Life is unpredictable, and we never know when a critical illness can strike us. Being diagnosed with a severe illness such as cancer, heart attack or stroke can disrupt our lives and affect us both physically and financially. It can be a daunting experience to deal with soaring medical bills and the inability to work. This is where critical illness insurance comes into the picture. In this article, we will discuss what critical illness insurance is and why it is essential for you.
What is Critical Illness Insurance?
Critical Illness Insurance, also known as Critical Illness Cover or Critical Illness Benefit, is a type of insurance policy that pays out a tax-free lump sum amount if you are diagnosed with a critical illness. It provides you with a financial buffer to help you cover your medical expenses, pay off your debts or mortgage and maintain your standard of living if you are unable to work.
Unlike health insurance or disability insurance, which pays for ongoing medical expenses or lost income respectively, critical illness Insurance provides a one-time payment in case of a specific medical condition that is covered in the policy. The money can be used however you wish, be it to support your family or pay for alternative treatments that may not be covered under your health insurance.
Why is Critical Illness Insurance Important?
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 1.8 million new cancer cases are diagnosed in the US each year. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, responsible for around 1 in every 4 deaths. The statistics may seem alarming, but the reality is that critical illnesses can affect anyone, irrespective of age, gender or lifestyle.
While health insurance may cover a significant portion of your medical bills, there are always out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles, copayments and non-covered treatments that can add up quickly. Moreover, the cost of treatment is not the only financial burden you may face if you are diagnosed with a critical illness. You may have to take unpaid leave from work to recover, which could impact your financial stability and ability to pay your bills. Critical illness insurance can help you mitigate these financial impacts and ease your stress during an already emotionally draining time.
What Does Critical Illness Insurance Cover?
The coverage provided by the critical illness insurance policy may vary from insurer to insurer. However, the most common critical illnesses covered by the policy include cancer, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, major organ transplant, and paralysis. Other illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and blindness, may also be included in some policies.
It is essential to read and understand the policy’s terms and conditions carefully before purchasing it to ensure you know what the policy covers and what it doesn’t. The policy may come with certain exclusions, such as pre-existing conditions, that may make you ineligible for the payout. Knowing what you are signing up for can help you make an informed decision and avoid any unpleasant surprises later.
How Much Does Critical Illness Insurance Cost?
The cost of critical illness insurance may vary depending on various factors such as your age, gender, health condition, lifestyle habits, and the level of coverage you choose. The younger you are, the lower the premium you will have to pay. Moreover, if you are a non-smoker and lead a healthy lifestyle, you may be eligible for a lower premium rate.
The critical illness insurance policy’s cost also depends on the coverage amount and the length of the policy. The higher the payout amount and the longer the policy duration, the higher the premium rate. It is advisable to compare quotes from several insurers before deciding on the policy to ensure that you get the best coverage at a reasonable price.
How to Choose the Right Critical Illness Insurance Policy?
Choosing the right critical illness policy can be overwhelming, given the numerous options available in the market. Here are some factors to consider while selecting a policy:
1. Coverage Amount
Consider the amount of coverage you need to cover your medical expenses, debts, and maintain your lifestyle during your illness. Choose the coverage amount that suits your needs and budget.
2. Policy Duration
You should consider how long you want the policy to last. You may want to choose a policy that covers your expected working years and your family’s needs during that period.
3. Cost
Compare the quotes from several insurers to ensure that you get comprehensive coverage at a reasonable price. Consider the premium amount, the payout amount, and the length of the policy while comparing quotes.
4. Coverage Limitations
Read the policy’s terms and conditions carefully to ensure you understand what the policy covers and what it doesn’t. Be aware of any exclusions or limitations that may prevent you from receiving the payout.
5. Reputation of the Insurer
Choose an insurer with a good reputation in the market, with a proven track record of handling critical illness claims efficiently and transparently. Check online reviews and ratings of the insurer before making the decision.
Critical Illness Insurance FAQ
1. Who is eligible for Critical Illness Insurance?
Anyone between the ages of 18 and 65 can opt for critical illness insurance. However, the eligibility criteria may vary depending on the insurer and the type of policy.
2. How long does it take to receive the payout from the policy?
The critical illness policy’s terms specify the waiting period between the diagnosis of the critical illness and the payout. Generally, the waiting period is between 30-90 days, depending on the policy. Once the waiting period is over, the insured can receive the payout amount.
3. Can I claim the policy payout more than once?
No, most critical illness policies provide benefits only for the first claim. Once the payout has been made for one critical illness, the policy is terminated.
4. Does the policy payout amount vary depending on the severity of the critical illness?
No, the payout amount remains the same, regardless of the severity of the critical illness. The policy payout is made once the policy’s terms and conditions have been met, irrespective of the illness’s severity.
5. Is critical illness insurance tax-deductible?
No, critical illness insurance premiums are not tax-deductible, nor are the payouts taxable income. The payout amount is tax-free and can be used as per the insured’s discretion.
Conclusion
Critical Illness Insurance is a crucial safety net that can protect you and your family during a challenging time. It can provide you with the financial support you need to access the best possible medical care and maintain your lifestyle during your illness. It is essential to choose the right policy, considering your needs and budget, and the credibility of the insurer. With the right policy in hand, you can have peace of mind, knowing you are covered in case of a critical illness.