Critical illness cover has you covered for many serious illnesses and be set up on it's own or alongside life cover. Different policies cover different illnesses - we'll guide you through the different options that are available. If you get one of the illnesses listed within the policy, a critical illness policy will pay out a tax-free, one-off payment. This can help pay for your mortgage, rent, debts, or alterations to your home, such as wheelchair access, should you need it.