# What is the waiting period on over-50s life insurance?

> Quick answer · Last updated 5 July 2026

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## In short

Most over-50s policies impose a waiting period — typically 12 or 24 months from start — during which death from natural causes pays nothing or only refunds premiums. Death from accidents usually pays the full sum immediately, even within the waiting period.

Waiting periods protect insurers against anti-selection — people buying cover knowing they are terminally ill. FCA rules require clear disclosure in key features documents before purchase.

If you die from illness in month six, beneficiaries might receive premiums paid plus interest, not the full £5,000 sum assured — read the death benefit schedule carefully.

Some policies reduce waiting periods for transfers from competing plans with equivalent cover already in force — ask when switching.

Accidental death definitions follow policy wording — drug overdose, dangerous sports or criminal acts may be excluded. See over-50s life insurance explained.

## Related

- [Over-50s life insurance explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/insurance/over-50s-life-insurance-explained/)
- [What is over-50s life insurance?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/what-is-over-50s-life-insurance/)

## Primary source

fca.org.uk/consumers/insurance/life-insurance

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.