How much cover should I ask for and for how many years?

Let's first consider the number of years (that's called the policy's "term"). Basically, you should take out insurance for as long as possible - particularly bearing in mind that the older you are the more likely you are to contract a serious illness. However, most insurance companies will not offer insurance above age 65 although a few will - but at a very high cost.

If you want a quote for a combined Life and Critical Illness policy you will be asked to state the value of life cover that you need. The life insurance adviser will assume that you also want the same level of Critical Illness cover. This is because that's how most people want it.

However, if you do want different levels of cover for life and critical illness, then please let the life insurance adviser know and they will be able to give you a special quote.

If you are thinking about a stand alone Critical Illness policy or want to consider a level of cover which is different to your life insurance, we can give some pointers.

Many people use critical insurance to ensure that, in the event of serious illness, they can pay off their mortgage and any other loans or hire purchase they might have. To that figure they add at least four or five years worth (or more) of household running costs - electricity, gas, council tax, food and household expenses, car expenses, school fees etc. Then add a reserve for illness related costs - a stair lift, downstairs wc, a car with wider doors, doctors and nursing fees etc. We think you will be surprised how quickly the sum mounts up.

The only good point to note is that insurance payouts are tax-free so you can do your sums on the likely costs and ignore tax. You may of course qualify for various government Benefits.

Uk Critical Illness Insurance from MyLifeIsCritical.co.uk