What is income protection?
If illness or injury stopped you working, how would you pay your bills? Income protection provides a monthly payment to replace part of your lost income — so you can focus on recovery without financial stress.
It's tax-free, long-term support that keeps your finances steady while you're off work.
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Do you need income protection?
- Would your income stop if you couldn’t work?
- Do you rely on sick pay from your employer?
- Are you self-employed without financial backup?
- Do you have ongoing commitments like mortgage or rent?
Income protection isn’t for everyone — but if you rely on your income to pay the bills, it could be one of the most important financial decisions you make.
Check if it’s right for youHow much does income protection cost?
Income protection is flexible — you choose how much to receive, how long it pays out, and how soon it starts. Pricing depends on your circumstances, but many policies are surprisingly affordable.
Our advisers will help you customise a policy that fits your budget — without paying for cover you don’t need.
What does income protection cover?
Income protection pays you a monthly amount if you're too ill or injured to work — no matter the cause. It’s designed to keep your income flowing while you recover.
You’re signed off work
You get a doctor’s note confirming you’re unfit for work due to illness or injury.
Waiting period begins
You wait the agreed amount of time (e.g. 4 or 8 weeks) before payments start.
Payments begin
You receive monthly, tax-free payments — until you're fit to return or the policy ends.
You can choose how much cover you get (usually up to 50–70% of your income) and how long it pays out — from 1 year up to retirement age.
Compare policies with an adviserSelf-employed? You’re in the right place
If you’re self-employed, you likely don’t have access to sick pay, workplace benefits, or an HR department to lean on.
Income protection can be your safety net — replacing lost income if illness or injury keeps you from working. We’ll help you find flexible cover that fits how and when you earn.
Whether you’re a contractor, freelancer, or limited company director, we’ll explain your options in plain English.
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What our customers say
We help freelancers, employees and business owners sleep better at night — knowing their income is protected if life throws a curveball.
"When I broke my leg and couldn’t work for two months, my Hug policy paid out like clockwork. Absolute lifesaver."
"As a contractor with no sick pay, I wanted peace of mind. Hug made income protection simple and stress-free."
"Friendly, clear and quick. Hug explained everything and helped me find the right level of cover."
Income Protection FAQs
You choose a “waiting period” — often 4, 8 or 13 weeks. The longer you wait, the lower your premium.
Most policies cover up to 50–70% of your pre-tax income, paid monthly and tax-free.
Absolutely. We specialise in income protection for freelancers, sole traders, and limited company directors.
No. Income protection replaces income for any illness or injury that stops you working. Critical illness pays a one-off lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious condition.
Yes. Many policies can be adjusted or cancelled at any time. A Hug adviser can explain your options.
You choose. Some policies cover you for a year per claim, others until retirement age.