Critical illness cover for new parents
Having a child is one of the most important reasons to have critical illness cover. If you or your partner were diagnosed with a serious illness, the financial impact on your growing family could be severe. CIC pays a tax-free lump sum on diagnosis — giving you breathing room to focus on recovery without financial pressure.
Why new parents need critical illness cover
- A serious diagnosis means you may not be able to work for months
- Childcare costs don't stop if you're unwell
- Your mortgage payments continue regardless of your health
- Your partner may need to reduce their work hours to care for you and the baby
Children's critical illness cover
Many CIC policies include children's cover as standard — paying a proportion of your sum assured if your child is diagnosed with a serious condition. This allows you to take time off work to be with your child without financial hardship. Check whether this is included in any policy you consider.
How much CIC do new parents need?
Review your mortgage balance and calculate how many years of income replacement you'd need as a family. Most new parents should have at least enough to clear the mortgage plus 18–24 months of income replacement — often £200,000–£400,000 per person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many policies include children's critical illness cover as standard. Check the policy terms — covered conditions and payout amounts vary by insurer.
Yes — both parents contribute to the household, whether through income or childcare. A serious illness affecting either parent has a significant financial impact on the family.