Term Insurance with Critical Illness Cover

Key Insights About Critical Illness Rider in Term Life Insurance

A Critical Illness Rider is an optional add-on to a term life insurance policy that provides financial support if you are diagnosed with a serious health condition. Here is a brief overview:

Feature Description
Plan Purpose It provides a lump-sum payout if the policyholder is diagnosed with a specified critical illness.
Common Covered Illnesses Cancer, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, ALS, and major organ transplants.
Payout A partial or complete lump sum is typically paid out upon diagnosis of a covered illness.
Premium Higher than regular term insurance due to added coverage.
Minimum Sum Assured ₹100,000
Maximum Sum Assured Capped at ₹25,00,000
Waiting Period Typically, it ranges from 30 to 90 days from the policy start date.
Survival Period The insured must survive for 30 days post-diagnosis.
Exclusion Pre-existing conditions or illnesses are not covered by the rider.
Cost It comes as an additional cost with term plan, and premiums are recalculated based on age and health condition.

What is Term Insurance with Critical Illness Rider?

Diseases Covered Under a Term Insurance Plan with Critical Illness Benefit

A critical illness rider provides coverage against a pre-defined list of critical diseases. Though IRDAI has defined a list of 50 critical illnesses, the illnesses covered may vary from insurer to insurer.

Some common critical illnesses covered in term insurance by most insurers include:

Diseases Covered Under Critical Illness
Angioplasty Benign Brain Tumour CiS / Early Stage Cancer Blindness
Small Bowel Transplant Deafness Brain Aneurysm Surgery or Cerebral Shunt Insertion End Stage Lung Failure
Severe Osteoporosis End Stage Liver Failure Cancer of Specified Severity Loss of Speech
Myocardial Infarction - First Heart Attack of Specific Severity Loss of Limbs Open Chest CABG Major Head Trauma
Open Heart Replacement or Heart Valves Reparation Primary Pulmonary Hypertension Coma of Specified Severity Third Degree Burns
Kidney Failure Requiring Regular Dialysis Alzheimer's Disease Stroke Resulting in Permanent Symptoms Parkinson's Disease
Major Organ /Bone Marrow Transplant Aorta Graft Surgery Permanent Paralysis of Limbs Amputation of Feet Due to Complications from Diabetes
Motor Neuron Disease with Permanent Symptoms Apallic Syndrome Multiple Sclerosis with Persisting Symptoms Aplastic Anaemia
Bacterial Meningitis Loss of One Limb and One Eye Brain Surgery Medullary Cystic Disease
Cardiomyopathy Muscular Dystrophy Chronic Adrenal Insufficiency - Addison's Disease Myasthenia Gravis
Chronic Relapsing Pancreatitis Myelofibrosis CJD - Creutzfeldt Jakob Disease Necrotising Fasciitis
Crohn's Disease Other Serious Coronary Artery Disease Dissecting Aortic Aneurysm Pheochromocytoma
Eisenmenger's Syndrome Poliomyelitis Elephantiasis Progressive Scleroderma
Encephalitis Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Fulminant Viral Hepatitis Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis
Hemiplegia Severe Ulcerative Colitis HIV due to Blood Transfusion/Occupationally Acquired HIV Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Lupus Nephritis
Infective Endocarditis Terminal Illness Loss of Independent Existence - Cover up to Age 74 Tuberculosis Meningitis

The exact list of illnesses covered may vary from one insurer to another, and some insurers may offer additional coverage for other critical illnesses. It is essential to carefully review the policy document to understand the list of illnesses covered and any exclusions that may apply.

How Does a Critical Illness Cover in Term Insurance Work?

Understanding Critical Illness Rider in Term Insurance Scenarios with Illustration

What are the Benefits of Term Insurance with Critical Illness Cover?

Critical illness insurance cover offers several benefits that can provide significant financial and emotional relief during challenging times. Here are some key benefits:

Financial Protection Against Critical Illness

A critical illness rider offers financial protection against a range of critical illnesses that may require expensive medical treatment. It provides a lump sum payment to help cover the costs of medical treatment, hospitalization, and other related expenses. Thus, it is an excellent option for individuals who want to ensure that they are protected against the financial impact of a critical illness.

Income Replacement

Being affected by a critical illness affects the individual’s ability to earn. Thus, it might be difficult for the dependent family to deal with financial requirements. In such a case, the extra payout from a critical illness rider, can serve as financial support after paying for the treatment of the illness.

Coverage for Medical Expenses

The critical illness rider covers a wide range of illnesses, as specified in the policy. With this rider in hand, expensive treatments can be afforded, and critical illnesses can be treated.

Flexibility

Critical illness riders are flexible and can be customized to suit your specific needs. You can choose the amount of coverage you need, the duration of the policy and can add it during the policy tenure, on any policy anniversary.

Affordable Premiums

Critical illness riders are relatively affordable, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals. The premiums are based on your age, health, and the amount of coverage you need. They can be added to your base plan with just a nominal additional premium.

Double Tax Benefit

When you buy term insurance with a critical illness cover, you get tax benefits under sections 80C and 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, 1961. Adding a critical illness rider to your term plan gives you extra tax benefits under Section 80D of the Income Tax, which means more tax savings.

Increase in Survival Chances

The cost of treating critical illnesses in India is high, and many people stop treatment halfway due to lack of funds. A critical illness rider ensures you have the money needed for treatment, so you don’t have to compromise on your health. This payout helps cover medical expenses, allowing you to focus on recovery without financial stress.

Lump Sum Benefit

Term Insurance with critical illness coverage offers financial protection not just in case of death but also in critical illness. In the event of a critical illness diagnosis, policyholders receive a one-time lump sum amount, providing much-needed financial support to cover medical expenses, treatment costs, and other financial obligations.

Quick Help When You Need It

Unlike other insurance policies, critical illness insurance starts helping you sooner after a diagnosis so you can get the care and financial support you need without a long wait.

Who Should Buy Term Insurance with Critical Illness Rider?

Things To Consider When Buying A Term Insurance With Critical Illness Cover

When considering a critical illness rider for your term insurance policy, it’s important to evaluate several key features:

Illnesses Covered

While major diseases are covered by most insurers, the list differs across plans and insurance providers. They have different coverage options. Choose the one that provides comprehensive coverage for the critical illnesses you will most likely face.

Premium Cost

Consider the extra cost of adding the critical illness rider to your term insurance. Compare the rider's benefits with the cost to see if it fits your budget and needs.

Consider Inflation

When deciding the coverage, consider the inflation rate. Ever-rising inflation pushes medical costs considerably every year.

Waiting Period

Most critical illness riders come with a waiting period, typically 90 days from the policy commencement date. Any diagnosis during this period is usually not covered. Understanding this feature is crucial for proper planning.

Survival Period

Insurance companies often specify a survival period (14 - 30 days) after diagnosis. The policyholder must survive this period to receive the benefit. This clause ensures the benefit serves its intended purpose of supporting treatment costs.

Premium Waiver

Some riders offer premium waiver benefits after a critical illness diagnosis, meaning you don’t need to pay further premiums while maintaining coverage.

Coverage Duration

Consider whether the rider coverage extends throughout the base policy term or has a different duration. Some riders might terminate at a certain age or after a claim.

Treatment Costs

Medical expenses and treatment costs keep rising every day. Critical illnesses are furthermore expensive. It is imperative to research the cost of treatment for significant diseases and accordingly plan your coverage. 

Coverage for the Recovery Period

Most critical illnesses require a lengthy recovery period. As a thumb rule, assume the recovery period as 5 years and get enough coverage to take care of your finances for that period.

Exclusions and Limitations in Term Insurance with Critical Illness Rider Cover

Steps to Claim a Critical Illness Cover in Term Insurance

Here are the five simple steps to claim critical illness in term insurance:

Step 1

Notify your insurance company within 30 days of being diagnosed with a critical illness.

Step 2

Provide medical documentation (medical reports, test results, and a statement from your doctor) to prove your diagnosis.

Step 3

Submit the claim form and medical records within 60-90 days.

Step 4

The insurance company will verify your documents and might ask for more information.

Step 5

Once everything is verified, you will receive the payment in a lump sum or staggered.

Documents Required to Claim Term Insurance with Critical Illness Rider

Here is a list of all the documents you would need to claim your term insurance with critical illness rider:

S. No Documents Required
1 Filled claims form
2 Original policy documents
3 Valid ID and address proof of the insured
4 All pre and post-hospitalization records
5 Medical test reports confirming the critical illness
6 Certificate from the attending medical practitioner
7 Cancelled cheque or bank statement of the insured

Tax Benefits of Term Insurance with Critical Illness Rider

How to Choose the Right Term Insurance Plan with Critical Illness Cover?

Choosing the perfect critical illness insurance plan involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets your needs. Here are some steps to guide you:

Sum Assured

When choosing a critical illness policy, make sure the sum assured is enough to cover medical treatment costs. This lump sum should also support your family, as critical illnesses often lead to loss of income during recovery.

Choice of Policy

If you have life insurance, you can add a critical illness rider to increase your coverage. This rider pays out a lump sum or a percentage of it, depending on the severity of the illness.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Review the inclusions and exclusions of any critical illness plan. Some stages of illnesses might not be covered, so it’s important to understand these details to avoid surprises.

Your Age

Critical illness insurance has age limits. The earlier you get it, the better your coverage and the lower your premiums. Early preparation ensures better protection against future health issues.

Waiting Period

These policies usually have a waiting period (around 6 months) before benefits can be claimed. This ensures coverage only for illnesses diagnosed after purchasing the policy.

Number of Illnesses Covered

Check the list of illnesses covered by the policy. Ensure it includes major illnesses and any specific conditions you are concerned about. This helps in choosing the right policy or rider for comprehensive coverage.

FAQs about Term Insurance with Critical Illness Cover

How does a term plan with critical illness cover work?

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A term plan with critical illness cover provides a lump sum payout if you’re diagnosed with a critical illness covered by the policy. This payout can be used for medical expenses, paying off debts, or other financial needs during recovery.

Should I take critical illness coverage with term insurance?

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Yes, taking critical illness coverage with term insurance can be beneficial. It provides additional financial protection against major diseases like heart attack, cancer, and kidney failure. This can be especially useful if you have a family history of such illnesses or want to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Why should you buy a critical illness term insurance instead of a stand-alone critical illness plan?

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Combining critical illness coverage with term insurance can be more cost-effective than buying separate policies. It simplifies insurance management and ensures life and critical illness coverage under one plan. Additionally, some insurers offer critical illness riders at a lower cost when added to a term plan.

What is the critical illness benefit of term insurance?

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The critical illness benefit in term insurance provides a lump sum payout upon diagnosing a covered critical illness. This benefit can cover treatment costs, household expenses, or other financial needs during your illness.

Is it worth getting critical illness insurance?

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Critical illness insurance can be worth it, especially if you have high out-of-pocket medical expenses or lack sufficient savings to cover unexpected medical bills. It offers a financial safety net, allowing you to focus on recovery without worrying about finances.

Can I claim twice for the same illness under the critical illness rider in term insurance?

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No. You can’t claim more than once under a critical illness rider. It pays the claim amount once and then terminates. However, you may consider buying a new critical illness rider after the first one is terminated.

Can the payout from a term insurance with critical illness rider be used for any purpose?

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While the primary purpose of a critical illness rider is to cover the treatment expenses related to a critical illness, the payout can be used for any purpose. The financial impact of a critical illness can be significant, and the payout from the rider can help ease the financial burden on the policyholder and their family. It can be used to cover medical expenses, repay loans, or any other expenses that may arise due to the illness, thus ensuring the financial stability of the family.

Do all term insurance policies come with a critical illness rider?

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No, critical illness rider is usually an add on that needs to be purchased separately over and above the base insurance plan.

How is a term insurance with a critical illness rider different from a regular health insurance policy?

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Unlike a regular health insurance policy, a critical illness rider provides a lump sum payout upon diagnosis of a critical illness. The payout can be used to cover medical expenses or any other expenses that may arise due to the illness.

What is the eligibility for buying term insurance with critical illness rider?

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For buying a critical illness rider, the eligibility depends on several factors and might also differ across insurers. However, the most common factors include: an age limit of 18-65 years and declaring the pre-existing conditions and lifestyle habits.

What are the documents required for a term insurance with a critical illness rider claim?

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Most commonly, the following documents are required to claim a critical illness rider:  

  • Claim intimation form 
  • Attending doctor’s certificate
  • Copy of all medical records
  • Original policy certificate
  • Cancelled Cheque

Does term insurance provide critical illness rider?

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Yes, you can add a critical illness rider to your term policy for a nominal premium.

How is the payout from term insurance with critical illness rider received by the beneficiary?

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After a successful claim settlement for term insurance with critical illness benefit, the beneficiary receives a lumpsum payout.

Can I buy a term insurance with critical illness rider once I'm diagnosed with a critical illness?

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No. A term insurance with critical illness benefit usually does not cover conditions for which a person is diagnosed within 2 years prior to purchasing the policy.

How does the term insurance with critical illness rider affect the policy’s sum assured and payout structure?

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A critical illness rider may either reduce the sum assured of your base policy upon payout or provide an additional lump sum payout. Some policies deduct the critical illness payout from the death benefit, while others offer standalone coverage, which doesn’t affect the original term insurance sum.

What are the exclusions or limitations in critical illness riders in term insurance?

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Critical illness riders often exclude pre-existing conditions, certain types of cancer (such as early-stage), illnesses due to self-inflicted injuries, and conditions that arise within a waiting period. Additionally, some policies may limit the number of claims or apply age limits.

How do waiting periods and survival periods impact the effectiveness of a term insurance with critical illness rider?

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Most critical illness riders have a waiting period (e.g., 30-90 days after policy issuance) and a survival period (e.g., the insured must survive for a certain number of days after diagnosis, typically 14-30 days). Understanding these periods is crucial for assessing when benefits become available.

Can I customize the illnesses covered in a term insurance with critical illness rider, and how does that impact premiums?

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Some insurers allow customization by choosing which illnesses are covered from a list, which directly impacts premiums. Comprehensive riders that cover a wide range of illnesses (e.g., cancer, heart disease, stroke, organ transplants) are typically more expensive than riders that cover only a few key conditions.

How does the term insurance with critical illness rider differ in its benefits from a standalone critical illness policy?

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A critical illness rider is an add-on to term insurance and typically provides a lower sum assured, whereas a standalone policy may offer broader coverage options, higher payout limits, and more flexibility in terms of policy structure and premium payment.

How does age or health condition at the time of purchase impact the pricing of a critical illness rider in term insurance?

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Premiums for a critical illness rider in term insurance are higher for older individuals or those with existing health conditions. In some cases, insurers may deny adding the rider if you’re above a certain age or have significant risk factors like family history of certain illnesses or lifestyle-related conditions (e.g., smoking, obesity).

What are the tax implications of receiving a payout from a critical illness rider in term insurance?

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In many jurisdictions, critical illness payouts are tax-free since they are considered a benefit rather than income. However, policyholders should check the local tax laws, as tax treatment may vary depending on the structure of the policy and the use of the benefit.

Disclaimer

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  • This is an informative article provided on 'as is' basis for awareness purpose only and not intended as a professional advice. The content of the article is derived from various open sources across the Internet. Digit Life Insurance is not promoting or recommending any aspect in the article or its correctness. Please verify the information and your requirement before taking any decisions.
  • All the figures reflected in the article are for illustrative purposes. The premium for Coverage that one buys depends on various factors including customer requirements, eligibility, age, demography, insurance provider, product, coverage amount, term and other factors
  • Tax Benefits, if applicable depend on the Tax Regime opted by the individual and the applicable tax provision. Please consult your Tax consultant before making any decision.

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