Life claims

Income protection: what to do and what to gather

Know your waiting period and tell the insurer early.

Do this first

1. Check your waiting period and benefit period The waiting period is how long you must be off work before payments start.
2. Tell the insurer as soon as you know you'll be off work Some policies set time limits for notifying them.
3. Ask your doctor to complete the medical section They'll need to confirm you're unable to work and for how long.
4. Gather proof of your income before you stopped work Recent payslips, tax returns or business accounts.

Who to tell

• Your income protection insurer: Tell them as soon as you know you'll be off work.
• Your employer: They may be asked to confirm your income and absence.

What to gather

• Your policy details. Waiting and benefit periods, and the definition of disability.
• A medical certificate or report. Confirms you can't work and for how long.
• Proof of your income before you stopped work. Payslips, tax returns or accounts.
• The date you stopped work and your expected return. Starts the waiting period.

Things that catch people out

• The waiting period starts from when you stop work, not when you make the claim. Don't delay telling the insurer.
• Payments may be reduced by other income you receive. Ask how that works for your policy.

General guidance only. It isn't your insurer's requirements or financial advice. Always check your policy documents and your insurer's instructions.