How smoker status changes IP underwriting
Smokers can take out income protection cover, though it is generally more expensive than equivalent cover for non-smokers.
Insurers treat smokers as a higher underwriting risk, so monthly premiums are typically 20–50% higher than for someone of the same age and occupation who does not smoke.
That pricing reflects the well-documented health impact of smoking — including raised blood pressure, respiratory disease, cardiovascular conditions and various cancers — each of which can increase the likelihood of a future claim.
Affordable cover is still available for smokers, particularly when comparing across the UK income protection market rather than going to a single insurer.
LifePro compares income protection quotes from a wide range of UK insurers on your behalf, including those that take a more flexible view on smokers.
Quotes through LifePro are free to obtain and come with no obligation to buy.
How much income protection insurance do you need?
The amount of income protection insurance you need depends on your individual circumstances and financial commitments. Most experts recommend covering 50-70% of your gross annual income, as this typically provides enough to maintain your standard of living if you're unable to work due to illness or injury.
When calculating how much cover you need, consider:
- Your monthly mortgage or rent payments
- Household bills and utilities
- Childcare costs
- Loan repayments and credit card bills
- Daily living expenses for your family
- Any savings you have that could cover short-term absences
Remember that income protection payments are tax-free, so you may not need to replace your full salary. The key is ensuring you can maintain your essential outgoings and standard of living during a period when you're unable to work.
To get an accurate quote tailored to your needs, use our free comparison service to compare quotes from 50+ UK providers, including Smoker Income Protection.
Run a Free IP Quote Comparison »Why a whole-of-market quote run matters for smoker rates
- Whole-of-market comparison from 50+ UK insurers
- Expert advice from FCA-regulated advisors
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- Support throughout your policy lifetime
What’s the best income protection for smokers?
There is no single best smoker income protection policy — the right choice depends on your age, occupation, deferred-period appetite, sick-pay arrangements, and any other medical history alongside smoking. The policy that suits a 32-year-old non-manual employee is rarely the policy that suits a 48-year-old self-employed tradesperson.
Before choosing a policy, the policy terms that matter most for smokers are:
