Start with the event you want to plan for. These types of protection serve different purposes. A policy name alone does not tell you what it pays, when it pays or whether it suits your household.
Three types of cover, different purposes
| Cover | General purpose | Questions to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Life insurance | A benefit following the insured person’s death during the period of cover, subject to the terms. | Who is covered? What benefit is payable? How long does cover last? |
| Critical illness cover | A benefit when a diagnosis meets a condition and definition covered by the policy. | Which conditions and severities qualify? What exclusions or other claim requirements apply? |
| Income protection | Regular benefits if illness or injury prevents work under the policy’s definition. | What counts as being unable to work? When do benefits start, how much could be paid and for how long? |
Look at what is already in place
Bring an outline of your existing policies, employer benefits, savings, dependants and ongoing commitments to the conversation. The purpose is to identify what needs understanding before considering a change. Avoid comparing policies only on the monthly premium: benefits, limitations and the period covered can differ.
Questions worth asking before choosing cover
- What event or circumstance would trigger a claim?
- What definitions, exclusions and waiting periods apply?
- How do the benefit amount and payment period relate to the need being discussed?
- Can premiums or benefits change during the policy?
- What happens if work, family or mortgage circumstances change?
- How does the proposed cover interact with existing arrangements?
Before replacing an existing policy
Do not cancel existing cover before understanding the consequences and making sure any replacement arrangements are in place. New terms or exclusions can differ. A personal recommendation requires a fuller discussion; this comparison does not select a product or assess eligibility.
Explore our personal protection information or use the protection enquiry journey to request a conversation. No health details are needed in the initial questionnaire.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked on 28 October 2026. General information only, not a personal protection recommendation. Cover depends on policy terms, exclusions and eligibility.