Critical Illness Cover in Ireland: What You NEED To Know

As an Irish working professional between 35 and 60, you’ve likely given thought to your financial future. B

ut have you considered what would happen if you were suddenly diagnosed with a serious illness?

This is where critical illness cover comes into play.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore critical illness cover in Ireland, its benefits, costs, and why it might be a crucial addition to your financial planning strategy.

What is Critical Illness Cover?

Critical illness cover, also known as serious illness cover in Ireland, is an insurance policy that pays out a tax-free lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a specific serious illness or condition listed in the policy.

This financial safety net can help you focus on recovery without the added stress of financial burdens.

### Key Points:

– Tax-free lump sum payment

– Covers specific illnesses defined in the policy

– Separate from health insurance and income protection

Why Consider Critical Illness Cover?

1. **Financial Security**: A lump sum payment can help cover medical expenses, mortgage payments, or other financial obligations.
2. **Focus on Recovery**: Reduces financial stress, allowing you to concentrate on your health.
3. **Flexibility**: Use the payout as you see fit, whether for treatment, lifestyle changes, or family support.

Irish Serious Illness Cover Benefits

When looking at the best critical illness insurance Ireland has to offer, it’s important to understand the typical benefits:

1. **Comprehensive Coverage**: Policies often cover a wide range of illnesses, including cancer, heart attack, and stroke.
2. **Additional Benefits**: Some policies offer partial payments for less severe conditions or child critical illness cover.
3. **Convertibility**: Certain policies allow conversion to life insurance without medical underwriting.

Critical Illness Policy Comparison Ireland

When comparing policies, consider the following factors:

1. **Illnesses Covered**: The number and types of illnesses covered can vary significantly between providers.
2. **Payout Amounts**: Some policies offer higher payouts for more severe conditions.
3. **Waiting Periods**: The time between diagnosis and payout can differ.
4. **Additional Features**: Look for policies with benefits like counselling services or second medical opinion services.

Top Providers in Ireland:

1. Irish Life
2. Zurich Life
3. Aviva
4. Royal London
5. New Ireland

Each provider offers unique features, so it’s essential to compare policies carefully.

Cost of Critical Illness Protection Ireland

The cost of critical illness cover varies based on several factors:

1. **Age**: Premiums generally increase as you get older.
2. **Health**: Your current health status and medical history affect premiums.
3. **Lifestyle**: Factors like smoking can increase costs.
4. **Coverage Amount**: Higher coverage levels mean higher premiums.
5. **Policy Term**: Longer terms typically result in higher overall costs.

Example Premium Ranges:

– 35-year-old non-smoker: €30-€50 per month for €100,000 coverage

– 50-year-old non-smoker: €70-€100 per month for €100,000 coverage

 

Note: These are illustrative examples. Actual premiums can vary significantly based on individual circumstances and chosen provider.

How Much Cover Do You Need?

Determining the right amount of cover depends on your personal circumstances:

1. **Income Replacement**: Consider how long you’d need to replace your income.
2. **Debts and Obligations**: Factor in mortgage payments, loans, and other financial commitments.
3. **Lifestyle Costs**: Think about potential lifestyle changes or home modifications you might need.
4. **Treatment Costs**: While Ireland has public healthcare, you might want the option of private treatment.

A common rule of thumb is to seek cover equal to 5-10 times your annual salary, but consult with a financial advisor for personalised advice.

Critical Illness Cover vs. Other Insurance Types

Understanding how critical illness cover fits with other insurance types is crucial:

1. **Life Insurance**: Pays out upon death, not illness. Many providers offer combined life and critical illness policies.
2. **Income Protection**: Provides regular payments if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury. Can complement critical illness cover. Here’s a conprehensive blog covering whether you need income protection insurance or not.
3. **Health Insurance**: Covers medical treatment costs but doesn’t provide a lump sum payment for living expenses.

Making a Claim

If you’re diagnosed with a covered illness:

1. Contact your insurance provider immediately.
2. Provide necessary medical documentation.
3. Undergo any required medical examinations.
4. Wait for the claim to be processed (typically 2-4 weeks).

If you have been unfortunate enough to have been diagnosed with serious illness, it may be time to consider making a will. 

Tax Considerations

In Ireland, critical illness cover payouts are generally tax-free.

However, if the policy is owned by a company, there may be benefit-in-kind tax implications for employees.

Always consult with a tax professional for advice on your specific situation.

Case Study: The Impact of Critical Illness Cover

Consider Sarah, a 45-year-old marketing executive in Dublin:

– Salary: €70,000 per year

– Mortgage: €250,000 remaining

– Critical Illness Cover: €350,000

When Sarah was diagnosed with breast cancer, her critical illness policy paid out €350,000. This allowed her to:

– Take time off work for treatment without financial stress

– Pay for additional therapies not covered by her health insurance

– Clear her mortgage, reducing ongoing financial commitments

– Focus entirely on her recovery without money worries

Is Critical Illness Cover Right for You?

As an Irish working professional without current cover, critical illness insurance offers valuable protection. Consider it if:

 

1. You have financial dependents
2. You have significant debts like a mortgage
3. Your employer doesn’t offer comprehensive sick pay
4. You want additional financial security beyond state benefits

However, it’s not suitable for everyone. If you have substantial savings, no major debts, or prefer to self-insure, you might choose to forego this cover.

How to Get Started

1. **Assess Your Needs**: Consider your financial obligations and desired coverage level.
2. **Compare Policies**: Use comparison sites or speak with multiple providers to understand your options.
3. **Speak with a Financial Advisor**: Get personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.
4. **Read the Fine Print**: Understand exactly what is and isn’t covered before committing to a policy.

 

Conclusion

Critical illness cover in Ireland offers valuable protection for working professionals, providing a financial safety net in the face of serious health challenges.

By understanding the benefits, costs, and considerations of this insurance type, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for your financial planning strategy.

Remember, the best critical illness insurance Ireland has to offer is the one that fits your specific needs and circumstances.

Take the time to compare options, understand the details, and seek professional advice if needed.

Your future self may thank you for the peace of mind and financial security that comes with being prepared for life’s unexpected challenges.