Short answer: Yes — UK life insurance pays out for death by suicide after a 12-month exclusion period from the policy start date. Every major UK insurer (Aviva, Legal & General, Vitality, Royal London, Zurich, AIG, LV=, Scottish Widows) uses this same 12-month exclusion. After 12 months, death by suicide is treated the same as any other cause.
For who: applicants concerned about mental health and life insurance.
Reviewed by: Ben Darke, lifecoverfor.com · Last updated: 2026-06-03
Reviewed by: Ben Darke, lifecoverfor.com · Last updated: 2026-06-03
Key facts (2026)
| Standard UK suicide exclusion period | 12 months from policy start date |
| After the 12-month exclusion | Suicide is paid in full like any other cause of death |
| Insurers that use 12-month exclusion | All major UK protection insurers (industry standard) |
| What is returned in the first 12 months | Premiums paid (refund) on most policies |
| Why the exclusion exists | Prevents purchase of cover with immediate intent — has been industry standard for 30+ years |
Sources
ABI standard policy wording, individual insurer 2026 key facts documents.
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