Category Archives: Advice

For many aspiring homeowners, getting onto the property ladder can feel increasingly difficult. Rising living costs, deposit worries and uncertainty around mortgage affordability often leave buyers assuming homeownership is simply out of reach.

However, recent research suggests that many first-time buyers could be ruling themselves out too early. 

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we regularly speak to people across Manchester and across the North West who are surprised to discover there may be more mortgage options available to them than they originally thought.

Many buyers have never spoken to a mortgage broker

Research from the Building Societies Association (BSA) found that nearly half of people hoping to buy their first home have never spoken to a lender or mortgage broker about their options.

This means many prospective buyers may not fully understand:

• What mortgage products are available
• How much they may be able to borrow
• Whether schemes or specialist products could help
• What deposit options exist
• How lenders assess affordability

The research also found that even people who had explored their mortgage options previously may not have up-to-date information, with many not reviewing the market within the last 12 months.

The mortgage market changes regularly

Mortgage products, lending criteria and interest rates can change frequently.

As a result, someone who may not have qualified for a mortgage previously could find that their options look very different today.

This is particularly relevant for:

• First-time buyers
• Self-employed applicants
• Buyers with smaller deposits
• People with variable income
• Buyers using gifted deposits or family support

As mortgage advisors in Manchester, we often find that many buyers underestimate what may be possible until they begin exploring the market properly.

Could you buy sooner than you think?

According to the BSA research, when potential buyers were shown mortgage options requiring little or no deposit, around two thirds said they may be able to buy a home sooner than expected.

This highlights an important point: assumptions around buying a home are not always accurate.

Many people delay speaking to a mortgage broker in Manchester because they assume:

• They need a much larger deposit
• Their income is too low
• Their credit history will stop them
• Mortgage repayments will be unaffordable
• They are not yet in a strong enough position

While affordability remains an important consideration, exploring your options can often provide greater clarity around what may or may not be achievable.

Affordability and deposits remain key concerns

The research showed that affordability remains one of the biggest barriers to homeownership, with 64% of respondents identifying this as a challenge.

Saving for a deposit also continues to be difficult for many aspiring buyers:

• 53% said deposit saving was a major obstacle
• 59% had less than £10,000 saved

Unsurprisingly, these financial pressures can lead many people to feel discouraged about buying altogether.

However, the research suggests that many hopeful homeowners may benefit from having a clearer understanding of the options potentially available to them before assuming homeownership is out of reach.

Why speaking to a mortgage broker can help

A conversation with a mortgage advisor does not automatically mean you are committing to buying a property immediately.

For many buyers, it is simply about understanding:

• What may be possible
• What lenders are currently offering
• What steps could improve future affordability
• How much deposit may realistically be needed
• Whether there are products suited to their circumstances

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we help buyers across Manchester, Rawtenstall, Burnley, Accrington and the wider North West better understand the mortgage process in a straightforward and jargon-free way.

The importance of up-to-date mortgage information

One of the key findings from the research is that outdated assumptions can sometimes stop buyers from exploring opportunities that may now exist.

Mortgage lending criteria can evolve over time and new products regularly enter the market.

This means buyers who:

• Were declined previously
• Thought their deposit was too small
• Believed they needed to wait longer
• Assumed affordability would be an issue

may find that their situation looks different today.

Of course, every lender and mortgage application is assessed individually and approval is never guaranteed.

Mortgage advisors in Manchester supporting first-time buyers

As mortgage advisors in Manchester, Gordon Anthony Mortgages works with first-time buyers looking for clear and personalised support throughout the homebuying journey.

Whether you are simply exploring your options or actively preparing to buy, understanding the current mortgage market can help you make more informed decisions.

Frequently asked questions about first-time buyer mortgages

Do first-time buyers always need a large deposit?

Not necessarily. Deposit requirements vary between lenders and mortgage products, although a larger deposit can sometimes provide access to more competitive rates.

Can I get a mortgage with less than 10% deposit?

Some lenders do offer products for buyers with smaller deposits, subject to eligibility and affordability checks.

Is it worth speaking to a mortgage broker before house hunting?

Many buyers find it helpful to understand their potential borrowing position before beginning their property search.

Can mortgage products change quickly?

Yes. Mortgage rates, lender criteria and available products can change regularly depending on market conditions.

What if I was declined for a mortgage previously?

Being declined previously does not always mean future applications will be unsuccessful. Circumstances, lender criteria and available products may change over time.

Here to help

If you are looking for a mortgage broker in Manchester or want to better understand your first-time buyer options, Gordon Anthony Mortgages is here to help.

We support buyers across Manchester and the North West with clear, straightforward mortgage guidance tailored to individual circumstances.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Sources

• Building Societies Association – Think again! First-time buyers could be much closer to owning a home than they realise
• MoneyAge – 47% of aspiring buyers have never spoken to mortgage broker, study finds

Life can change unexpectedly, which is why many people choose to put financial protection in place for themselves and their families.

Whether it is helping protect loved ones financially, supporting mortgage repayments or providing a safety net if illness prevents you from working, the right protection cover can offer valuable peace of mind.

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we help clients across Manchester and the North West better understand the different types of protection available and how policies may support their individual circumstances.

Protection needs are different for everyone

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to protection insurance.

The level and type of cover someone may require will depend on a range of personal factors including family circumstances, mortgage commitments, income, employment status, existing savings and future plans. As mortgage advisors in Manchester, we often find that people are unsure where to begin when exploring protection options, particularly if they are buying a home for the first time or starting a family.

Understanding different types of protection cover

There are several different forms of protection insurance available, each designed to support different needs and circumstances.

These may include:

• Life insurance
• Income protection insurance
• Critical illness cover
• Family income benefit

Each policy works differently and will have its own terms, conditions and exclusions.

Why life insurance is often important for families

For many homeowners and parents, life insurance forms an important part of financial planning.

Life insurance can help provide financial support to loved ones in the event of death, helping families manage ongoing financial commitments such as mortgage repayments, household bills, childcare costs and everyday living expenses. Many people find reassurance in knowing that their partner or children could have financial support in place if the unexpected were to happen.

Income protection can help provide a financial safety net

For people who rely heavily on their monthly income, income protection insurance may also be an important consideration.

Income protection insurance is designed to provide regular monthly payments if you are unable to work due to illness or injury, subject to policy terms and conditions.

This type of cover can be particularly relevant for:

• Self-employed workers
• Contractors
• Business owners
• Sole earners
• People without substantial savings

As a mortgage broker in Manchester, we regularly speak to clients who are surprised by how little financial support may be available if they were unable to work for a prolonged period.

Balancing protection with affordability

The cost of protection cover will vary depending on several factors, including age, health, smoking status, occupation, policy term and the level of cover selected.

For many people, affordability is naturally an important consideration. If budget is a concern, it can be helpful to focus first on the areas of life that could create the greatest financial impact if circumstances changed unexpectedly.

For example, families may prioritise life insurance to help protect loved ones financially, while self-employed individuals may focus more on income protection. Homeowners may also wish to ensure mortgage commitments are considered as part of their wider financial planning.

The most suitable option will always depend on individual circumstances.

“Many people only start thinking about protection after a major life event like buying a home or starting a family. The important thing is understanding what financial support could look like if circumstances suddenly changed and making sure your cover reflects your own situation.”
— Jack Cunningham, Director, Gordon Anthony Mortgages

Why reviewing your protection regularly matters

Protection needs rarely stay the same forever.

Major life events can all affect the type and level of cover someone may wish to have in place, including:

• Buying a home
• Getting married
• Having children
• Changing jobs
• Becoming self-employed
• Moving house
• Taking on larger financial commitments

Reviewing protection policies regularly can help ensure cover continues to reflect current needs and circumstances.

Mortgage advisors in Manchester helping you understand your options

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we help clients across Manchester, Rawtenstall, Burnley, Accrington and the wider North West explore mortgage and protection options in a clear and straightforward way.

As mortgage advisors in Manchester, we can help explain the different types of cover available and help you better understand how protection policies work alongside your mortgage and financial commitments.

Frequently asked questions about protection insurance

What types of protection insurance are available?

Common types of protection insurance include life insurance, income protection insurance and critical illness cover.

Do I need life insurance if I have a mortgage?

Many homeowners choose to consider life insurance to help protect mortgage repayments and provide financial support for loved ones, although individual needs will vary.

What does income protection insurance cover?

Income protection insurance is designed to provide regular monthly payments if you are unable to work due to illness or injury, subject to policy terms and exclusions.

Does protection insurance cover everyone automatically?

No. Eligibility, premiums and cover levels will depend on personal circumstances, medical history and insurer criteria.

Should protection policies be reviewed regularly?

Many people choose to review their protection arrangements regularly, particularly after significant life or financial changes.

Here to help

If you are looking for a mortgage broker in Manchester or would like to better understand your protection options, Gordon Anthony Mortgages is here to help.

We support clients across Manchester and the North West with clear, straightforward guidance around mortgages and protection policies.

As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

For many self-employed people, flexibility and independence are some of the biggest advantages of running your own business. Being your own boss and working on your own terms can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with additional financial responsibilities and fewer safety nets if something unexpected happens.

Unlike employed workers, self-employed people are not entitled to Statutory Sick Pay. If illness or injury stops you from working, your income could stop too.

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we regularly speak to business owners, contractors and self-employed professionals looking to better understand how protection policies work and what options may be available to them.

Why many self-employed people continue working when unwell

Research has found that self-employed people take significantly fewer sick days than employed workers, often because of concerns around lost income and financial pressure.

While this is understandable, continuing to work through illness or injury can sometimes have a longer-term impact on both your health and your business.

Having suitable protection in place can provide financial support if you are unable to work, helping reduce some of the pressure during difficult periods.

What is income protection insurance?

Income protection insurance is designed to provide a portion of your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury.

Policies will typically pay between 50% and 70% of your income in regular monthly payments. Payments can continue until you are able to return to work, retire, or reach the end of the policy term, depending on the cover selected and policy conditions.

Unlike critical illness cover, which usually pays a one-off lump sum for specified serious illnesses, income protection can cover a wider range of medical conditions, including both physical and mental health conditions. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply.

Why income protection can be particularly important for self-employed workers

If you are self-employed, your income may depend entirely on your ability to work.

This can affect:

• Mortgage payments
• Household bills
• Business expenses
• Rent or office costs
• Family finances
• Existing financial commitments

Income protection can help provide ongoing financial support during periods where you may be unable to earn as normal due to illness or injury.

Understanding the deferred period

When arranging income protection insurance, one of the key considerations is the deferred period. This is the amount of time between stopping work and when benefit payments would begin.

Because self-employed individuals do not receive Statutory Sick Pay, some people may choose a shorter deferred period to access support sooner. However, shorter deferred periods can often result in higher premiums.

The right option will depend on your personal circumstances, savings and how long you could comfortably manage without regular income.

Your occupation can affect your cover

The type of work you do can influence the level of cover available and the cost of premiums.

For example, occupations involving physical labour, working at height or operating machinery may be viewed differently by insurers compared with office-based professions.

When applying for cover, insurers will usually ask detailed questions about:

• Your occupation
• Working environment
• Duties and responsibilities
• Income
• Medical history

It is important that all information provided is accurate and complete, as incorrect information could affect future claims or invalidate a policy.

What about limited company directors?

If you are a director of your own limited company, executive income protection may also be worth exploring.

Executive income protection policies are typically arranged through the business and can provide cover for directors or employees in the event of illness or injury.

This can be a tax-efficient way for some businesses to arrange protection, although suitability will depend on individual circumstances and professional advice should always be sought.

Income protection and pre-existing medical conditions

Some insurers may place exclusions on pre-existing medical conditions, while others may offer cover with adjusted terms.

This will vary depending on:

• The condition
• Your medical history
• Current treatment
• Time since diagnosis
• Individual insurer criteria

Understanding exactly what is and is not covered is an important part of reviewing any protection policy.

Mortgage advisors in Manchester helping you understand your options

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we help clients across Manchester, Rawtenstall, Burnley, Accrington and the wider North West understand the protection options available alongside their mortgage and financial commitments. As mortgage advisors in Manchester, we can help explain how income protection works, answer your questions and help you explore policies that may suit your circumstances.

Frequently asked questions about income protection for self-employed people

Can self-employed people get income protection insurance?

Yes, many insurers offer income protection policies for self-employed workers, contractors and company directors, subject to eligibility and underwriting.

How much does income protection pay?

Policies typically provide between 50% and 70% of your income, although this varies depending on the insurer and policy selected.

Does income protection cover mental health?

Many policies can include cover for mental health conditions as well as physical illness or injury, subject to policy terms and exclusions.

Is income protection the same as critical illness cover?

No. Critical illness cover usually pays a lump sum for specified serious illnesses, whereas income protection is designed to provide regular monthly payments if you are unable to work.

Can directors of limited companies get income protection?

Some limited company directors may be eligible for executive income protection policies arranged through their business.

Here to help

If you are self-employed and would like to better understand your protection options, Gordon Anthony Mortgages is here to help.

Whether you are looking for a mortgage broker in Manchester or want to explore income protection alongside your mortgage arrangements, our team can help explain your options in a clear and straightforward way.As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

The cost of this insurance depends on several factors, such as your age, where you live and your occupation. As a result, the cost you will pay is based on your own circumstances

When arranging a mortgage, most people focus on rates, deposits and affordability. But there is a more important question sitting behind it all. What would happen to your home if your income stopped?

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we believe mortgage advice is about more than securing the right deal. It is about helping you protect your financial stability for the long term. Income protection plays an important role in that conversation.

As experienced mortgage advisors in Manchester including clients looking for mortgage services in Burnley, Rawtenstall, Accrington and surrounding areas, we regularly see how income protection is overlooked, particularly by self-employed clients and growing families.

In this blog, we break it down clearly so you end up with a clear understanding of what income protection is, and how it can help. 

What is income protection?

Income protection insurance, sometimes referred to as permanent health insurance, is designed to provide a portion of your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury.

Unlike critical illness cover, which provides a one-off lump sum, income protection pays regular monthly payments. These payments are designed to help cover essential living expenses such as your mortgage, rent, bills and daily living costs. Payments continue until you are able to return to work, retire or reach the end of the policy term, whichever comes first.

Income protection can cover a wide range of medical conditions, from mental health issues such as depression to long-term illnesses or physical injuries. The aim is to protect your financial stability if you are unable to earn for an extended period.

For homeowners, business owners and employed professionals alike, that stability can make a significant difference.

Do you need income protection?

Whether income protection is right for you depends on your personal situation and financial safety net.

If you were unable to work for several months, would your savings comfortably cover your mortgage and essential outgoings? Does your employer offer a sick pay scheme, and if so, how long would it last and would it cover all your monthly commitments?

For those who are self-employed, contractors or company directors, the question is often more direct. If you are not working, are you still earning?

If you are the only earner in your household, or you have dependents relying on your income to keep a roof over their heads and maintain day-to-day living costs, the financial impact of illness or injury can be significant.

As part of our mortgage advice in Manchester and across the North West, we discuss protection alongside borrowing, so your home is supported by a wider financial safety net.

How much cover do you need?

The amount of cover required depends on your financial commitments and the level of income you want to replace. Typically, income protection policies cover between 50 and 70 percent of your monthly pre-tax income.

When assessing the right level of cover, it is important to consider your essential living expenses, including mortgage payments, utility bills, food and travel costs. Any employer sick pay or state benefits you may receive should also be taken into account, as these can reduce the amount of cover required.

Dependants and long-term financial commitments also play a role. The objective is to ensure you have enough protection to maintain financial stability, without over-insuring and paying more in premiums than necessary.

Jack Cunningham, Business Principal, Mortgage & Protection Advisor at Gordon Anthony Mortgages explains:

“When we arrange a mortgage, we are not just looking at what you can afford today. We are looking at how sustainable that mortgage is if life changes. Protecting your income is often the piece people forget, but it is one of the most important.”

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, that long-term thinking drives our advice across the board, supporting clients who need mortgage advisors in Manchester, Burnley, Accrington, Rawtenstall and the surrounding areas.

Why mortgage advisors in Manchester and across the UK recommend protecting your income 

As mortgage advisors in Manchester, we see first-hand how closely income and mortgage commitments are linked. Securing the right deal is important, but ensuring that mortgage remains affordable if circumstances change is equally vital.

When working with a mortgage broker in Manchester, income protection should form part of a wider conversation about financial resilience. It is not an add-on. It is a safeguard.

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we look beyond interest rates. We consider sustainability. That means understanding how your mortgage would be supported if illness or injury prevented you from working.

What affects the cost?

Several factors influence the cost of income protection insurance.

Your age and health are key considerations, as younger applicants typically pay lower premiums and medical history can affect pricing or exclusions. Your occupation also matters. Policies that cover you if you are unable to perform your specific job, known as own occupation cover, generally provide more comprehensive protection but may cost more than policies that only pay out if you are unable to perform any occupation.

The deferred period, sometimes called the waiting period, is another important factor. This is the length of time between becoming unable to work and when the policy begins to pay out. Deferred periods can range from around four weeks to twelve months. A shorter waiting period means payments begin sooner but premiums are usually higher. A longer deferred period can reduce the cost but requires you to manage financially for longer before support begins.

You may also choose index-linked cover, which increases your benefit in line with inflation to help maintain its value over time. Policies can be arranged with guaranteed premiums, which remain the same throughout the term, or reviewable premiums, which may change over time.

The length of the policy term will also influence cost. Short-term policies typically pay out for a limited period, often one to two years. Long-term policies continue until you return to work, retire or reach a specified age, commonly 65 or 70, and provide more comprehensive protection.

Reviewing your cover regularly

Life changes, and so do your financial needs. It is important to review your income protection policy regularly to ensure it continues to provide adequate cover.

A salary increase, change in employment, becoming self-employed, starting a family or taking on additional financial commitments may all mean your existing cover needs adjusting. Over time, inflation can also reduce the real value of your protection if it is not reviewed.

As part of our ongoing service, we encourage clients to revisit protection arrangements to ensure they remain appropriate and cost-effective.

Speak to a mortgage broker in Manchester about income protection

Securing the right mortgage deal is an important step. Protecting the income that supports it is just as important.

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we provide mortgage advice in Accrington, Rawtenstall, Burnley and surrounding areas, as well as supporting clients looking for mortgage advisors in Manchester and across the North West. Our approach is clear, tailored advice, straightforward explanations and long-term support.

If you would like to review your protection arrangements or explore income protection as part of your mortgage planning, speak to our team today.

We are here to help you protect more than just the rate.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. The cost of this insurance depends on several factors, such as your age, where you live and your occupation. As a result, the cost you will pay is based on your own circumstances. 

Frequently asked questions about income protection

How much income protection can I take out?

Most income protection policies cover between 50 and 70 percent of your gross monthly income. The exact amount depends on your earnings, employment status and insurer criteria.

When does income protection start paying out?

This depends on the deferred period you choose. Payments can begin after a waiting period of around four weeks up to twelve months. The longer the deferred period, the lower the premium is typically.

Is income protection worth it if I have sick pay?

Employer sick pay can provide short-term support, but it often has a time limit. Income protection can provide longer-term financial stability if you are unable to return to work for an extended period.

Does income protection cover mental health conditions?

Many policies cover a wide range of medical conditions, including mental health issues such as depression, subject to policy terms and underwriting.

Important information

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this document is based on our current understanding and can be subject to change without notice. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK. We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions it might contain.

Your mortgage protects your home. Family protection protects the people who live in it.

When clients come to us for mortgage advice, the focus is usually on rates and affordability. But once the keys are in hand, another question becomes just as important.

If something happened to you, would your family be financially secure? At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we believe responsible mortgage planning includes protecting the income and lives behind it. Family protection is not about fear. It is about preparation.

As mortgage advisors in Manchester and across the North West, including Burnley, Rawtenstall and Accrington, we help families put structured protection in place alongside their mortgage.

What is family protection?

Family protection typically includes:

• Life insurance
• Critical illness cover
• Income protection

These policies are designed to prevent financial hardship if a main earner dies, becomes seriously ill or is unable to work.

A payout may come as a lump sum or as a regular monthly income. In both cases, the purpose is to help cover essential commitments such as mortgage payments, household bills and ongoing living costs.

Each policy serves a different role. Together, they create a practical financial safety net.

Why mortgage advisors in Manchester and across the UK raise protection early

As mortgage advisors in Manchester and surrounding areas,  we see how closely income and mortgage commitments are linked. When working with a mortgage broker in Manchester, the conversation should not stop at what is affordable today. It should also consider whether that mortgage remains sustainable if circumstances change.

For many families, the mortgage is their largest financial commitment. Without protection in place, illness or bereavement can create significant pressure at an already difficult time.

That is why protection forms part of our advice process.

Life insurance, protecting your family if you are no longer here

Life insurance pays a lump sum if the policyholder dies unexpectedly or prematurely. While it can be uncomfortable to consider, planning ahead ensures your family is not left facing financial uncertainty.

Life insurance can help:

• Repay the mortgage
• Cover funeral costs
• Maintain household income
• Safeguard long-term financial plans

As Jack Cunningham, Business Principal, Mortgage & Protection Advisor at Gordon Anthony Mortgages, explains:

“When someone takes on a mortgage, they are committing to their family’s future. Protection is about making sure that commitment can still be honoured, even if life takes an unexpected turn.”

That long-term thinking underpins our advice.

Critical illness cover, financial support during serious illness

Critical illness cover pays a lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specified condition, commonly including cancer, heart attack or stroke.

The payout can help reduce or clear a mortgage, replace income during recovery or provide financial breathing space while you focus on your health.

Policies span a wide range of conditions and can be tailored to your circumstances. In addition to severe illnesses, some cover includes earlier-stage conditions to provide support sooner.

Income protection, replacing earnings if you cannot work

Income protection supports you if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. It pays a monthly income, typically between half and two thirds of your gross annual salary, depending on the policy.

Unlike life insurance, which pays out on death, income protection replaces lost earnings while you are still living but unable to work.

For clients seeking mortgage advice in Manchester and across the North West, particularly self-employed professionals and business owners, this can be one of the most important forms of protection.

Why arranging protection early matters

Premiums are largely based on age and health. The earlier you arrange cover, the more likely you are to benefit from lower premiums and fewer exclusions.

Waiting can mean higher monthly costs and reduced flexibility if health changes occur. Protection should not be reactive. It should be proactive.

Estate planning and writing policies in trust

Life insurance can also play a role in estate planning. Proceeds may help meet immediate costs such as Inheritance Tax, funeral expenses or debts, allowing loved ones to retain long-term assets.Writing a policy in trust can help ensure funds are passed to beneficiaries efficiently. A trust is a legal arrangement where trustees oversee distribution of the payout according to your wishes. This can be particularly important for unmarried partners or blended families. For further advice within this area, please seek independent legal advice.

A personal service tailored to your family

At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, protection advice is never one size fits all. You are supported by one experienced team, delivering consistent, personal and tailored advice designed around your circumstances, your family and your long-term goals.

We take the time to understand your family structure, financial commitments and long-term goals, then tailor cover to suit your needs and your budget.

Our approach is personal, considered and built around you.

Speak to a mortgage broker in Manchester about protecting your family

If you are arranging a mortgage, reviewing your finances or experiencing a major life event, it may be time to review your protection. At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we provide clear mortgage advice, family income protection and insurance cover services across Manchester, Burnley, Rawtenstall and the wider North West.If you would like to explore life insurance, critical illness cover or income protection as part of your financial planning, contact our team today. Protecting your mortgage is important. Protecting your family is essential. Contact our friendly team today.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. The cost of this insurance depends on several factors, such as your age, where you live and your occupation. As a result, the cost you will pay is based on your own circumstances.

Frequently asked questions about family protection

What does family protection include?

Family protection typically includes life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection. These policies work together to provide financial support if you die, are diagnosed with a specified illness or are unable to work.

Do I need family protection if I have a mortgage?

If your mortgage depends on your income, protection can help ensure payments continue if something unexpected happens.

When is the best time to arrange family protection cover?

Arranging protection earlier in life often results in lower premiums and fewer health-related exclusions.

Can life insurance help with estate planning?

Life insurance can help meet costs such as Inheritance Tax and may be written in trust to allow funds to pass to beneficiaries efficiently.

Important information

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this document is based on our current understanding and can be subject to change without notice. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK. We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions it might contain.