Can You Get Critical Illness Cover Over 60?
It depends on the insurer. Most UK CIC providers have maximum entry ages of:
| Insurer | Maximum CIC Entry Age |
|---|---|
| Aviva | 64 |
| Legal & General | 59 |
| Royal London | 64 |
| Vitality | 64 |
| AIG | 59 |
| Zurich | 64 |
If you are 60–64, several insurers can still offer cover. After 65, standalone CIC becomes very difficult to obtain.
Why CIC Costs More After 60
Premiums increase sharply with age because the probability of making a claim rises significantly. A 60-year-old is statistically far more likely to be diagnosed with cancer, have a heart attack, or suffer a stroke than a 30-year-old. Expect to pay 5–10 times more than someone who took out cover at 30.
Alternatives to CIC After 60
If CIC is unavailable or unaffordable, consider these alternatives:
- Private medical insurance (PMI) – Covers treatment costs directly, though premiums are also higher at older ages
- Savings and investments – If you have substantial savings, you may self-insure
- Whole of life insurance – Provides a guaranteed payout on death (not on illness) and is available at older ages
- Equity release – If you own your home outright, equity release can provide funds if needed
Tips for Getting Cover Over 60
- Use an independent broker who can search the whole market for providers accepting your age
- Consider a shorter term (5–10 years) to keep premiums manageable
- A lower cover amount (£25,000–50,000) may be sufficient for treatment costs
- Be completely honest on your application – non-disclosure at any age will invalidate a claim
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, up to age 64 with several insurers. After 65, standalone CIC is very difficult to obtain.
If you have a mortgage or limited savings, yes. With substantial savings and no debt, self-insurance may work.