Private Clients
Specified Illness Cover
Specified Illness Cover (also known as Serious Illness Cover or Critical Illness Cover) in Ireland is a type of insurance that pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a serious illness listed in your policy. This is designed to help cover medical costs, loss of income, or other financial burdens during recovery.
How It Works
If diagnosed with a covered illness, you receive a one-off lump sum payment.
The payout can be used for medical expenses, mortgage payments, living costs, or any other needs.
Coverage is available as a standalone policy or as an add-on to life insurance policies.
Common Illnesses Covered
Each insurer has a different list, but typical conditions include:
Cancer (excluding less advanced cases)
Heart attack
Stroke
Multiple sclerosis
Parkinsons disease
Organ transplant
Alzheimer’s disease
Kidney failure
Some policies also cover partial payouts for less severe conditions.
Who Needs It?
People with dependents who rely on their income.
Those who would struggle financially if unable to work.
Self-employed individuals without employer sick pay benefits.
Cost & Considerations
Premiums depend on age, health, smoking status, and coverage amount.
Some policies have waiting periods before a claim can be made.
A medical examination may be required before approval.