Can I get income protection with PTSD?
Income protection for PTSD is available, though many insurers will apply a mental health exclusion — meaning claims arising from PTSD or other mental health conditions would not be paid, but all other causes of incapacity are covered. Some specialist insurers offer full mental health cover for PTSD sufferers with a strong recovery history. Own occupation definitions are especially important here.
How do insurers assess PTSD for income protection?
Insurers review your full medical history — when you were diagnosed, current treatment, stability of the condition, and any time off work it has caused. The more stable and well-managed your condition, the better the terms available.
What terms might be offered?
- Standard terms — if the condition is well-controlled with no recent absences from work
- Exclusion — ptsd and related conditions excluded, all other causes of inability to work still covered
- Rated premium — higher premium to reflect additional risk
- Postponement — if you are currently unwell or recently treated
What if I'm currently off work due to my condition?
If you are currently unable to work due to your condition, you are unlikely to get cover for that specific condition at this time. However, you may still be able to get cover with an exclusion — protecting you against all other causes of inability to work.
How much income protection do I need?
Aim for enough to cover your essential monthly outgoings — mortgage or rent, bills, food. Most policies replace 50–70% of gross income.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the insurer and severity. Some exclude ptsd-related claims; others offer standard terms if the condition is well-controlled. Always compare multiple insurers.
Yes — an exclusion only applies to the excluded condition. You're still fully covered for accidents, cancer, heart attack, and all other causes of inability to work.
Usually yes. Even with an exclusion, you're still protected against a huge range of causes of inability to work — accidents, other illnesses, and more.