# Income protection: how to compare policies beyond the monthly premium

> Insurance · 26 June 2026

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## Summary

Own-occupation cover, waiting periods and benefit length matter more than headline price. Income protection pays monthly income when illness or injury stops you working — unlike critical illness lump sums.

Consumer groups and insurers report steady search interest in income protection as employers shorten sick pay. Policies pay a tax-free monthly income after a waiting period if you cannot work — often until return to work or policy end.

Compare definition of incapacity first: own-occupation cover pays if you cannot do your specific job; any-occupation definitions are harder to claim. Cheaper quotes often use weaker wording.

Align the waiting period with employer sick pay — commonly 4, 8, 13 or 26 weeks. Benefit period to retirement costs more than two- or five-year cover.

Cover is usually capped at 50%–70% of gross income. Employer group policies may overlap — check before buying twice.

See our compare income protection guide and critical illness vs income protection comparison.

## Related topics

- [/insurance/](https://moneyguide.org.uk/insurance/)

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