Are mental illnesses covered?

Mental illnesses are generally covered in all income protection policies, and mental illness claims are treated with the same respect and sensitivity as any other claim. Insurance companies also understand that depression is a common outcome of serious injury or physical illness and can have a serious impact on recovery time. However, as with any pre-existing condition, you probably won't be able to buy cover if you have a history of mental illness.

If you ever need to make a claim you will have to supply medical evidence to support your case. Underwriters will follow the same procedures to verify your claim whether it is for a mental or physical illness. Your application will have to be reviewed by the insurance company's medical experts before your claim is approved, and they may choose to make further investigations or ask you to see a specialist to confirm your diagnosis.

It is possible to lower your premiums by opting to exclude mental illnesses from your policy, but mental illnesses make up a high proportion of income protection claims so you should consider this decision carefully.

Many insurance companies offer free rehabilitation services to help you get back into the workforce after an income protection claim. Support services include access to counselling as well as practical training courses, skills assessments and careers advice.