self-harm incidents
   

• If you’re currently under the care of a mental health professional

It's crucial to be honest about the information you provide to insurers. Perhaps you may be worried about disclosing your condition due to rejection or higher premiums. But failing to do so could have future consequences.

If something were to happen and your insurer finds out you didn’t provide accurate information, they could deny a claim or even cancel the policy entirely.

Will having bipolar increase the cost of life insurance?

Depending on your individual circumstances, you may face higher premiums than someone without bipolar. In some cases, the amount of cover you can take out may be limited, or the insurer may postpone the application if your condition is recently diagnosed or currently unstable.

Your age and medical history can impact the cost of cover. Typically, those who are young, in generally good health could pay less compared to older individuals or those with health issues.

What’s the best life insurance for bipolar disorder?

If you have bipolar disorder, you still have access to the same types of life insurance as anyone else, though this depends on your circumstances.

The two main types of life cover are:

Term life insurance, which covers you for a set number of years, often between 5-50 years. It’s available as:

• Level term – the payout stays the same throughout the policy
   

• Decreasing term – the payout reduces over time, often used to cover a repayment mortgage
   

• Increasing term – the payout rises over time to keep up with inflation

Term cover is usually more affordable and a popular option for people looking to protect their family or mortgage during certain life stages.

Whole of life insurance (also known as life assurance) lasts for your entire lifetime, and guarantees a payout whenever you pass away. Premiums are typically higher, but it may be worth considering if you’re looking for long-term cover to help with funeral costs or leave a financial legacy.

If you’re finding it difficult to get standard life insurance, you could consider guaranteed life insurance. This is a type of policy that doesn’t require any medical questions, so you’re guaranteed to be accepted regardless of your health. However, it usually has lower payout limits and comes with a waiting period (e.g. the first 12–24 months).

Guaranteed policies can be a helpful safety net if you’ve been declined elsewhere, but it’s worth exploring standard options first.

Is bipolar classed as a critical illness?

You may also be wondering whether bipolar disorder is covered under critical illness insurance, or if you can get this type of cover.

Bipolar is not typically classed as a critical illness. Critical illness cover is usually designed to pay out if you’re diagnosed with a serious physical condition, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke.

Mental health conditions, including bipolar, aren’t usually included on the list of illnesses that trigger a claim. However, some related complications, like permanent disability due to mental illness, might be covered, depending on the insurer and the wording of the policy.

If you’re applying for critical illness cover and you have bipolar disorder, your insurer could: offer you cover with a mental health exclusion or increase your premiums. They could even decline your application, depending on the severity and history of your condition.

It’s also possible that your application may be accepted if your condition is stable and well-managed. Even more so if you’ve been symptom-free for a long time and haven’t needed hospital treatment or medication recently.

Can I get income protection if I have bipolar?

The same general rules apply when it comes to income protection. While having bipolar disorder doesn’t automatically rule you out, it can make it more challenging to get this type of cover if your condition has caused time off work or hospital admissions.

Insurers will want to know more about how your condition could impact your ability to work in the future and the likelihood of making a claim.

Some insurers may offer income protection but exclude mental health-related claims, while others may charge a higher premium or offer a reduction in cover.

Support when applying for life insurance with bipolar disorder

If you’re unsure where to start or have been declined before, Cavendish Online can help. Our friendly and experienced advisors are here to support you every step of the way.

We know that everyone’s situation is different. Whether you’d prefer to chat over the phone, book in a call at a time that suits you. Our advisers are used to handling sensitive disclosures with kindness, professionalism, and care.

Once we have the information we need, we’ll get to work researching the whole market, including insurers who take a more flexible approach to mental health conditions. We’ll then come back to you with clear, tailored recommendations based on your personal circumstances.

If we can’t find you a medically underwritten policy straight away, we’ll talk you through any alternative options, and check back in with you regularly in case your situation changes.

If you’re ready to explore your options, you can get a quote online in minutes. Or, you can call our expert team on

01392 436193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm).

[1] https://www.bipolaruk.org/understanding-bipolar

Critical illness cover is a type of protection that pays out a lump sum in the event you are diagnosed with a certain illness or disability. Just like death, illness or injury can happen at any time in life, and could leave you and your loved ones struggling to make ends meet.

No matter your financial situation, it's always handy to have cover, especially if others depend on you. In this guide, we'll explain critical illness in further detail as well as answer some of the key questions you may have.

What is critical illness insurance and how does it work?

Critical illness insurance is designed to provide financial support if you are diagnosed with a serious illness, injury or disability. When you are diagnosed with a condition covered by the policy, your insurer pays out a tax-free lump sum. This money could be used to support you and your loved ones if you are unable to work or require additional care.

The main purpose of this payout is to alleviate the financial stress that can come with a significant health challenge, allowing you to focus on your recovery or manage your health better.

Most policies have a certain timeframe before you can make a claim, typically 10-14 days. Unlike life insurance, the policy does not pay out for death. Instead, it acts as a safety net, covering a range of specified illnesses such as heart attack, stroke, and cancer.

When you take out a policy, you choose how long you want it to last. The policy then pays out, provided you are diagnosed within this time. Once you reach the end of the term, the policy expires, and you won't be able to make a claim for any future diagnoses.

Types of critical illness cover

There are two distinct types of critical illness policies to choose:

• Level cover: The amount you’re insured for stays the same throughout the policy term. This means that if you’re diagnosed with a covered illness at any point during the term, the payout will be the full amount you originally chose. People often choose this cover if they want a fixed lump sum to help replace income, cover living costs, or provide financial support for their family.
   

• Decreasing cover: The amount you’re insured for reduces over time, usually in line with a repayment mortgage. Because the payout reduces, premiums tend to be cheaper than level cover. This policy is ideal if you want protection that matches the outstanding balance of a mortgage or large loan, so debts can be cleared if you fall seriously ill.

What does critical illness insurance cover?

The list of conditions covered will differ from provider to provider. For example, some insurers may cover conditions like dementia and Parkinson’s disease, while others might not.

Amongst the most commonly covered conditions are:

• Certain types of cancer
   

• Heart attack (of specified severity)
   

• Stroke (resulting in permanent symptoms)
   

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
   

• Motor neurone disease (MND)
   

• Major organ transplant (e.g., heart, lung, liver, kidney, pancreas)
   

• Blindness (permanent and irreversible)
   

• Deafness (permanent and irreversible)
   

• Loss of limb(s)
   

• Loss of speech (permanent)

For a detailed list of what's covered, please see our guide: What illnesses does critical illness insurance cover?

How much critical illness cover do I need?

Just like life insurance, the amount of cover you need will depend on your personal circumstances. Everyone has different financial responsibilities and needs, so it's essential to consider what expenses you would need help covering.

For some people, this might mean matching the cover amount to their outstanding mortgage, so their home is secure if they can’t work. For others, it might mean covering several years of lost income or ensuring children’s education and household bills are taken care of.

If you're unsure about how much cover you may need, ask yourself:

• Would my family be able to keep up with mortgage or rent payments?
   

• How long could we manage on savings alone?
   

• Would my partner or dependents need ongoing financial support?
   

• Are there other large commitments, like school fees or loans, that need to be covered?
   

• Do you have sickness cover through work as part of your employee benefits package?

Having more cover isn't always better, often meaning higher premiums, which might strain your budget. A good approach is to choose a realistic level of protection that would remove the biggest financial pressures from your loved ones without stretching your budget.

How much does critical illness insurance cost?

Premiums for critical illness insurance typically depend on factors such as:

• Age
   

• Health - including any pre-existing conditions
   

• Occupation
   

• Length of cover
   

• Desired payout amount

Generally, the younger and healthier you are when you take out a policy, the lower your premiums are likely to be. Insurers assess these factors to determine the risk of you making a claim and price the policy accordingly.

For example, if you have a pre-existing medical condition at the time of applying, you may be required to pay higher premiums. In some cases, the condition might be excluded from the cover altogether. Always make sure to review the terms of the policy carefully to understand any exclusions or special conditions that might apply.

Can I get life insurance with critical illness cover?

Many insurers offer the option to combine life insurance or life assurance with critical illness cover. This means you’re protected if you’re diagnosed with a covered critical illness during the policy term, as well as if you pass away.

It can be a convenient choice, as you only pay one premium and manage one policy, rather than having two separate plans. For families, this combined cover can provide peace of mind that loved ones will be financially supported no matter what happens.

However, it’s worth noting that most combined policies only pay out once. This means if you make a successful claim for a critical illness, there wouldn’t be a further payout if you later passed away.

Is critical illness cover worth it?

Whether critical illness cover is worth it will depend on your personal circumstances, but for many people it can be a valuable safety net. A serious illness can have a huge impact not just on your health, but also on your finances.

Knowing that you and your family could receive a lump sum if you were diagnosed with a serious condition means you don’t have to worry as much about how bills will be paid or how debts will be managed.

Of course, critical illness cover won’t be right for everyone. If you have no dependents, a very low mortgage or rent, or significant savings you could fall back on, you might feel you don’t need the extra protection. But for most people with financial commitments or family responsibilities, the reassurance of having cover often outweighs the cost of the monthly premiums.

There are also policies that can be helpful such as income protection.

How to get critical illness cover through Cavendish Online

You can apply for critical illness insurance with Cavendish Online in three simple ways:

1.  Apply online

• Best suited if you have no medical disclosures and want a straightforward application.
   

• The amount of critical illness cover must match your life cover (you can’t apply for a lower amount of critical illness cover).
   

• To add it, simply select critical illness as a policy extra once you’ve received your quote for life insurance.
   

• Keep in mind: only a limited range of providers and policies are available online. For more choice, it’s worth using our phone-based services.

Apply for a quote online

2. Apply over the phone with guidance

• Ideal if you know roughly what you want but prefer to go through the process with a person.
   

• Our Guidance team can give you quick quotes and help complete your application.
   

• Unlike the online route, you can choose different levels of critical Illness and life cover.

01329 248735

(Monday to Thursday 10am – 7pm, Friday 10am – 6pm)

3. Apply over the phone with advice

• Recommended if you have medical disclosures, a high-risk job, or if you’re unsure which policy suits you best.
   

• Our Advice team will spend 15–20 minutes (sometimes longer) discussing your needs in detail.
   

• They’ll then research the market and recommend policies tailored to your situation.
   

• You can set different amounts of life and critical illness cover, or even arrange a standalone policy if that’s what you need.

You can call our friendly and knowledgeable advisers on

01392 436193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

The event of divorce or separation can be complicated for all involved. There are plenty of decisions that need to be made, from dividing assets to arranging child support. Sometimes emotions can run high or in other cases, things may be resolved amicably. Either way, it’s a big change.

If you have a life insurance policy, it's worth understanding how your cover could be impacted by a divorce. While everything may seem perfect now, there's no guarantee that it will stay that way in the future.

In this guide, we’ll look at how your policy may be affected and what steps you may need to take.

What happens to life insurance in a divorce?

How your life insurance is affected will depend on the type of policy you have. In some cases, the cover can remain unchanged, but details such as beneficiaries or the purpose of the policy may no longer suit your circumstances. You might even decide that the policy needs to be reviewed or cancelled altogether.

Single life insurance policy

If you have a single life insurance policy in your own name, a divorce shouldn't impact your cover. The policy continues as normal, and you remain the sole policyholder. It’s up to you to decide whether changes are needed.

For example, you may wish to update your beneficiaries if your ex-spouse is currently listed. Alternatively, you might decide to redirect the benefit into a trust for your children.

Joint life insurance Policy

Joint policies are often taken out by couples who share commitments like a mortgage. During a divorce, these matters can become more complicated.

A first death policy, which pays out when the first insured person dies, may no longer be suitable after a divorce. The benefit could go to your ex-partner rather than your dependents.

Second death policies pay out only when both policyholders have passed away. This cover may not be practical if you’re no longer financially linked.

There are a few options if you have a joint policy:

• You could keep the policy
   
• You could ask the insurer if they are able to split the policy into 2 single policies
   
• You could ask the insurer to remove one person
   
• You could cancel the policy and take out something new - please understand that if you choose this option, you will need to submit a new application based on your new circumstances.

Can life insurance policies be part of a divorce settlement?

Whether your life insurance is treated as part of the marital assets depends on the type of cover you hold.

Term life insurance has no cash-in value. Because of this, they are generally not included in the division of assets.

Whole-of-life insurance can sometimes build cash value. In this case, it may be considered as part of the marital estate and therefore included in financial negotiations.

If you’re unsure how your policy might be treated, speak to your solicitor. They can explain whether your life insurance will be relevant to any settlement and how it should be handled.

Can an ex-spouse claim on your life insurance

As long as your ex-spouse is listed as a beneficiary on your policy, they may receive a payout in the event of your death. 

If you no longer wish your ex to benefit from your policy, you’ll need to update the beneficiary details with your insurer. You may also want to consider placing the policy in trust so you have greater control over who receives the payout. You may also want to update your last will and testament to help ensure you’re covered on all fronts.

If child maintenance is involved, the court may require you to keep your ex-partner as the beneficiary so your children are financially protected.

Should I update my beneficiaries after a divorce?

You can update your beneficiaries at any time, including during divorce proceedings. If you don’t have children, it often makes sense to remove your ex-spouse as a beneficiary and redirect the money to another family member.

However, if you have children, the situation can be more complex. Some people choose to keep their ex as a beneficiary so the funds can be used to support the children.

Leaving your ex-partner as the beneficiary isn’t the only option. You could:

• Redirect the payout directly to your children (if they’re adults).
   

• Place the policy in trust, so the money is managed on behalf of your children.
   

• Nominate another trusted family member to handle the benefit for them.

The key point is that if you don’t make changes, your insurer is legally obliged to pay whoever is currently named on the policy, even if that’s your ex.

Do I need to let my insurer know about my divorce?

As with any significant life change, it’s a good idea to let your insurer know. Depending on your new circumstances, your policy may need updating, or in some cases cancelling.

If you had a joint policy, you may need to arrange cover for yourself. Even with a single policy, it’s worth reviewing your details and beneficiaries to make sure everything still reflects your wishes.

Do I need a new life cover after a divorce?

Divorce can change your financial situation significantly, which means your protection needs may also shift. You may think you no longer need cover, but there are a few reasons why it might make sense to take out a new policy.

You may find that your financial responsibilities have changed. For example, if you move or take on a new mortgage, you might need cover that matches.

Living in a single-income household can also make it harder for your family to cope financially if something were to happen to you. On top of that, if you have a new partner or dependents, you may want to ensure your policy is set up to protect them instead.

The key thing is to make sure your policy matches any new responsibilities. For some people, this might mean replacing a joint policy with a new single one, while for others it could mean increasing or reducing their cover.

Where to get advice

Going through a divorce can be stressful enough without having to worry about the fine details of your life insurance. At Cavendish Online, we can help you review your options and make sure your policy reflects your new circumstances.

One of the most effective steps you can take after a divorce is to write your policy into trust. This gives you more control over who receives the payout and makes sure the money is passed directly to your chosen beneficiaries.

Whether you need to update an existing policy, or arrange a new one altogether, our team is here to guide you. You can apply online in just a few clicks or, if you’d prefer to talk things through, speak with one of our friendly advisers over the phone. We’ll help you find the right cover at the UK’s lowest premiums.

Life assurance is a type of cover that guarantees a payout whenever you pass away, rather than only within a set time frame like standard (term) life insurance. It's a long-term option for those who want certainty that their loved ones will receive financial support in the future.

Whether it’s helping your family cover everyday living costs or paying off debts, it could provide peace of mind that your loved ones will be looked after when you pass away. But why else do you need it? Here are some of the key benefits...

Guaranteed payout

Unlike term life insurance (which only pays out if you die during the term), life assurance guarantees to pay out a lump sum whenever you pass away. In doing so, the policy provides certainty that your loved ones will benefit.

All you have to do is continue to pay your monthly premiums in order to stay covered. If you fail to do this, your policy could be cancelled by the insurer.

Although term life insurance is often cheaper, the policy has an expiry date, so if you outlive the term, no payout is made. With life assurance, you don’t have to worry about this. No matter when you pass away, your family will still receive a lump sum.

Financial security for your loved ones

If you have loved ones who depend on you for financial support, your death could impact them significantly. Just like life insurance, life assurance could help your dependants cover:

• Household bills and utilities.
   

• Mortgage or rent payments.
   

• Child support and childcare costs.
   

• Education expenses, including school fees or university costs.
   

• Day-to-day living expenses such as food, clothing, and transport.

In some cases, the payout may also be used to help your partner reduce working hours to spend more time with your children. Or it could provide a financial cushion that allows your family to adjust to life without your income.

By easing these financial pressures, your family can focus on what really matters rather than worrying about money.

Funeral cover

Losing someone is never easy, and the last thing you’d want is for your family to worry about how they’re going to afford your funeral costs. Whether you wish to be buried or cremated, the costs can quickly add up for your loved ones.

This might not be a concern if you have a funeral plan, but death can happen at any stage. If you're younger, chances are you haven't given it much thought.

With life assurance, a payout could be used to help your family cover costs such as the coffin, service, burial or cremation fees, flowers, and the wake.

Inheritance Tax benefits

When you die, everything you own (including property, savings, investments, and possessions) is added together to form what’s known as your estate. Although life assurance payouts are not subject to income tax, they can form part of your estate and may therefore be liable for inheritance tax (IHT).

If the total value of your estate exceeds the IHT threshold (currently £325,000), anything above this limit could be taxed at 40%. This means your loved ones might receive less than you intended.

One of the major benefits of life assurance is that policies can often be written into trust. In doing so, the payout goes directly to your chosen beneficiaries rather than forming part of your estate, protecting it from IHT.

Not only can this help reduce the amount of tax payable, but it also provides your family with quicker access to funds, without having to go through probate.

Peace of mind

Knowing your family will be supported after you're gone can be a great weight off your shoulders. This peace of mind works both ways. For you, it means being able to plan for the future with certainty.

For your family, it means knowing they’ll be able to cope with the financial impact of losing you. Whether it’s keeping up with the mortgage, paying household bills, or covering everyday expenses, life assurance can make all the difference.

This kind of security is especially valuable if you have dependents, large financial commitments, or ongoing responsibilities. Without your support, loved ones may find it difficult to make ends meet, particularly with the rising cost of living.

Cons of life assurance
 

Higher premiums

Due to the guaranteed payout of life assurance, it tends to be more expensive than term life insurance which you could outlive. 

May not be cost effective

Due to the fact that a life assurance policy doesn’t expire and aims to pay out whenever you pass away, it’s sometimes possible to pay more in premiums than the policy is worth. Because of this, please speak to a life insurance expert to help ensure this is the right policy for you.

Who needs life assurance?

There are plenty of people who can benefit from life assurance, as it offers security and certainty that term life insurance doesn’t. While anyone can take out a policy, it’s particularly valuable for:

• Parents
   

• Young families
   

• People with lifelong financial responsibilities
   

• Those looking to leave a guaranteed inheritance
   

• Individuals with larger estates

All in all, life assurance is most useful for anyone looking for certainty. If you want to make sure your family or chosen beneficiaries receive financial support whenever you pass away, life assurance could be the right option.

Ready to apply for life assurance?

At Cavendish Online, we make it as simple as possible to get covered. You can choose the option that works best for you:

Apply online

Complete a quick form and get some of the UK’s lowest premiums in just a few clicks. You could be covered in as little as 30 minutes. Apply for a quote to get started.

Apply over the phone with guidance

If you know roughly what you’re looking for but would like a little support, our friendly guidance team can provide quotes and help you through the application process.

01392 241 850

Monday–Friday, 10am–6.30pm

Apply over the phone with advice

If you’d prefer tailored recommendations or have more complex needs (such as medical disclosures or high-value cover), our advised team can research the market and find the best policy for you.

01392 436 193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

Please note: The insurance products offered by Cavendish Online have no cash-in value at any time. If you stop paying your premiums, your cover will stop, your policy will end, and you will receive no benefit.

If you're looking for protection as a couple, you might find yourself toying between single and joint life insurance. But which is best?

While there's no wrong choice, when it comes to life cover, one option may be better suited to your situation than the other. You may even prefer to have a combination of both. So, it's only right to compare their strengths and weaknesses.

In this guide, we'll explain how both types of life insurance work as well as their pros and cons. We'll also look at how each could be right for you depending on your circumstances.

What is joint life insurance?

Joint life insurance covers two people under a single policy, typically couples. It provides a one-off payout if one of the policyholders dies during the term (after a successful claim is made). This payout usually goes to the surviving partner, offering financial support at a difficult time. Once the policy ends, it's up to the surviving partner to decide if they wish to take out another policy.

There are two specific types of joint policies. First death, which pays out after the first death in the couple. The other option is second death, where the policy pays out once both policyholders have passed away.

It's often ideal for:

• Couples with a joint mortgage or shared debts
   

• Married or cohabiting partners who want a simple, affordable way to protect each other
   

• People looking for a cost-effective alternative to two separate policies

You don't need to be married to have joint cover, making it suitable for couples of all types, even friends or business partners.

What is 'single' life insurance?

A single life insurance refers to a policy used to cover one person, paying out to their chosen beneficiaries once they pass away, after a successful claim. The policyholder is responsible for paying one set of premiums each month throughout the length of the policy.

There are two main types of single life insurance. Term life insurance is the most common. It covers the policyholder for a set amount of time, usually between 5-50 years. The policy will pay out so long as the policyholder dies within the term and the claim is successful. If they survive the term, the policy expires and no payout is made.

The other option is whole life insurance (also known as 'life assurance'. Unlike a term policy, it has no expiry date, lasting for as long as you live, so long as you continue to pay your premiums. Because of this, it is often more expensive but offers greater reassurance that your loved one will have the support they need if anything happens to you.

It's usually purchased by people who:

• Want to provide financial security for children, a spouse or dependants
   

• Have individual financial responsibilities, such as a personal mortgage or loan
   

• Prefer a personalised policy tailored to their own health, age, and needs
   

• Are not in a relationship, or want separate cover from their partner

The insurance products offered by Cavendish Online have no cash-in value at any time. If you stop paying your premiums, your cover will stop, your policy will end, and you will receive no benefit. For term life insurance, if you have not claimed before the end of your chosen policy term, the policy will end, and no benefit will be paid.

Factors to consider when choosing

Before you decide on whether to buy a joint or single life insurance policy, it's worth looking at your personal circumstances. For starters, which option is the most affordable in terms of protecting your partner or dependents? While the cheapest option isn't always the best, it can be appealing for couples on a budget.

Many couples choose to have joint life insurance to cover their long-term financial needs, such as a mortgage. If either partner dies, the other will have the money to cover future payments or the payout of the mortgage in full.

While there are specific types of cover for mortgages like decreasing term life insurance, it often makes sense to have a joint policy instead.

Another aspect couples tend to consider is what will happen if they separate or get divorced. In such instances, you may prefer to have separate policies so you don't have to cancel your policy later on. You may also consider future plans, such as having children, which can impact how much cover you need.

Overall, the best policy will be the one that complements your current and future circumstances as well as the needs of your loved ones.

Can you have both a joint and a single life insurance policy?

Many couples choose to have joint life insurance to cover their long-term financial needs, such as a mortgage. If either partner dies, the other will have the money to cover future payments or the payout of the mortgage in full.

While there are specific types of cover for mortgages like decreasing term life insurance, it often makes sense to have a joint policy instead.

Another aspect couples tend to consider is what will happen if they separate or get divorced. In such instances, you may prefer to have separate policies so you don't have to cancel your policy later on. You may also consider future plans, such as having children, which can impact how much cover you need.

Overall, the best policy will be the one that complements your current and future circumstances as well as the needs of your loved ones.

It's possible to have a single policy as well as a joint policy. Some people opt for this to increase their level of cover or to make sure their children or other dependants are protected separately from their partner.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to manage multiple premiums and policies. You'll also need to pay a premium as well as for the joint policy.

Can I transfer a joint life policy to a single policy?

In most cases, insurers won't allow you to directly transfer a joint life insurance policy into a single policy. If your circumstances change, such as after a separation or divorce, your insurer may be able to split the policy, but you would need to check with them directly. If splitting the policy isn’t possible, you may wish to cancel your plan and start a new one.

Doing so will involve going through the application process again, and depending on your age or health, premiums could be higher. If you still share responsibilities or have children, it may be worth keeping the policy for their sake.

Get advice on joint life insurance

Joint life insurance can be a simple and cost-effective way for couples to protect their shared future. Speak to one of our professional advisers today for expert guidance and tailored recommendations.

We’ll answer your questions, explain your options, and search the market on your behalf to help you secure the cover that’s right for you.

If you’re in good health and looking to buy life insurance, you can apply for a quote online. For other types of joint cover, or if you have a medical condition

While it's common knowledge that smoking can impact your premiums for life insurance, does that also impact vaping? 

According to research carried out in 2024 by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), the population who currently vape is 11%, the highest rate ever, equal to 5.6 million adults in Great Britain.

If you use e-cigarettes, you may be wondering how you could be impacted. In this guide we'll explain how vaping is assessed by insurers and how it can affect your potential insurance premiums.

Is vaping classed as smoking for life insurance?

Even though vaping is widely regarded as less harmful than smoking, most life insurance providers still treat it the same as tobacco use. In the eyes of many insurers, if you use e-cigarettes, whether they contain nicotine or not, you may still be classified as a smoker.

Nicotine-free vaping, however, could be considered less of a risk to insurers. Though this depends on the insurer and their guidelines.

Although many view vaping as a less harmful alternative to smoking, it is not without its risks. The NHS states that vaping has not been around for long enough to know the risks of long-term use.

Can I get life insurance if I vape?

You can still get life insurance cover regardless of whether you vape or smoke. However, you could face higher premiums, similar to those charged to cigarette smokers.

Insurers typically take a cautious approach when it comes to vaping. While e-cigarettes are often seen as a less harmful alternative to smoking, the long-term health effects are still uncertain, so many providers assess vapers in the same risk category as smokers.

How does vaping affect life insurance?

The biggest impact vaping has on your life insurance is cost. If you’re classed as a smoker due to vaping, your monthly premiums will be significantly higher than for someone who doesn’t use nicotine products.

In some cases, smokers and vapers could pay up to double, or more, for the same level of cover as a non-smoker.

When you apply, you may be asked questions like:

• Do you currently smoke or vape?
   

• Have you used any nicotine products (including patches, gum, or e-cigarettes) in the last 12 months?
   

• How often do you vape?
   

• Do your vapes contain nicotine?
   

• Have you ever smoked in the past?

Vaping may also affect your eligibility for certain policies. Some insurers offer exclusive low-risk policies that vapers may not qualify for. You may also be asked additional health questions or required to undergo a medical examination if you vape regularly.

If you stop vaping, you could apply to have your policy reviewed, but you’ll usually need to be vape-free for at least 12 months before being considered a non-smoker.

Do I have to disclose smoking or vaping to my insurer?

When you apply for life insurance, you’ll be asked whether you currently smoke or have used any nicotine products in the past 12 months, including e-cigarettes, vapes, patches, and gum.

It’s essential to answer all health and lifestyle questions honestly. Failing to disclose vaping could invalidate your policy, meaning your loved ones might not receive a payout if you pass away.

Can life insurance companies tell if you vape?

Most insurers won’t test you when you apply, but they could ask you to do a medical, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

In other cases, such as if you pass away from a smoking-related illness, the insurer may investigate your medical history. If it turns out you weren’t honest about your smoking status, they may not pay out. You should also inform your insurer if you start vaping after taking out a policy.

To keep your cover valid and protect your loved ones, it’s always best to be honest from the start.

Will quitting vaping lower my life insurance premiums?

Even if you are a smoker, it's still possible to lower your premiums. If you’ve quit vaping for at least 12 months and no longer use nicotine products, some insurers will consider you a non-smoker. As a result, they may choose to lower your monthly premium.

You may need to apply for a new policy or request a reassessment of your existing one, and some providers may require proof that you’ve remained vape-free.

Ready to get life insurance? We're here to help

Finding life insurance as a smoker or vaper doesn’t have to be stressful. At Cavendish Online, our expert life insurance advisers are on hand to guide you through the process, from understanding your needs to finding the right cover at a price that works for you.

Whether you’ve had medical conditions in the past, work in a risky job, or just want expert advice to help you choose the right policy, we’ve got you covered.

• Get personalised, expert advice
   

• Compare affordable options from trusted insurers
   

• Apply with confidence (many policies arranged in under 30 minutes)
   

• Ongoing support throughout your application

We’ll ask a few questions about your health, lifestyle, and what you’re looking for. Then we’ll search the market to recommend a policy that suits your circumstances. Speak to an adviser today to get started.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has been over for some time, it's still possible to catch the illness, and variants do exist. For some, the effects of the virus linger far beyond the initial infection. Known as long COVID, this condition has affected the lives and health of millions across the UK.

If you're one of many dealing with long COVID, you may be wondering if you can still get life insurance. In this guide, we’ll explore how insurers view long COVID, what questions you might be asked, and what steps you can take to get covered.

What is Long COVID?

Long COVID (also known as Post-Covid Syndrome) is a new condition where people continue to show symptoms of COVID-19, even when they are no longer infected.

With COVID-19, most people tend to feel better after a few days or weeks after the initial infection and tend to make a full recovery within 12 weeks. However, for people suffering from long COVID, symptoms can last months, even years.

The main symptoms can include:

• Fatigue
   

• Loss of smell (even after COVID-19)
   

• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
   

• Shortness of breath
   

• Chest pain or tightness
   

• Muscle aches
   

• Sleep disturbances
   

• Anxiety or depression

According to a 2024 study by the Office for National Statistics, an estimated 3.3% (around 2 million people) living in private households in England and Scotland were experiencing self-reported long COVID, defined as symptoms lasting more than four weeks after a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection.

Because long COVID is a relatively new condition, research is still ongoing on its long-term effects and how best to manage it. Because of this, life insurance providers may not have set procedures for how they assess it.

Is long COVID a recognised medical condition?

Long COVID is officially recognised by the NHS and other leading health organisations around the world, including the World Health Organization (WHO).

Some insurers may treat it as a pre-existing medical condition, particularly if symptoms are ongoing or if your daily life is significantly impacted.

How does long COVID impact life insurance?

If you have/had long COVID, it could potentially affect your premiums or eligibility. Insurers tend to assess applicants based on their age and health, which could mean your premiums may be higher than usual.

As long as your condition is well managed, most insurers may still offer you cover, albeit sometimes with adjusted terms. As always, you should declare any medical conditions you may have to the insurer to avoid complications or denials later.

It's also worth noting that the impact of long COVID may vary depending on the type of life insurance policy you're applying for.

Since policies and risk assessments differ between insurers, it’s a good idea to speak with one of our life insurance advisers. They can guide you toward a suitable policy based on our circumstances

What questions may I be asked when applying for cover?

As with any type of medical condition, insurance companies will want to understand how it impacts your overall health.

They will likely ask for details, such as:

• When you were diagnosed with long COVID
   

• The symptoms you experience and their severity
   

• How long have you experienced symptoms
   

• Medications or treatments you've received
   

• How it impacts your ability to work

These approaches can vary between providers, and some are beginning to adapt their underwriting policies as more data becomes available.

Can I get critical illness cover with long COVID?

Critical illness cover differs from life insurance in a few ways. Instead of covering you for death, it pays out a cash lump sum if you are diagnosed with a medical condition covered by the insurer. This can include heart attack, stroke, and certain types of cancer.

Similar to life insurance, the insurer will want to know about your condition and its severity. They will also want to know if your condition is linked to any other health issues, such as heart problems. Your application could be accepted at a standard rate, or in other cases, you could pay a higher premium.

Can I get income protection with long COVID?

Unlike the other types of cover mentioned, income protection covers you in the event you are unable to work due to health issues. It pays out a regular income while you're off work, helping to cover key expenses such as rent, bills, or mortgage payments.

Getting income protection with long COVID could be more challenging as the condition may impact your ability to work, especially with symptoms like fatigue. In such cases, waiting periods may apply, or there may be exclusions for any related conditions.

What if I’m declined for life insurance due to long COVID?

In the event your application is denied due to long COVID, there are alternative life insurance options available.

Policies like guaranteed life insurance offer acceptance regardless of any health issues you may have. While it usually offers lower levels of cover and may come with a waiting period, it can still provide valuable peace of mind.

Another option is to consider waiting and reapplying. If your symptoms improve or you've been symptom-free for a number of months, you may be in a better position to reapply.

Unsure about your options? We’re here to help

We understand that searching for life insurance cover can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with a health condition like long COVID.

At Cavendish Online, we shop around so you don’t have to. We compare policies from a wide range of leading insurers to help you find the best cover for your individual circumstances, without charging over the odds.

Whether you’re looking for life insurance, critical illness cover, or income protection, we’re committed to offering transparent, low-cost services with minimal fees, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

If you’re ready to explore your options, it’s quick and easy to get a life insurance quote. Simply enter a few details into our website, and we’ll show you a range of tailored quotes, so you can choose a policy that works best for you.

Prefer to talk to someone?

Not sure what cover you need? Our friendly, expert advisers are here to help. If you’ve been declined before, have any questions, or just want to make sure your policy still suits your needs, we’re only a phone call away.

Get in touch today or request a callback, and we’ll help you find the right protection with confidence.

If you have been declined for life insurance or are worried you could be, there are still ways to get covered. First of all, you shouldn't be disheartened if your application is denied. Different insurers have their own criteria for how they determine risks.

Before you reapply it's a good idea to understand why you were declined for cover in the first place. In some cases, you may only need to make a few lifestyle adjustments to be accepted. Or, you could be better suited to another type of life insurance altogether.

In this guide, we'll look at some of the common reasons people are declined for life insurance and what you may be able to do about it.

Why would you be refused life insurance?

There are lots of reasons why an insurer may deny you cover. Two of the main factors insurers look at when assessing your risk is your age and health. That isn't to say if you are older you won't be able to get cover. It also depends on whether you have any pre-existing conditions that could increase the risk of death.

For example, a 35-year-old cancer survivor could be seen as a higher risk compared to a 50-year-old in general good health, with no medical conditions.

When you apply for life insurance, you'll typically be asked a series of health and lifestyle questions. The insurer uses this information to assess the likelihood of a claim being made during the term of the policy. If they feel the risk is too high, or if key details are missing or unclear, they may decline your application.

Reasons you may be declined for life insurance​

Depending on the insurer’s underwriting criteria, there are several factors that could increase the likelihood of your life insurance application being declined. Common reasons include:

• Your age (Many providers have age ranges)
   

• Pre-existing medical conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes
   

• Recent or severe health issues, including hospitalisation or surgery
   

• Dangerous occupations, such as working at height, offshore, or with hazardous materials
   

• Dangerous hobbies, like skydiving, scuba diving, or motor racing
   

• Substance or alcohol misuse
   

• Family medical history, such as hereditary conditions
   

• Undisclosed or incomplete medical information on your application
   

• Obesity or other health risks, like high blood pressure or cholesterol

You may also be refused cover due to a previous refusal and haven't addressed the reasons for it. However, this isn’t always permanent. If time has passed and your health or lifestyle has improved, you may now be eligible for cover.

For example, if you previously had a heart attack but your condition is now well-managed, with no further complications, some insurers may be open to offering cover (possibly with adjusted terms or a higher premium).

Do I need to be honest about the information I give?

It can be tempting to keep certain aspects of your health from your insurer, especially if it could mean paying more for cover. However, it's crucial to be completely honest about the information you provide.

Withholding information, even unintentionally, can have serious consequences. Your policy could be cancelled, or worse, your loved ones might be denied a payout if you pass away.

For example, if you're a smoker but claim to be a non-smoker on your application, your insurer could void the policy if your death is related to smoking. Insurers have the right to request your medical records from your GP, where evidence of smoking or undeclared medical conditions could be found.

Be upfront from the start so your family stays protected, and there are no nasty surprises later on.

How to get life insurance if you've been denied

Even if your application is rejected, it doesn't mean you can't get cover altogether. There are a number of ways you can improve your chances of being accepted for cover. It could even mean looking at alternative policies that are more suited to your circumstances.

1. Review why you were denied

Before you start looking at alternative insurers, you need to understand the reasoning behind your denial for life insurance. If you can, go over the application and try to remember what answers you gave for each question.

If you have any medical conditions or risky behaviours, this may have been the reason for being denied cover.

Likewise, if you work in a dangerous occupation (i.e. construction, police officer, firefighter, offshore work, you could consider getting life insurance through your employer if you haven't done so already.

2. Improve your health and lifestyle

If your rejection was due to health-related concerns, taking steps to improve your overall health can help. Start by consulting with your GP provider to discuss potential lifestyle changes or treatments that could improve your situation.

This might mean following a diet and exercise plan, managing any chronic conditions more effectively, or stopping habits such as smoking.

Once you've noticed improvements, it might be worth revisiting the idea of applying for life insurance. If you explain to the insurer how your condition is managed they may

3. Consider an appeal

If your application has been rejected it's worth asking the insurer for details. It may be the case that you ticked the wrong box, or left out key information. It's also possible that the insurer may have made an error on your application in which case you could have grounds for an appeal.

4. Explore alternative life insurance policies

If you were denied acceptance for policies like whole life insurance, there are other types of policies you can apply for.

Guaranteed life insurance is a policy designed for people who may struggle to get accepted for traditional cover. it works similarly to a whole-of-life policy, where the policy lasts until your death, with no expiry date.

Unlike standard policies, you won't need to answer any medical questions or undergo a medical exam when you apply for cover. However, you may be limited to how much cover you can take out and the premiums are usually higher.

If you're aged 50 or over, you may be suited to over 50s life insurance. This policy guarantees acceptance regardless of health. It usually includes a waiting period (e.g. two years) before full cover begins, but it's ideal for those who are older or have health issues.

Will l have an initial exclusion period if I'm later accepted?

If you've previously been denied life insurance but are later accepted, you may face an initial exclusion period. This is a set time at the start of your policy during which certain claims may not be paid, such as illness or suicide or the condition that led to your original denial.

If death occurs during this time from an excluded cause, the policy might only refund premiums rather than pay out the full sum.

Struggling to get life insurance? Speak to the experts

Whether your application was declined due to  health problems, lifestyle factors, or something else entirely, getting the right support can make all the difference.

At Cavendish Online, we’re here to help you find the most suitable and affordable policy for no medical life insurance. Our team of friendly, professional advisers work on a whole-of-market basis, meaning we search across a wide range of insurers rather than just one provider.

Our advisers are here to answer your questions, explain your options clearly, and support you through every step of the process. Call us today to speak to an expert and take the next step toward protecting your family’s future.

Although the proceeds from a life insurance policy are typically tax free, you may have to pay inheritance tax (IHT). If liable, your family could lose part of the payout, which could limit the financial support you intended for them.

In this guide, we'll explain how inheritance works and what you can do to legally bypass or minimise tax on life insurance proceeds.

What is inheritance tax?

Inheritance tax is a tax paid on the value of a person’s estate when they die. In the UK, estates valued above £325,000 (the nil-rate band) are taxed at a rate of 40% on the amount above this threshold.

Your estate is the total value of all your assets, including properties, savings, investments, and any other possessions you have at the time of your passing. It can also include a life insurance payout.

In simple terms, only the value of your estate that exceeds the threshold will be taxed. So for example, if the total value of your estate is £350,000, then only £25,000 will be subject to the 40% tax rate.

When is life insurance subject to inheritance tax?

If a life insurance policy is part of your estate, it can push the overall value above the inheritance tax threshold, thereby increasing the taxable amount.

Life insurance is included in your estate for Inheritance Tax purposes if:

• The policy is in your name (i.e. you are the legal owner).

• The payout is made directly to your estate or not placed into trust.

This means your loved ones may receive a reduced amount if your estate exceeds the inheritance tax threshold.

Certain types of policies, such as life assurance, are particularly relevant when it comes to estate planning. As the policy pays out regardless of when you die, it could hold potential implications for inheritance tax if not structured properly.

How to reduce your inheritance tax liability

Fortunately, there are strategic steps you can take to help ensure that your life insurance isn't subject to inheritance tax, allowing your beneficiaries to receive the full benefit of your policy.

1. Put your life insurance in trust

This is one of the most effective ways to bypass IHT on life insurance. Writing your policy 'in trust' means the policy is not part of your estate. The proceeds of the policy will go directly to your chosen beneficiaries, untaxed. It also allows faster access to funds, without going through the probate process.

2. Limit the amount of cover you have

If you know your estate is likely to be close to or exceed the inheritance tax threshold, you could limit the amount of life insurance cover you take out. By doing this, you help ensure that the proceeds will not increase your estate's value, potentially pushing it over the threshold and subjecting it to IHT.

While this may not seem like an ideal option, it might make sense if you have other substantial assets that will be passed down. To learn more about working out your cover needs, see: How much life insurance do I need?

3. Use your annual gift exemption

You can give away up to £3,000 each tax year without it being added to your estate for IHT purposes. If unused, this annual exemption can be carried forward for one year.

Larger gifts may also be exempt if you live for at least seven years after making them. This could be a good option if you want to lower the value of your estate.

4. Make regular gifts out of surplus income

You can make regular payments from your surplus income, such as funding a life insurance policy in trust, without them counting towards your estate. These must be truly regular and not affect your standard of living.

5. Utilise the seven-year rule in Inheritance Tax

If you give away something like a life insurance policy (or the money used to pay for it), and you live for at least seven years after making the gift, it will usually be exempt from Inheritance Tax.

However, if you die within seven years, the gift may still count towards your estate and could be taxed. In this case, taper relief (the closer you get to surviving the full seven years, the less tax your beneficiaries may have to pay) might reduce the amount of tax owed.

Do joint life policies face inheritance tax?

This will often depend on the type of joint life insurance you own and how it's arranged.

There are two main types of joint life cover:

• First death: The policy pays out when the first policyholder dies. The payout usually goes to the surviving policyholder. If you are married or in a civil partnership, the payment is typically exempt from IHT due to the spouse exemption. However, if you are not married or in a civil partnership, the payout may be considered part of your estate and could be subject to IHT.
   

• Second death: The policy pays out only after both policyholders have died. In this case, the payout forms part of the second person’s estate and may be subject to IHT. This is especially relevant if the total value of the estate exceeds the inheritance tax threshold.

To help mitigate inheritance tax, you can choose to place the policy in trust. That way, the payout does not form part of your estate and can be passed directly to beneficiaries, usually without IHT.

Where to get advice on life insurance and IHT?

When buying life insurance, we understand that you want to leave as much as possible to support family and/or loved ones. That's where Cavendish Online can truly make a difference.

Our dedicated advisory team is committed to offering professional advice on a wide range of protection products, from life insurance to income protection and critical illness insurance.

We understand that everyone's needs are unique, and we're here to help you make informed decisions with confidence. We can discuss how you can manage your policy to bypass any inheritance tax implications, such as placing your policy into trust or selecting the right type of life insurance for your needs. Speak to an adviser to get started.

There are plenty of factors that can affect your ability to get life insurance as well as the cost. Your age and health are two of the main aspects insurers look for when determining your risk, however, your occupation is another that can be considered.

In this guide, we'll explain how your job can impact your life insurance cover, as well as the types of jobs insurers tend to see as high-risk.

Will I be asked about my job when I apply for life insurance?

When you apply for life insurance, you will be asked some basic health and lifestyle questions such as:

• What is your age?

• What is your height and weight?

• Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions?

• What is your family medical history like?

• Do you smoke, drink alcohol, or use/have used recreational drugs?

• Do you participate in any dangerous sport or activity?

Those are some of the standard questions you might expect. In addition, you could also be asked about your occupation. This is because certain professions carry more risk than others. You may be asked:

• Do you have a high-risk occupation?

• Do you work at great heights?

• Do you work offshore?

• Are you required to travel frequently for work, particularly to high-risk areas?

• Are you currently serving in the armed forces?

These questions help insurers understand the potential risks associated with your job so they can assess your application accurately.

How your job can affect your life insurance policy

People in low-risk professions, such as office employees, are often unaffected when it comes to life insurance. As these jobs generally involve minimal physical danger, insurers consider them lower risk. As a result, you could receive more favourable premiums and face fewer restrictions.

But those who work in high-risk professions can face more challenges and potentially higher life insurance premiums. There may also be a limit on the amount of cover you can take out, or in certain cases, you could even be denied cover.

However, just because you have a low-risk profession doesn't mean your premiums will be cheaper. It also depends on other factors such as your overall health, age, and lifestyle habits.

How do insurers assess occupational risk?

Risk is a core part of how protection products like life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection work. When you apply, insurers need to understand how likely it is they’ll have to pay out a claim, and your job plays a role in that.

If your occupation involves any aspect of danger, insurers may see you as a higher risk.

That said, it's not just about danger, it’s about how frequently you’re exposed to it. What insurers also look at is how severe the consequences might be if something goes wrong. For instance:

• Risk of falls, injury, or fatality on the job

• Exposure to dangerous environments or materials

• Unpredictable conditions, such as combat zones or emergency scenes

• High likelihood of accidents, particularly on the road or in manual labour

Even if your job feels routine to you, if it involves regular exposure to any of these risks, insurers are likely to flag it as hazardous. They may also refer to industry data and claims history to understand how risky your job has been for others in similar roles.

What is considered a hazardous occupation?

A hazardous occupation refers to jobs with a higher risk of injury or death due to the nature of the work, the environment’s performed in, or the tools and equipment used.

While life insurance is still available for people in high-risk jobs, these occupations are more likely to result in:

• Higher premiums

• Policy exclusions

• Or in some cases, needing to go through a specialist insurer

Common examples of hazardous occupations include:

• Construction workers – especially those working at height or with heavy machinery

• Firefighters and emergency services

• Armed forces personnel

• Offshore oil and gas workers

• Pilots and aviation crew

• Police officers and security personnel

• Miners and tunnellers

• Commercial divers

• Professional drivers with high mileage or dangerous routes

• People working with explosives or toxic substances

Should I disclose my job when applying for life insurance?

It may be tempting to withhold information about your job in order to get lower premiums, but you should always be 100% honest during the application process. Even if it seems minor or unrelated, insurers use this information to assess your risk and determine your premiums.

Failing to disclose your occupation, or giving incomplete information, could lead to your policy being invalidated. That means if a claim is made in the future, it could be reduced or denied altogether.

Does a dangerous job mean I can’t get life insurance?

Having a dangerous job doesn’t mean you’ll be refused life insurance, but it may:

• Increase your monthly premiums

• Lead to certain exclusions (e.g. no payout if death occurs while carrying out dangerous duties)

• Limit the type of cover you can get, such as guaranteed acceptance life insurance

• Require you to go through a specialist provider who deals with high-risk occupations

Plenty of insurers offer cover for people in high-risk jobs, it's just about finding the right policy.

What if I change jobs after getting life insurance?

In most cases, you don’t need to tell your insurer if you change jobs after taking out a policy. Though you should if you intend to move to a high-risk job in the future, such as joining the military.

Life insurance is based on your risk profile at the time you apply (underwriting), so unless you're applying for new or additional cover, your job change won’t affect your existing policy.

However, if you move into a significantly riskier profession, it’s a good idea to review your cover to make sure it still meets your needs. Learn more about how changing jobs can impact your life insurance.

Get expert advice for life insurance

If your job involves danger, you might think getting life insurance is going to be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.

At Cavendish Online, we offer a simple way to apply for life insurance with expert guidance, especially if you have a hazardous occupation or a medical history that might affect your cover. Our friendly advisers can help you find the right policy for your needs and budget, without any pressure.

We work with some of the UK’s leading insurers to offer quality cover at some of the lowest prices available. It’s all about helping you make an informed decision, quickly and confidently.

Getting covered can take as little as 30 minutes once we’ve got a few details from you, like your health, lifestyle, and the type of work you do. To get started, call us on

01392 436 193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

Whether you're in a long-term relationship or choose not to be married or in a civil partnership, you can still benefit from life insurance. Many couples today share homes, raise children, and build financial lives together without legal ties like marriage.

However, without the legal protections that married couples automatically receive, it's crucial to be intentional about financial planning. In this guide, we'll answer some of the key questions you may have about getting cover if you are unmarried.

Do I need to be married to get life insurance?

You don’t need to be married or in a civil partnership to take out life insurance. There’s no legal requirement linking your relationship status to whether you can get cover.

If you're in a relationship, living together, or simply want to make sure someone you care about is financially protected, life insurance can still be a smart move.

While being married does give couples certain automatic legal and financial rights, being unmarried doesn’t mean you're left unprotected. It can help ease the financial burden if one of you were to pass away. Or it can provide ongoing financial support if you rely on each other's income.

Who does my life insurance go to if I'm not married?

When setting up a life insurance policy, you'll be asked to choose a beneficiary. This is someone who receives the proceeds from your policy. Most people tend to select their spouse, though you have complete freedom to name anyone as your beneficiary. It could be a partner, children, family member, or even a friend.

In the event of your death, the payout will go to whoever you have designated as your beneficiary. Therefore, you should make sure your choice aligns with your current wishes and financial goals.

What types of cover are suitable for unmarried couples

The same policies are available to unmarried couples as those available to married couples. The main types of cover include:

Term life insurance

Term life insurance covers you for a specified period, generally anywhere between 5-50 years. It’s often the most affordable option and could be a good choice if you want protection during a financially demanding period, like while paying off a mortgage or raising children.

For the policy to pay out, you must pass away within the term of the policy. If you outlive the term, the policy expires, and no payout will be made.

Whole life insurance

Unlike term, whole life insurance provides cover for your entire life, as long as premiums are paid. While it typically costs more, it offers the benefit of having a guaranteed payout, regardless of when you pass away.

Joint life insurance

Another option for couples is joint life insurance, which provides cover for two people under a single policy. This could be an ideal option for couples who share costs such as a mortgage or other significant expenses. It can even be used by business partners who might want to cover finances in case one partner passes away. age.

Joint policies pay out in two ways:

• First death: the payout is made after the first death in the couple. After this the policy ceases and the surviving policyholder will need to take out another policy if they wish to do so.
   

• Second death: the policy pays out once both policyholders have passed away. The payout will then go to the beneficiary of your choosing, such as their children.

Is it cheaper to get life insurance as a couple?

One of the key benefits of joint life cover is that it can potentially be cheaper than taking out single policies. With a joint policy, you’re both covered under one plan, which usually means lower premiums compared to buying two separate policies.

If you choose to take out single life policies, you may end up paying more overall, as each policy is assessed individually based on your health, age, and lifestyle. There's also the added admin of managing two separate policies, along with two sets of premiums to pay.

While joint policies can be more cost-effective, you need to consider your individual needs and what works best for your situation, especially if one of you has a pre-existing medical condition.

What happens if I split up with my partner?

It’s not a nice thought, but it’s always wise to have some kind of contingency plan in place in case your relationship ends.

If you have a single life insurance policy in your name, things are fairly straightforward. You can usually update your beneficiary or make other changes to the policy without needing your partner’s consent.

However, things can get a bit more complicated with a joint life insurance policy. Since both of you are covered under one plan, the policy is typically in both names, meaning you’ll both need to agree on any changes or cancellations. If you split up, you may have limited options:

• Cancelling the policy might be the only route, which could leave both of you without cover.
   

• Some insurers don’t allow you to ‘split’ a joint policy into two separate ones.
   

• If you keep the policy going, you’ll still be financially linked to your ex-partner, which may not be ideal.

Before taking out joint cover, it’s a good idea to check the policy terms and ask your insurer about what would happen in the event of a breakup. In some cases, it may make more sense for each of you to hold your own policy from the start, just in case.

How much cover will I need?

We all have different reasons for taking out life insurance, so the amount of cover you need will depend on your personal circumstances. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, it really comes down to what you want the policy to protect.

For example, you might want enough cover to:

• Pay off a mortgage or shared debts
   

• Replace lost income to help your partner maintain their lifestyle
   

• Cover childcare or education costs if you have children
   

• Handle funeral expenses and other final costs
   

• Leave a financial gift or provide long-term security for your loved one

A good starting point is to think about what your partner or family would need to stay financially stable if you weren’t around.

Many people use a multiple of their annual income, such as 10 times the amount. But it’s worth reviewing your finances in detail, including any existing savings, benefits from your employer, or other assets.

Where to get advice

If you're thinking about life insurance but aren’t sure where to begin, there are a few simple ways to get started, depending on how much help you’d like.

If you already know what you need and feel confident applying on your own, you can get a quote and apply online, with cover arranged in as little as 30 minutes.

For those who would prefer a bit of help along the way, you can speak to one of our life insurance advisers who will guide you through your options and help you make an informed decision.

And if you have a medical condition, a hazardous job, or would just rather have tailored advice, we can recommend the most suitable and affordable policy based on your circumstances.

Whatever your situation, Cavendish Online makes it easy to find the right cover, with clear information, support when you need it, and some of the most competitive prices.

If you have an operation coming up, it's only natural to be concerned about the “what-ifs”. Even though there's often very little that can go wrong, it can make anyone think twice about their financial security and what would happen to their loved ones if the worst were to happen.

The good news is that it's possible to get life insurance before surgery, but it often depends on a few factors. In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know if you’re considering life insurance both before and after surgery.

Do I need to tell my insurer that I'm having surgery?

First and foremost, it's essential that you disclose any upcoming procedures as well as your medical history. If you don’t inform them, it could cause potential problems later, like cancelling your life insurance policy or not paying out benefits if you die.

For example, if you died during surgery but did not inform your insurer beforehand, they may dispute or even deny the claim. As a result, your family and/or loved ones could be left without financial support.

What kind of information will insurers ask for?

Insurers need to know about any surgeries to help them assess how much risk is involved and whether they can offer you cover now or need to wait until after your operation.

Some of the common areas they ask may include:

• The type of surgery – Is it routine (like gallbladder removal or a knee replacement), or more serious (such as heart or brain surgery)?
   

• Why are you having the operation – Is it to diagnose something, correct a condition, or treat an illness?
   

• Pre-existing medical conditions – If the surgery is related to a pre-existing condition (e.g., cancer, heart disease, or a chronic illness), insurers will want to know how well it’s being managed.
   

• When the surgery is planned – If it’s coming up soon, they may delay the decision until after the procedure and recovery.
   

• What your recovery is expected to look like – Is a full recovery likely? Can complications be expected  or will further treatment be needed?

In some cases, insurers might also ask for a medical exam or report from your GP or consultant to get more details before making a decision. The more information you can provide upfront, the smoother the process is likely to be.

Will I be denied life insurance because of an upcoming surgery?

A pending surgery doesn’t mean you can’t get life insurance. It just means the insurer needs more certainty before they can offer the right level of cover.

In many cases, insurers will simply delay making a decision until after your operation and recovery, rather than declining you outright.

For example, if you’re waiting for test results or your surgery is linked to a serious condition like cancer or heart disease, the insurer may want to wait until there’s a clearer picture of your health. On the other hand, if the operation is minor, you may still be able to get cover right away.

Does life Insurance cover death during surgery?

Life insurance typically covers death during surgery as long as your policy is active and you’ve answered all health questions honestly when you applied. This includes situations where death is caused by complications during the operation itself or shortly afterwards, such as reactions to anaesthesia, unexpected bleeding, or other medical issues.

It will also depend on the type of policy you have, like term life insurance, which pays out if you die within the agreed term. Or if you have whole life insurance, the policy will pay out regardless of when you die, so long as your premiums are paid.

Should I wait until after surgery to apply?

In some cases, applying before surgery makes sense, especially if you want to have cover in place right away to protect your family, mortgage, or other financial commitments.

But in other situations, it might be better to wait until after the operation, particularly if the procedure is considered high-risk or linked to a serious medical condition.

That said, some people choose to apply now to get some form of cover in place, knowing they can review or update it once they’ve recovered. If you’re unsure, speaking with a life insurance adviser can help you decide the best route based on your timeline and the type of procedure you're having.

Can I get life insurance after surgery?

You can usually get life insurance even after having surgery. In some cases, it could actually improve your chances of getting cover with better terms.

Once your operation is complete and you’ve had time to recover, insurers have a much clearer picture of your health. They’ll look at factors like:

• The success of the surgery
   

• Your recovery time
   

• Any ongoing treatment or complications
   

• Follow-up test results or prognosis

Suppose everything went smoothly and your condition is now well-managed (or even resolved). In that case, you might find that insurers are more willing to offer standard terms, possibly even at lower premiums than before.

However, if the surgery was related to a more serious or long-term health condition, you may still face higher premiums or some exclusions. Nethertheless, getting life cover is still possible.

It’s a good idea to wait until you’ve had a follow-up with your consultant or GP so you can share accurate medical notes with the insurer.

When is the best time to apply for cover?

The best time to apply for life insurance depends on your individual circumstances, but in general, sooner is better.

If your surgery is minor and your health is otherwise stable, applying before your operation could be a smart choice. It gives you peace of mind knowing your loved ones are protected.

Here’s a simple way to look at it:

• If your surgery is routine: Apply now, especially if time is on your side.
   

• If your surgery is complex: Wait until recovery or test results are in, unless you need urgent cover.

Certain types of policies, like whole life insurance and level term life insurance, have fixed premiums so your premiums will stay the same throughout the policy.

How will surgery affect other types of cover?

Surgery has a similar impact on other types of protection, like critical illness cover or income protection, as it does with life insurance.

Critical illness

Critical illness insurance pays out a lump sum if you're diagnosed with a serious medical condition listed in the policy (like cancer, heart attack, or stroke).

If your surgery is related to a condition that could lead to a critical illness claim, your insurer may delay making a decision until after your operation or test results.

In some cases, they might still offer a policy, but with exclusions for the condition being treated.

Income protection

Income protection insurance replaces part of your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury. If you're about to have surgery and expect time off work, your insurance provider may wait until you've recovered before offering cover. Or they might add a temporary exclusion for anything related to your surgery.

Once you’ve made a full recovery and your condition is stable, it’s often possible to apply or update your cover with more favourable terms.

Where to get advice

If you’ve got an operation coming up, or have recently had one, you may be unsure about your options as well as what type of cover you need. That’s where we come in.

At Cavendish Online, we specialise in helping people with medical conditions or complex circumstances find the right life insurance policy. Whether you're looking for cover before your procedure or wondering if it’s better to wait, we’ll help guide you to the most suitable and affordable policy.

We can provide:

• Expert, personalised advice
   

• Products from top UK insurers
   

• Transparent fees and no pressure

We don't just stop at providing quotes; we take into account your full medical history and potential future needs to ensure you're adequately protected. Call us today to speak to one of our friendly advisers. 

01392 436193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

Being pregnant is an exciting and busy time, but it also comes with its fair share of worries. You’re probably thinking about how to give your growing family the best start in life, including financial security.

If you’re wondering whether you can get life insurance while pregnant or how it might work, you’re not alone. Here’s everything you need to know to make the right decision for your family.

Can I apply for life insurance while pregnant?

Even when you're pregnant, you can still apply for life insurance just as you would at any other time. You'll still be asked the same questions you normally would.

An insurer can't deny you for cover based on being pregnant alone. Instead, they will look at potential risks such as your age, health, smoker status and any underlying health conditions you may have.

Why take out life insurance?

Bringing a child into the world can suddenly spark changes in many aspects of your life, including your financial responsibilities. A family life insurance plan could provide a whole host of benefits for your family and/or loved ones, like:

• Helping to provide financial security for your family
   

• Help covering living expenses and essential needs
   

• Help paying off outstanding debts, such as mortgages, loans, or credit card debt
   

• Help supporting your children’s education costs
   

• Help covering your funeral costs
   

• Leaving a legacy for your family
   

• Giving peace of mind

The last thing any parent wants is to leave their children without the necessary support should something happen to them unexpectedly. Buying life insurance may provide support for your children after you're gone, and plan for the future ahead.

Do I need to tell my insurer that I'm pregnant?

If you already own life insurance you are not obligated to inform your insurer of your pregnancy.

However, if you're pregnant when applying, you must tell them along with any medical conditions you have. Failing to disclose health information can lead to complications, such as claims being denied later on or your policy being deemed void.

When you're pregnant, the insurer might consider other factors as part of their assessment, such as:

• Your overall health during the pregnancy

• Any pregnancy-related complications

• Your pre-existing medical conditions

Does pregnancy affect life insurance premiums?

If you already have life cover, your premiums won't be affected if you become pregnant. However, if you're applying whilst pregnant, your potential premiums may be affected if you have certain risk factors.

For example, your insurer may charge higher premiums if you suffer from complications due to being pregnant, such as:

• High blood pressure
   

• Gestational diabetes
   

• Anaemia

Each of these factors can indicate a higher risk to insurers, which may result in increased premiums or adjusted policy terms. On the positive side, many healthy pregnancies do not significantly impact premiums, especially if there are no complications.

If you smoked or used any other nicotine products within 12 months of applying, you could also pay more for premiums. Even if you're pregnant you'll still be classified as a smoker for underwriting purposes.

Generally, you should use information such as your weight, smoker status, alcohol consumption, and occupation pre-pregnancy. In most cases, your insurer will want to know your overall health and lifestyle habits before your pregnancy as they are only temporary.

Do I need to update my life insurance when I have a baby?

It's best to review your life insurance policy after any life-changing events including pregnancy. You may decide that you want to have more cover as your responsibilities as a parent grow.

If you have a term life insurance, you may wish to extend the policy term to provide extra security for your children. Or you may wish to switch to a whole life policy which can provide lifelong protection.

You can also add your child - before or after their birth - as a beneficiary. This means they'll be entitled to receive financial support in the event of your passing.

Can I also get critical illness cover if I'm pregnant?

Critical illness cover can be a useful add-on to your life policy paying out if you suddenly suffer from a serious illness or condition. If you own cover prior to a pregnancy, your cover won't be affected, it could also cover pregnancy complications.

However, if you're pregnant at the time you apply, some insurers may put your application on hold until you have given birth. In the insurers eyes, pregnancy is considered a significant factor that could affect your health, which in turn influences the risk assessment.

Where to get advice

If you're unsure how pregnancy may affect your current cover or ability to take out life insurance Cavendish Online can help. Our team of friendly advisers can provide personalised guidance tailored to your situation.

We understand that discussing finances during such a significant time can feel overwhelming, so our advisers are here to simplify the process for you.

Whether it's explaining your options for new life insurance, reviewing existing policies, or suggesting additional cover, our priority is to ensure you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way.

To speak to our advised team, please call

01392 436193

(Monday to Friday, 9am - 5.30pm)

If you're looking to buy life insurance, you may have also come across the term 'life assurance'. So are they similar to each other or not? Well, yes and no. Read on to learn what similarities they share as well as the key differences that set these policies apart.

What is life insurance?

Life insurance is often used to describe a specific type of cover known as term life insurance. With this type of policy, you choose how long you want the policy to last (for example, 20 years). The policy will pay out a lump sum if you die within this time. If you survive, there will be no payout and your cover will expire.

There are 3 main types of term life cover:

• Level term cover - which had a fixed premium and payout value. Even as you get older, your premiums won't increase, and the policy will still pay out the same amount.
   

• Decreasing term cover - which is mainly used to cover a repayment mortgage or similar debts. The policy stays in line with your mortgage balance, decreasing the payout value as the debt reduces. The premiums are fixed, but are generally cheaper than level term insurance.
   

• Increasing term cover - which increases the payout over time to protect the value from inflation. Because of this, the monthly premiums can also increase.

What is life assurance?

Life assurance is known by most insurers as whole life insurance. As you may have guessed, the policy covers you for the rest of your life, meaning it doesn’t expire after a certain number of years like term life insurance does.

As long as you continue to pay your monthly premiums, the policy will pay out a lump sum regardless of when you die. 

Like term cover, it can be purchased as level or increasing. 

Because it offers greater security, and potentially a guaranteed payout, the premiums for life assurance tend to be more expensive compared to a standard term life insurance policy.

What's the difference between the two?

There are a number of differences that set these policies apart, including:

• Cover length: Life insurance has an expiry date, whereas cover for life assurance is ongoing.

• Cost: Premiums for life assurance are often more expensive than for life insurance as cover tends to last longer.

• Purpose: As the cover is often shorter, life insurance can be tailored to obligations, such as mortgage payments or until your children are financially dependent. Whereas life assurance can be used to cover future expenses, like retirement planning.

Which is better, life assurance or life insurance?

Both types of policies can offer suitable financial protection for you and your loved ones, but it depends on your circumstances.

If you wish to be covered permanently, life assurance (whole life insurance) may be the better option. It guarantees a payout no matter when you die, as long as premiums are paid. This can be useful if you're looking to leave a legacy, cover funeral costs, or build a financial safety net for your family.

On the other hand, if you want cover for a specific period, like while you pay off a mortgage, raise children, or support a spouse, life insurance (term life insurance) may be more suitable. It's generally more affordable, especially if you're young.

Where can I get protection?

If you've decided which type of cover you need, you can apply for a quote online through Cavendish Online. We can provide affordable quotes for both life insurance and life assurance for leading brands.

However, if you're still unsure about your options, our friendly advisers can provide you with guidance on choosing a policy. This also applies to those with medical disclosures or hazardous occupations. You can call our team on

01392 436 193 

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

Have you ever thought about what might happen to your loved ones if you were no longer around? It's the last thing you want to think about, but sadly, anything is a possibility in life. While they may have savings or other financial resources to rely on, it may not be enough to cover all the expenses.

In this guide, we'll explore some of the main reasons you may need life insurance cover, as well as the benefits it can offer.

Why life insurance?

As long as you have people who depend on you financially, life insurance may be a good idea.

While there's no legal requirement to have life cover, you may need it in certain situations, such as if:

You have dependants who rely on your income

If you have dependants such as a spouse/partner, children, elderly parents or siblings to care for, they may be left vulnerable without your financial support.

While life insurance can't replace the emotional loss, it can help to cover the income lost by your death. This could mean helping your dependents cover their living costs such as their education, mortgage payments, debts, and more.

You have existing debts

Life insurance can be a smart way to financially protect outstanding debts, such as a mortgage, personal loans, or credit card balances. Without insurance, your family might be burdened with these financial obligations after your passing.

There are specific types of life insurance that can cover debts, such as a repayment mortgage, known as decreasing term life insurance. It works by gradually reducing the cover amount over time, mirroring the balance of your mortgage. The aim is to pay off your mortgage if you pass away before it's fully repaid.

You’re planning for future expenses

Life insurance can also play a vital role in planning for future expenses, such as children's education or retirement savings for your spouse. With rising education costs, the policy could help make sure your children’s educational dreams are not hindered by unexpected financial shortages.

Likewise, your spouse might need additional support to help with their retirement planning. Without cover in place, they may be forced to dip into their savings to cover your income or to pay towards end-of-life costs such as a funeral

Permanent life policies, such as whole life insurance, are often a great fit when it comes to planning for the future. With no expiry date, you don't have to worry about outliving your cover.

You want to cover funeral expenses

Funeral costs can be surprisingly high, and without any planning, it could become a significant burden for your family. According to research, even a simple funeral can cost around £4,285[1].

There's so much to take into account, such as transportation, flowers, burial plots, and ceremony fees. When added up, these can all strain your family’s finances during an already difficult time.

Your life insurance policy could help to cover these expenses, in which case your family won't have to worry about these costs or downsizing your wishes.

Even if you have a funeral plan, it still may be worth taking out life insurance cover alongside it. For more information, please see: Life Insurance vs Funeral Plan - What's the Difference?

You want to leave a financial legacy

Even if your family has the means to get by in the event of your death, you may still want to leave an inheritance. This may be to help give your children or grandchildren a head start in life, such as funding for their first home or supporting their future education. You can also choose to leave your policy to a worthy cause, such as a charity.

If you have a high-value estate, your beneficiaries might be subject to inheritance tax, which could significantly reduce the amount they actually receive. In this case, you could opt to write your policy in trust.

You own a business

As a business owner, your death could have a profound impact on the day-to-day running of the business. Without adequate planning, it might leave your business partners or employees in a precarious situation.

If you're a key part of the business, your absence could lead to financial hardship or loss of confidence amongst clients and investors. Policies like key person insurance can help stabilise the business during challenging times.

If you're a family-run business, it may make sense to have joint life insurance, which can cover two people under one policy. If you or your business partner were to pass away, the surviving policyholder could use the payout to cover debts and expenses.

You’ve had a major life change

Today, life insurance may seem unnecessary, but tomorrow it could make all the difference to your loved ones. This especially applies to key moments in life such as:

• Getting married
   

• Becoming a parent
   

• Buying a home
   

• Taking on joint debts
   

• Supporting an ageing parent
   

• Starting a business
   

• Having a health scare

In any of these cases, life insurance is more than just a policy — it’s a safety net for the people who matter most. It helps to provide peace of mind, knowing your loved ones could be financially secure, even as your responsibilities in life increase.

How can I get life insurance?

In today's fast-paced world, getting cheap life insurance cover is easier than ever. Thanks to companies like Cavendish Online, you can find affordable quotes in a matter of minutes. With the help of our expert advisers, you'll have all the advice and guidance you need to choose the best policy for your needs.

When you apply for a quote online, we'll ask you some basic questions such as your age and health as well as the amount of cover you are looking to buy. We'll then show you rates from leading life insurance providers and help you compare the options available.

But if you're not sure where to start, we recommend speaking to an adviser who can provide personalised guidance tailored to your situation. You can call our team on:

01392 436 193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

[1]https://www.sunlife.co.uk/over-50-life-insurance/funeral-costs/

Arthritis is a common condition, especially amongst older adults. According to the NHS, more than 10 million people in the UK have arthritis or similar conditions that affect the joints.

But what impact can it have on life insurance? We'll explain how it could affect your options for cover and what else you need to know before you apply.

Can I get life insurance with arthritis?

Having arthritis won't prevent you from getting life insurance. However, the type and severity of your arthritis may affect aspects such as your premiums and the amount of cover you can get.

There are two main types of arthritis:

Osteoarthritis

This is the most common form of arthritis, often age-related and caused by wear and tear on the joints. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually wears down over time.

Osteoarthritis most commonly affects joints in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. It's typically considered low to moderate risk by insurers, especially if well-managed.

Rheumatoid arthritis

This occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own joints, causing swelling, pain, and joint damage. It often affects joints on both sides of the body (like both hands or both knees) and can also impact other parts of the body, such as the heart or lungs.

Some insurers may see it as a higher risk, especially if symptoms are severe. You might pay higher premiums or be asked for extra medical info. But if your RA is under control, you can still qualify for affordable cover.

Even if your condition is severe, you can still get life insurance with no medical, though your premiums may be more expensive.

Why do you need life insurance?

Life insurance acts as a financial safety net, helping your family stay afloat if you're no longer around. You can tailor your policy to suit your needs and budget, whether it’s a fixed payout, decreasing term (to cover a mortgage), or whole-of-life cover.

It’s not just about having a policy, it’s about having the right one.

If you're not sure where to start, ask yourself:

• Do you have children, a partner, or someone who depends on you financially?
   

• Would your family struggle without your income?
   

• Do you have a mortgage – and how much is left to pay?
   

• Are there any outstanding debts or loans in your name?
   

• Do you have any ongoing finance agreements? (e.g. car payments)
   

• Would your family have enough savings to cover bills, funeral costs, or everyday expenses?

How does getting life insurance with arthritis work?

When you apply for life insurance, you'll be asked if you have any pre-existing conditions to disclose, which includes arthritis. Your insurer may also ask for details regarding your condition, such as:

• How long have you had arthritis?
   

• What type of arthritis do you have?
   

• What are your symptoms?
   

• What treatment and medication are you receiving?
   

• How frequently do you experience flare-ups?
   

• Are there any complications related to your condition?
   

• Have you been in hospital or had surgeries related to arthritis?

In many cases, if your arthritis is well-managed and doesn’t limit your daily activities, the premiums could be affordable.

However, more severe forms, like having advanced rheumatoid arthritis with mobility issues, could mean higher premiums or limited policy options.

Do I need to disclose my arthritis to my insurer?

It might be tempting not to mention your arthritis to try and get cheaper cover, but this can backfire. If you leave out important information, your insurer could refuse to pay out in the future or cancel your policy altogether.

If your death is related to your arthritis, your insurer could deny a claim made on your policy. In which case, your loved ones would be left without support. The same applies to any other pre-existing conditions or lifestyle habits, such as smoking.

Can I get critical illness cover if I have arthritis?

Critical illness cover is designed to pay out a cash lump sum if you're diagnosed with a serious medical condition such as a heart attack, stroke, or cancer. It won’t cover arthritis on its own, as arthritis isn’t usually classed as a critical illness. However, it may cover complications that arise because of your arthritis.

For example, if your arthritis leads to permanent disability, loss of mobility, or if it contributes to a stroke or another covered condition, a claim might be considered.

Like with life insurance, your insurer will want to know more about your condition and medical history. 

If you have arthritis at the time of application, please be aware that it may lead to exclusions on a critical illness policy. Because of that, it's usually best to speak to a whole of market adviser who can find you the most comprehensive options. 

You can speak to a member of our whole of market team on

01392 436193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

Can I get income protection if I have arthritis?

Income protection is designed to pay you a regular income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. If you have arthritis, you may still be able to get cover, but the insurer will want to understand how your condition affects your ability to work. If your arthritis is severe and prevents you from working, you may be able to make a claim.

Please be aware that if you have arthritis at the time of application, exclusions may apply to your policy. These will be outlined in your documents so that you can be sure about what exactly you are covered for. Since this policy can be more complex than life insurance, it's best to speak to a whole of market insurance adviser or financial adviser to help ensure you have a policy suited to your circumstances. 

You can speak to a member of our whole of market team on

01392 436193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

Key Takeaways:

• You can likely get life insurance if you have arthritis, especially if it’s well-managed.

• Osteoarthritis is typically seen as lower risk than rheumatoid arthritis.

• Always be honest about your medical history – it could affect future claims.

• Critical illness cover won’t usually provide a payout for arthritis, but complications may be covered.

• Income protection may still be available, though arthritis-related claims could be excluded depending on severity.

If you're unsure of which type of cover you need, Cavendish Online is here to help. Our expert advisers can provide tailored guidance on which cover may be best for your circumstances.

01329 436193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

Critical illness insurance is a type of cover that can be added to a life insurance policy or bought as a standalone policy. It's designed to pay out a cash lump sum if you are diagnosed with or undergo a medical procedure for a serious illness or injury and survive between 10 and 14 days from diagnosis.

In some instances, cover can be limited; for example, certain types of cancer may excluded. So, what types of illnesses and injuries does this policy cover? In this guide, we'll look at the most common illnesses and injuries that are usually covered by most insurers.

Why do I need critical illness cover?

A serious illness or injury can strike at any time, no matter your age or health. Depending on your financial situation, a lengthy or permanent serious health condition that requires time off work could mean significant strain for you and your family.

With critical illness insurance, you receive a lump-sum payment upon diagnosis of a covered condition. If you're unable to work, the policy payout can serve as a source of income, helping you manage daily expenses without draining your savings.

It can mean you're financially prepared if you're unable to work or need specialised treatment. Even with comprehensive health insurance, some procedures and treatments might not be fully covered.

As life insurance does not cover critical illness, it can be useful to have both for added peace of mind.

Illnesses and injuries typically covered by critical illness

While policies vary between insurers, most critical illness insurance plans cover a set list of serious medical conditions. Most UK insurers will cover core conditions, such as:

• Cancer (excluding less advanced cases)

• Heart attack

• Cardiac arrest

• Stroke

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Parkinson’s disease

• Alzheimer’s disease or dementia

• Motor neurone disease (MND)

• Organ transplant

• Kidney failure

• Blindness

• Deafness

• Loss of limb(s)

• Paralysis

Additional conditions covered may vary by provider, but often include:

• Major brain injury

• Benign brain tumour

• Coronary artery bypass surgery

• Heart valve replacement/repair

• Aplastic anaemia

• Bacterial meningitis

• Third-degree burns (covering a significant body area)

• Coma

• Liver failure

• Encephalitis

• Loss of speech

• Coronary artery bypass grafts

• Pulmonary arterial hypertension

The policy does not cover conditions considered pre-existing or conditions that are associated with your family’s medical history.

To find out more, the Association of British Insurers have put together a guide on the minimum requirements for critical illness cover - i.e. the things all critical illness plans must cover. 

Heart attack

Most types of heart attacks are covered by critical illness insurance, with acute coronary syndromes and angina with myocardial infarction being the exception. Some policies may also cover heart and chest-related surgeries, such as thoracotomy (where a heart valve is repaired or replaced).

Stroke

Strokes can lead to a variety of significant consequences, such as paralysis, vision problems, and impaired cognitive abilities. Such implications can affect your ability to work and maintain your previous quality of life.

Most policies specify that the stroke must lead to symptoms persisting for at least 24 hours. This may exclude transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), often referred to as mini-strokes, as these do not typically cause permanent damage.

Cancer

More than 400,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK, with someone diagnosed at least every 90 seconds on average. [1] Not all types of cancer are covered under a critical illness plan, however. It often depends on aspects like the stage and seriousness of the disease.

Generally, critical illness insurance will cover more advanced forms of cancer, such as Leukaemia, Lymphoma or invasive cancers like Malignant tumours that have spread.

Most policies may exclude early-stage cancers that can be treated effectively and without extensive medical intervention (stage 0-1). Benign tumours may also be excluded as they don't tend to pose the same level of threat to life or require extensive treatment.

Insurers may also exclude in situ cancers, which are confined to the place where they started and haven’t spread.

Due to the potential loss of life associated with cancer, you may want to consider life insurance as well as critical illness cover. In the event of your death, it could help your family maintain essential costs like mortgage repayments as well as your funeral expenses.

Organ failure

Major organ failure is typically covered by most insurers, but policies may have specific conditions or exclusions.

Liver failure is usually covered, though insurers often specify qualifying causes such as chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. Critical illness cover may exclude less severe conditions or early-stage liver disease.

Kidney failure is also included, particularly when it leads to permanent and irreversible loss of function, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant. It is often caused by conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, but insurers can have specific terms regarding what qualifies as significant kidney failure.

Loss of limb

Would you still be able to do your job if you suddenly lost a hand, arm, leg or an eye? While it may seem unlikely, the loss of a limb or an eye can have a detrimental effect on your ability to work and perform daily activities.

Critical illness cover includes the permanent physical loss of a limb, such as an arm, leg, hand, or foot. However, the loss usually needs to be complete, meaning full amputation rather than partial loss. For example, the policy may not pay out if you lose a finger or toe rather than an entire limb.

You may also be ineligible from injuries deemed self-inflicted or those resulting from high-risk activities like extreme sports.

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective coating around your body's nerves, disrupting signals between the brain and body. It can cause symptoms like weakness, vision problems, and difficulty with movement, which can impact your ability to work as you did previously.

There are different exclusions for MS based on the severity of your condition. Early-stage or mild cases without lasting neurological symptoms may not be covered. Some insurers may require you to show symptoms for a minimum period before accepting your claim.

How to get advice on critical illness cover

Cavendish Online is committed to helping you find the cheapest premiums and the right cover for your needs.

You can purchase a critical illness policy through Cavendish Online in three ways:

Get a quote online: If you have no health disclosures, you can apply for critical illness cover alongside your life cover via the Cavendish website. Limited options are available online, but more are accessible through our phone services.

Guidance (Phone): If you know what you're looking for, our Guidance team can provide quotes and help with applications, allowing different cover amounts for life and critical Illness cover.

Advice (Phone): If you have health issues or high-risk factors, our advised team will provide recommendations and tailor cover to your needs.

For more info, call us on

01392 436193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)

[1]https://www.macmillan.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/research/cancer-statistics-fact-sheet

As you plan for the future, two financial products are bound to come into focus: pensions and life insurance. Both can serve as pillars of your financial security, yet they function quite differently.

If you have a pension, you may be wondering, "Do I really need life insurance if I already have a pension?" The answer isn't a simple yes or no, as it largely depends on your personal circumstances. In this article, we'll help answer this question and explain the differences between the two.

What's the difference between pension​s and life insurance?

Both life insurance and pensions share the goal of providing financial security, but they achieve this in different ways and serve distinct purposes. Let's break it down...

Life insurance

Life insurance is an agreement between you and an insurer. If you die whilst covered by the policy,, the insurer pays a lump sum to your designated beneficiaries (pending a successful claim). In exchange, you pay a monthly premium for cover.

The payout can help cover immediate expenses such as funeral costs, pay off debts, or provide your family with ongoing financial support.

How the policy pays out depends on the type of life insurance policy you have. Some policies last indefinitely, and others have expiration dates.

Pensions

A pension is a retirement savings plan that provides you with a regular income after you retire. It is typically funded throughout your working life through employer contributions, personal contributions, or both, often with tax relief from the government.

Unlike life insurance, which is designed to provide financial support to your dependants if you pass away, a pension ensures you have sufficient income to maintain your lifestyle in retirement.

While both financial products offer security, they serve different purposes: life insurance protects your loved ones, whereas a pension helps secure your own financial future in retirement.

What happens to your pension when you die?

How the pension is affected after your death can depend on the type of pension you have and whether you have nominated beneficiaries.

If you have a workplace or private pension (defined contribution), the money can usually be passed to your beneficiaries. If you die before age 75, they can often inherit it tax-free as a lump sum or regular income. If you die after age 75, any withdrawals they make will be taxed at their income tax rate.

For final salary (defined benefit) pensions, some schemes provide a reduced pension fund to a spouse, partner, or dependent, but the amount and eligibility depend on the scheme’s rules.

A State Pension does not get passed on when you die. In some cases, a spouse or civil partner may inherit additional payments or qualify for bereavement benefits based on your contributions to National Insurance.

Should I take out life insurance alongside my pension plan?

Even if you have a sizeable pension, it could still make sense to have life insurance cover. In some cases, the money from your pension may not be enough to keep your family afloat in your absence. Or, your partner or spouse may not be entitled to a significant portion of your pension benefits, particularly if you're relying on a state pension.

Another example could be if you die after you've retired. In this case, you may not have as much pension left to provide for your loved ones, especially if you have already withdrawn a large portion of it for your living expenses.

Pensions aren’t always guaranteed, as they can be affected by market fluctuations and changes in pension schemes. Both may impact the benefits available to your beneficiaries.

Life insurance, on the other hand, is customisable, allowing you to select a cover amount and policy term that aligns with your needs. It can serve as an additional safety net, so your family has financial protection, helping to cover ongoing expenses, debts, or costs for your children.

By having both, you can provide greater protection to your family should the worst happen.

What are the main types of life insurance?

There are two main types of life insurance policies:

• Whole life insurance (life assurance) - which covers you for the remainder of your life. As long as you continue to pay your premiums, your family will receive a fixed lump sum when you die.

• Term life insurance - which covers you for a set period of time, typically between 5-50 years. The policy will pay out if you die within the term. If you survive the term, the policy expires, no payout is made, and you will need to take out a new policy if needed.

There are specific types of term cover:

• Level – where the payout value and premium remain fixed throughout the policy term.
   

• Increasing – where the payout value increases over time to protect the value from inflation. The premiums can also increase.
   

• Decreasing – where the policy is used to protect debts, such as a repayment mortgage. The payout decreases over time as repayments are made.

Please note: The insurance products offered by Cavendish Online have no cash-in value at any time. If you stop paying your premiums your cover will stop, your policy will end, and you will receive no benefit. If you have not claimed before the end of your chosen policy term, the policy will end, and no benefit will be paid.

What types of life insurance work well with a pension?

When it comes to having a pension, both whole and term life insurance can offer added protection.

Level term life insurance can act as a form of income replacement while you're still working or early in retirement. It also tends to be cheaper than whole cover as a payout is not guaranteed.

Whole life insurance can be useful if you want your family to have long-term protection before and after retirement. It can also be suitable if you wish to leave an inheritance, though the monthly premiums are often more expensive.

Aside from life insurance cover, you might consider other protection products:

• Critical illness cover – Provides a lump sum payout if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness, helping to cover medical costs or lost income.

• Income protection insurance – Replaces a portion of your income (typically 50-70% of your gross annual income) if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury.

Where to get advice

If you have a pension and are wondering whether life insurance is still necessary, speaking to our advisers can help you make the right choice. They will look at your pension, your financial situation, and what your family might need in the future to see if extra protection is a good idea.

Some pensions provide support for your loved ones when you pass away, but not all offer enough to cover their needs. By discussing your situation with our advisers, they can provide advice on which options may be suitable.

The process can take different amounts of time depending on your situation. Our advisers will search the market for the best options, explain your choices clearly, and help you through the application.

Call Cavendish Online today on

01392 436193

(Monday to Thursday 9am – 5.30pm, Friday 9am – 5pm)