Sickness Policy - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sickness Policy?
The Sickness Policy pays a regular benefit when you are unable to work due to sickness or injury. Benefit is paid after your chosen deferment period of either 1 or 4 weeks for your maximum benefit period of either 26 or 52 weeks.
Do I have to provide evidence of earnings?
Evidence of earnings is not required.
Does everyone pay the same monthly premiums?
The monthly premium you pay depends on your age at the commencement of the policy as well as your chosen benefit level, deferment period and maximum benefit period.
What is a deferred period?
This is the period from commencement of sickness/injury for which no benefit is payable. The deferred period can be either 1 or 4 weeks. The deferred period is chosen at the outset of the policy and cannot be amended.
What will my policy cost?
Your application form provides a comprehensive selection of the monthly premiums available dependent on the amount of benefit, benefit period and deferred period.
Are there any policy restrictions which would result in non payment of the benefit?
We won't pay a claim within the first month of the policy being in force, when the length of time you are unable to work is less than your chosen deferment period or where the claim is due in any way to:
- Pregnancy or childbirth
- Self inflicted injuries
- Taking part in:
- Military operations
- Air travel (apart from as a fare paying passenger)
- Rock climbing or mountaineering
- War
- Psychiatric illness or mental disorders
- Criminal acts of the policy holder
- HIV or AIDS
- Back related conditions unless there is a physical or radiological evidence of a medical abnormality or a consultant certifies that the condition stops you from working.
Please see the Policy Terms and Conditions for full information on any exclusions. The Society reserves the right to decline a claim when it relates to a pre-existing condition.
What happens if I stop paying premiums?
Premiums are due on the 1st of each month, if you miss a premium your cover will cease immediately. You may reinstate your policy within 12 months of the first missed premium by paying all arrears; however if you miss 3 or more premiums we will require a declaration of continuing good health before reinstating your policy.
Can I increase my cover once my policy has started?
No, however you may be able to take out a further Sickness Policy as long as your total cover does not exceed £400 a week.
How much benefit will be paid?
Your chosen benefit of between £100 and £400 a week will be paid up to your chosen maximum benefit period of either 26 or 52 weeks per incapacity, as long as your maximum benefit period is not exceeded in any 12 month rolling period.
What evidence do I need to provide to prove I am unable to work?
We will require our claim form fully completed along with an accompanying medical certificate from your GP.
Does it cover me for unemployment?
No, it is purely for sickness and injury cover only.
Does this benefit affect my State Benefits?
Yes. The income received from your Sickness Policy could reduce the amounts you receive from the State and any other insurance policies.
Does this benefit affect any sick pay I may receive from my employer?
No. Any arrangement you have with your employer is part of your contract of employment and proceeds from this policy will be deemed to be in addition to them.
What if I change my mind once I have applied?
Once we have received and processed your policy we will send you the policy documents. Included within these will be a "right to cancel" notice. If you feel the policy no longer fulfils your needs, or you have changed your mind, then just return this notice to us within 30 days and we will then refund any premiums paid.
I'm not sure if the Sickness Policy is right for me. What should I do?
If you are unsure as to the suitability of this product you should seek advice from an Independent Financial Adviser. You may have to pay for this advice.
