Understand the Basics

Below we have answered some frequently asked questions and explained some major life events to help you understand our Life Insurance products.

Please note that the questions and answers on this page should not be considered as financial advice.

What if I die unexpectedly?

Our life protection policies will pay out a lump sum to help support your family and repay any debts, like your mortgage, if you die during the term of cover. We may also pay out if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness. (Certain restrictions apply). Payment from this plan will normally go to your estate, which may be subject to Inheritance Tax. Inheritance Tax could apply to the part of your estate that is worth more than £325,000 for tax year 2009/10.

What if I can't work because I'm sick or have had an accident?

With very little support from the state it is important to have additional protection in place.  Our income and mortgage payment protection policies will ensure that you still have regular income coming in if you're unable to work because of long-term sickness or an accident. The money paid out is currently tax free and is designed to protect your standard of living.

What if I'm buying a new home?

With our full range of protection options we can help ensure that you and your family are protected financially in your new home.

What if I'm having a baby?

We all know how much children change our lives, so at a time like this it is more important than ever to make sure that they are financially secure should the worst happen to you. We are able to work out for you how much cover you and your family would need if you died or were unable to work because of an accident or ill health.

What if I become critically ill?

Our critical illness cover can make sure that you receive a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the covered serious illnesses or conditions and survive for at least 14 days. The money can be used to repay a mortgage or other debts or to make alterations to your home to help you and your family adjust. We only cover the critical illnesses defined in our Policy Conditions and no others.

When can I start my cover?

We will guide you through the application process and once your application has been accepted and the availability of cover confirmed we can start your policy immediately or at a date in the future specified by you. It's your choice.

Do I get any money back if I do not die or make a claim before the end of the term?

Sorry, afraid not. These are not savings plans, they are for protection purposes only, and do not have a cash in value at any time. However you will have had the peace of mind that, should the worst have happened, your family would have been protected financially. 

How much cover should I get?

Ultimately you decide how much Life Insurance you need. If you know exactly the level of cover you want and how long you want it for use our quote and apply process . If you are unsure we recommend you get some help, and  double check your requirements  with our online advice service.

When you choose how much cover you need it's important to remember that over time inflation will reduce the real value of your cover.  This means that in the future your cover will buy you less than it would do today.

Can I cover myself against illness as well as death?

Yes you can. We have policies that will pay out a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a group of specified illnesses or conditions. There are also policies that will pay you an income if you can't work due to long-term sickness or an accident.

Who can apply?

All residents in the UK aged between 17 and 79.  Our products are not available to people living in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.  (Some types of cover are only available to apply for up to age 59)

How much does it cost?

Premiums start from £5  per month. The amount you pay depends upon your individual circumstances and the level of cover you need. If you stop paying your premiums your cover may cease.

Can I decide who gets the money?

Yes you can by placing the policy in trust which is something we can help you with. The product literature for the type of policy you choose explains whether it can be placed in a trust. Please note trusts may not be suitable for all types of policy and in all circumstances. If you are in any doubt we recomment you contact a solicitor.

Tax treatment depends on your personal circumstances. Please refer to the relevant Policy Summary or Key Features for details of how benefits from each type of cover will be taxed. Any references to taxation are based on our understanding of current legislation and HM Revenue & Customs practice, which is subject to change.