Can I get income protection with Arthritis?
Income protection with arthritis depends heavily on the type, severity, and which joints are affected. Rheumatoid arthritis that significantly affects ability to work is likely to result in an exclusion for arthritis-related claims. Osteoarthritis affecting weight-bearing joints may similarly be excluded. However, the remaining IP cover — protecting against cancer, heart attack, accidents, and other causes of inability to work — remains fully intact.
How do insurers assess Arthritis for income protection?
Insurers review your full medical history — diagnosis date, current treatment, stability of the condition, and any time off work it has caused. The more stable your condition, the better the terms available.
What terms might be offered?
- Standard terms — if the condition is well-controlled with no recent work absences
- Exclusion — the condition excluded, all other causes of inability to work still covered
- Rated premium — higher premium reflecting additional risk
Is IP still worth it with an exclusion?
Usually yes — an exclusion only applies to the excluded condition. You're still fully protected against accidents, cancer, heart attack, and hundreds of other causes of inability to work.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the insurer and severity. Some exclude arthritis-related claims; others offer standard terms if it's well-controlled. Always compare multiple insurers.
Yes — an exclusion only applies to the excluded condition. All other causes of inability to work remain fully covered.