Life Insurance UK: Compare the Best Policies and Real Benefits

Compare the whole market, choose a term that matches your mortgage or dependants' needs, avoid unnecessary add-ons and review your policy regularly. If your existing policy was set up years ago, you may find a better deal.

It depends on your individual circumstances, preferences and financial obligations, such as a mortgage or loans. Two people of the same age can have totally opposite circumstances, so copying a friend's or neighbour's cover amount isn't a safe guide. Life insurance isn't a one-size-fits-all product.
A useful starting point is to add up your mortgage, other debts, funeral costs and the income your family would need to replace. Read our full guide: How Much Life Insurance Cover Do I Need in the UK?

Age and Residency Rules

Most UK insurers accept applicants aged 18 to around 77, and you generally need to be a UK resident. Limits vary by provider.

Generally, no. A medical examination is not usually required if the cover you want falls within standard underwriting limits. For under-60s with no prior medical conditions, there's usually just a standard questionnaire, with extra questions for those over 50. Underwriting varies with your age, health, lifestyle and the amount requested. Insurers set non-medical limits that are usually lower for older applicants.

Yes, it's usually possible, though it may not be at standard rates. Cost depends on the type of diabetes, how well it's controlled, your age, smoking status, BMI and other conditions. Every insurer assesses it differently, so an adviser can help find the most suitable provider.

Getting a quote can be quick, but cover only starts once the insurer accepts your application. Instant life insurance decisions are possible on some simple policies when your answers fall within the insurer’s standard limits. If you have a health condition, a higher cover amount or you are over 50, the insurer may ask more questions, which takes longer. An adviser can tell you which route is likely to be fastest for your situation.

Life insurance payouts are usually free of income tax. However, the payout can count towards your estate for inheritance tax unless the policy is written in trust. Tax rules can change and depend on your circumstances, so speak to a qualified FCA-authorised insurance broker.

Life insurance providers generally pay out if the policyholder dies abroad, but there are exclusions. For example, it may not pay out if you've moved abroad permanently or stayed abroad longer than a set period. Standard policies usually include worldwide cover, provided the policy was taken out as a UK resident.

Yes, you can usually cancel your policy at any time, and there are typically no penalties. Check your policy terms for details.

Claims can be rejected or only partly paid if you didn't disclose information accurately when taking out the policy. Answer all questions honestly and in full.

You don't need to change your life insurance just because you've changed jobs, unless you want to. Review it if your income has changed, or if your new job offers no death-in-service benefit or sick pay.

Common exclusions include death by suicide in the first year (policy dependent), undisclosed health conditions and some hazardous activities. Always check your policy documents.

Standard life cover is not free, but the advice is. Assured Life UK charges no fee for advice, and free life insurance features such as terminal illness cover are included with standard policies. Be wary of any offer promising free life insurance with no premiums at all. Cover that costs nothing usually comes with strict limits, or it is a way to collect your details for sales calls. Plans start from £5 a month.