How much does critical illness cover cost at 65?
For a healthy non-smoking 65-year-old, £100,000 of level term critical illness cover over 25 years typically costs around £200–£320 per month. Prices vary depending on health, smoking status, sum assured, and insurer.
Why buy critical illness cover at 65?
- Premiums are fixed at the point of application — locking in now means lower monthly payments for the full policy term
- Your health is likely to be better now than in future years — meaning better terms and fewer exclusions
- A serious illness at any age can have devastating financial consequences
How much critical illness cover do I need at 65?
A good starting point at 65 is enough to:
- Clear your outstanding mortgage balance
- Cover 12–24 months of lost income while you recover
- Pay for any private treatment or home adaptations
For many people at 65, this means £100,000–£300,000 of cover. Use our comparison tool to model different amounts and see how they affect your premium.
What conditions are covered?
Standard critical illness policies cover 30–140 serious conditions including cancer, heart attack, stroke, multiple sclerosis, organ failure, and many others. The payout is a tax-free lump sum you can use however you choose.
Level vs decreasing CIC at 65
Level cover maintains the same payout throughout the term — best for income replacement. Decreasing cover reduces over time (typically alongside a repayment mortgage) and costs around 20–30% less. Many people at 65 choose level cover for maximum flexibility.
Should I combine life insurance and CIC?
A combined policy is simple and usually cheaper than two separate policies. However, standalone CIC gives more flexibility — you can adjust each policy independently as your needs change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — 65 is a reasonable age to buy critical illness cover. Premiums are higher but cover remains valuable, and you lock in your rate for the full policy term.
Most people choose a term that runs until their mortgage is paid off or until they reach retirement age — whichever is relevant to their main financial goals.