Understand your choices
Most people think of life insurance as something that protects their loved ones financially if they pass away.
While that’s true, life insurance also includes other types of cover that can help to financially support a family in the event of illness or injury.
A financial adviser will help you choose the types of cover and the level of protection that best meets your family’s financial needs. But in the meantime, here’s a brief overview of the different cover types that life insurance can include.
Life Cover
Life cover provides your loved ones with a lump sum payment should you pass away or be diagnosed with a terminal illness. This money can be used to pay off debts such as a mortgage, cover daily living expenses or be saved for future needs such as school fees.
Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Cover
TPD cover pays you a lump sum payment if you’re permanently unable to work again because of illness or injury. It can help you pay off debts and cover medical or other costs, so your family can retain their lifestyle even if you can no longer earn an income.
Critical Illness Cover
Critical illness cover pays you a lump sum payment to help support you and your loved ones while you recover from serious illness such as cancer, heart attack or stroke. While medical treatments for serious illness are continually advancing, it may be months or years before you’re able to return to work. The money paid can therefore be used for any purpose; whether it’s to seek specialised medical treatment, reduce debts or make necessary lifestyle changes.
Child Cover
While it’s not something any parent wants to think about, sometimes the worst can happen to our children as well. Child cover pays you a lump sum payment if your child passes away, suffers a critical illness or is diagnosed as terminally ill. This money can used to cover medical expenses or enable you to take time off to be with your child or, if the worst happens, time to grieve.
Income Support Cover
Income Support Cover replaces up to 70% of your income if you’re unable to work because of illness or injury. It can help ensure you can afford to pay daily living expenses and debt repayments, long after your sick leave and savings have been exhausted.