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Writer's pictureKaren Doyle

Income Protection Options in Ireland in 2023

If you can't work in Ireland due to accident illness or injury the government will pay you €220 per week. This represents a big drop in income for most people. If you're lucky work will pay you for a short amount or time and if you're even luckier you already have income protection through a work benefits package. If you're not one of these 'lucky people' you should look at putting this insurance in place. If you're self employed its even more important because you're not even entitled to the above mentioned €220 per week.


We are experts in finding the right option that fits your budget making sure you walk away feeling protected and that you have got the best option available for you.


Here are 3 options that we offer our clients when it comes to protecting their income:

  1. Income Protection Insurance: This type of insurance provides a regular income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. The insurance doesn't kick in immediately; instead you choose a waiting period (called the deferred period) usually 4, 8, 13, 26 or 52 weeks. The shorter the deferred period the higher you will pay for the cover. Once you're still out of work after that period your insurance will start paying you an income. It typically pays out until you can return to work, retire, or the end of the policy term, whichever comes first. The average income protection claim lasts 7 years, but they have been known to pay for over 30 years. You choose the monthly income; the maximum it can be is 75% of your gross pay less the state illness benefit. The most common reason for claims on Income Protection insurance are mental health issues (stress, anxiety, depression) and back problems

  2. Serious Illness Cover: Also known as Critical Illness Cover, this policy pays out a tax-free lump sum if you're diagnosed with a specified illness listed in the policy, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke. It's meant to cover medical expenses or lifestyle adjustments during recovery which usually involves taking alot of time off work, time that may result in you being out of pocket.

  3. Hive's Lifestyle Protector Plan: This innovative plan in Ireland combines elements of income protection, serious illness cover, and additional benefits tailored to suit individual lifestyles. It offers a comprehensive package to protect against both income loss and critical illness. It pays a monthly income for up to 12 months making it less inferior to full income protection but could be a fraction of the cost depending on your occupation. This plan does not require medical underwriting so acceptance is automatic as opposed to options one and two which will be subject to answering medical questions.

When considering income protection options, it's crucial to assess factors coverage duration, waiting periods before benefits kick in, the range of illnesses covered, monthly payouts, and the overall suitability of the plan to your specific circumstances. Our advisors can take you through the different options available and the cost. Fill out our contact form or call 021-4858400 if you wish to discuss further.


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