Can I get income protection with Type 1 Diabetes?
Income protection is available for many people with Type 1 diabetes. Insurers assess HbA1c control, complication history, and time off work. Some insurers will offer cover with a diabetic complications exclusion; others offer standard terms for well-controlled cases. If you have had significant time off work due to diabetes, a postponement period may apply.
How do insurers assess Type 1 Diabetes 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 — type 1 diabetes 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 type 1 diabetes-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.