Choosing the right income protection insurance can be challenging with so many providers offering different features and pricing. We've researched the market to bring you our top 10 shortlist of the best income protection insurers in the UK.
Income protection insurance replaces a portion of your income (typically 50-70%) if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. It provides regular monthly payments to help cover your essential expenses like mortgage, bills, and living costs.
The best income protection policy for you depends on your personal circumstances, budget, and what you want to cover. Our expert comparison service helps you find the right balance between comprehensive coverage and affordable premiums.
Who offers the UK's best income protection insurance?
LV= (Liverpool Victoria): Leading provider with comprehensive coverage options and competitive rates
Holloway Friendly: Specialist income protection provider with tax-free benefits
NFU Mutual: Excellent customer service and flexible policy terms
Shepherds Friendly: Affordable premiums with guaranteed acceptance options
Aviva: Wide range of additional benefits and rehabilitation support
Royal London: Strong financial ratings and comprehensive mental health cover
Legal & General: Market leader with fast claims processing
British Friendly Society: Specialist in income protection with competitive pricing
Guardian: Comprehensive cover with business expense options
Cirencester Friendly: Tax-free income protection with lifetime cover options
What is the best income protection insurance UK?
At LifePro, we've done a deep dive into the various income protection providers in the UK to bring you our top 10 shortlist.
While we have compiled this list based on research, the best income protection for you will depend on your personal circumstances (such as your budget and what you want to cover).
Key factors to consider when choosing an income protection provider:
Level of cover (typically 50-70% of your gross income)
Deferred period (how long before payments start)
Payment period (short-term or until retirement)
Definition of incapacity (own occupation vs any occupation)
Additional benefits (rehabilitation support, mental health cover)
Premium guarantee options
Financial strength of the insurer
Through our advised service you can compare all the insurers from our top 10 list, plus many more.
Our whole of market income protection comparison service means you can discover the best available deal to meet your needs and budget, without paying any fees.
Why use LifePro to discover the best income protection insurance?
Whole-of-market comparison from 50+ UK insurers
Expert advice from FCA-regulated advisors
No extra cost - insurers pay our commission
Fast quotes in 60 seconds
Support throughout your policy lifetime
What's the best value income protection insurance?
According to our income protection quote comparison service, Vitality offers the best value income protection.
This is based on them offering the most affordable income protection, starting from just £5 per month.
While we may identify one insurer as the 'best value', the right insurer for you could differ due to your personal circumstances and what type of cover you're looking for.
Below we have highlighted 4 of our most affordable income protection providers.
Quotes are based on a non-smoker, in good health, with an annual income of £30,000. The policy term is until age 65, with a 13 week deferred period and short term payment period:
Monthly Income Protection Premiums by Age (£30,000 income, 70% cover, 13-week deferred period)
The exact price you pay for cover can vary depending on your personal circumstances and which insurer you secure cover through.
Comparing multiple income protection quotes can help you discover the best available price.
Why not use our fee-free service to compare whole of market quotes?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does income protection insurance cost?
Income protection premiums typically range from £5-£50 per month, depending on your age, occupation, health, and the level of cover you choose. Factors like deferred period length and payment period also affect the cost.
How much of my income can I protect?
Most insurers allow you to protect between 50-70% of your gross income. This percentage limit ensures you maintain an incentive to return to work when you're able to.
What is a deferred period?
The deferred period is the waiting time between becoming unable to work and when your income protection payments begin. Common options are 1, 4, 13, 26, or 52 weeks. Longer deferred periods result in lower premiums.
Does income protection cover redundancy?
No, income protection insurance only covers inability to work due to illness or injury. It does not cover unemployment or redundancy. You would need separate unemployment insurance for that.
How long will income protection pay out?
You can choose short-term cover (1-2 years) or long-term cover that pays until you return to work, reach retirement age, or the policy ends. Long-term policies offer more comprehensive protection but cost more.
Can I claim on income protection for mental health?
Yes, most modern income protection policies cover mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and stress if they prevent you from working. Check your policy wording as some older policies may have exclusions.
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