Long-term income protection is an insurance policy that is designed to cover you if you're unable to work due to injury or illness. It does not cover death which is usually catered for under separate life assurance policies.

Income protection usually pays out until retirement, death or your return to work, although short-term income protection policies are now available at a lower cost. Income protection doesn't pay out if you're made redundant, but will often provide 'back to work' help if you're off sick.

The maximum you can insure is usually around 50-60% of your earnings, as the provider needs to ensure there is an incentive for you to return to work. The good news is that claims are currently tax-free.

It is important to note that income protection policies only pay out once a pre-agreed period has passed (generally from 1 to 12 months after you claim). The longer the delay before you are able to claim, the lower your premiums.

Income protection is not the same as payment protection insurance (PPI)! PPI covers a particular debt and any payouts go to your lender, whereas income protection gives you the tax-free sum if you're unable to work due to illness or injury.

For more information speak to a mortgage protection adviser on 01628 507477 or contact us.

Related articles:

Download our Free First Time Buyers Guide

Recent posts

Deals of week web larger

Here are the lowest fixed mortgage rates of the week, available to first-time buyers, home movers, buy-to-let, and those remortgaging.

Call us for more information: 01628 507477 or email: team@mortgagerequired.com.

Lenders React To Iran War   Web Larger

The UK mortgage market is seeing lenders withdraw deals and hike mortgage rates amid the escalation of conflict in Iran. This isn’t great news for borrowers, with the average rate for a two-year fixed deal sitting above 5%.

Salaries Not Enough For Deposit   Web Larger

Statistics now show that those looking to purchase a property would have to save a deposit bigger than their annual gross pay.

Prices Set To Rise For FTB   Web Larger

Analysis from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) shows that those looking to buy their first home could face a sharp increase if house prices follow the latest predictions, as Coventry Building Society suggests.

Mortgage Cheaper Than Rent   Web Larger

According to Zoopla, four in 10 homes are now cheaper to buy with a mortgage than to rent due to lower-cost mortgages - a sign that ownership is becoming more affordable.

World Sleep Day Tips

13 days ago

World Sleep Day   Web Larger 1

There are many people who struggle with getting a good night’s sleep. Having poor sleep hygiene can be the reason for bad sleep quality in adults. Sleep hygiene refers to habits that can help you sleep better.

Here we have shared some tips to create a healthier sleep.

What You Need To Know Remortgage   Web Larger

If your current fixed rate is due to come to an end within the next six months, you will want to start thinking about the options available to you.

Nationwide Electronic Signature   Web Larger

Nationwide is the first lender to allow mortgage deeds to be signed electronically and without the need for a witness.