Accident-only income protection insurance is a type of insurance policy designed to provide financial support to policyholders if they are unable to work due to injuries sustained in an accident. Unlike comprehensive income protection insurance, which covers a wide range of illnesses and injuries, accident-only policies are specifically limited to incidents resulting from accidental events.
Key Features
Coverage Scope: Accident-only income protection insurance covers a policyholder's income in the event they are unable to work due to an accident. This can include various types of accidents, such as car crashes, slips and falls, or injuries sustained while engaging in recreational activities.
Benefit Payments: The insurance typically pays a percentage of the policyholder's income, often ranging from 50% to 70%, for a specified period during which they are unable to work. These payments can help cover essential living expenses, such as mortgage or rent, utility bills, and daily living costs.
Policy Limits: Policies often come with specific limits on the duration of benefit payments, commonly up to one or two years. There may also be a waiting period, typically between 14 to 90 days, before benefit payments commence.
Cost and Accessibility: Accident-only income protection insurance is usually more affordable than comprehensive income protection policies. This is because it covers a narrower range of circumstances. It's particularly appealing to individuals seeking financial protection at a lower cost or those in higher-risk jobs where accidents are more likely.
Exclusions: Policies generally exclude coverage for illnesses, self-inflicted injuries, or accidents resulting from high-risk activities not explicitly covered in the policy.
Considerations
When choosing an accident-only income protection insurance policy, it's crucial to carefully read the terms and conditions to understand what is covered and what is excluded. This insurance can be a valuable safety net for those whose primary concern is the financial impact of accidents rather than a broad range of health issues. However, for more comprehensive coverage, individuals might consider more inclusive income protection policies that cover both accidents and illnesses.