Income Protection – Monthly Pay When You Can’t Work

Could you pay your rent, mortgage, or bills if you suddenly lost your income?

Income Protection Insurance pays you a regular monthly income if illness or injury stops you working — helping you stay financially stable until you recover and return to work.

Whether you’re employed, self-employed or a contractor, Mortgage Knight helps you find the right policy that covers your essential outgoings, matches your income style, and fits your budget.

Income Protection Insurance

What Does Income Protection Cover?

  • Pays out if you’re unable to work due to accident, injury or illness
  • Replaces up to 60–70% of your pre-tax income
  • Paid monthly, tax-free, after a chosen waiting period (e.g. 4, 8 or 13 weeks)
  • Continues until you recover, return to work, or the end of the benefit period (2 years, 5 years, or full term)

This is not just for big emergencies — common claims include:

  • Mental health (stress, anxiety, depression)
  • Musculoskeletal injuries (back pain, joint issues)
  • Long-term illness (e.g. cancer, fatigue, recovery from operations)

Why Is Income Protection So Important?

Most employers stop paying after 4–12 weeks of sick leave

Self-employed and contractors get no sick pay at all

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is just £116.75/week (as of 2025) — nowhere near enough for most households

With Income Protection, your monthly bills, food, childcare, and commitments are covered — giving you the breathing room to focus on recovery.

Who Should Consider It?

  • Self-employed individuals with no sick pay
  • Contractors or freelancers working project-to-project
  • Employed workers who want more than the minimum from their employer
  • Anyone with a mortgage, rent, family or financial obligations

Case Studies – Real-Life Clients

Case Study 1: Self-Employed Joiner

Ryan had been self-employed for 6 years. When a shoulder injury meant 8 months off work, his income protection policy paid £1,500/month — covering rent, food, and childcare.

Case Study 2: PAYE Employee with No Enhanced Sick Pay

Holly, a retail manager, didn’t get paid beyond statutory sick pay. When she was diagnosed with anxiety and signed off for 6 months, her policy kicked in after 4 weeks, paying her £1,200/month.

Case Study 3: Contractor on Day Rate

Dev, a UX designer, wanted to protect his day-rate income. We arranged an income protection policy based on his average earnings over 12 months, giving him stable cover between contracts or during illness.

Want to Keep Getting Paid If You Can’t Work? Let’s Get You Covered

If your income would stop tomorrow, would your lifestyle grind to a halt too?

Income Protection Insurance gives you the confidence to recover without financial stress, whether you’re a full-time employee, a self-employed tradesperson, or a busy contractor.

Contact Mortgage Knight today, and we’ll help you build a protection plan that keeps the money coming in — even when you can’t.

Frequently Asked Questions

A: Critical illness pays a one-off lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness. Income Protection pays a monthly income for any condition (not just critical ones) that stops you working.

A: You choose. Options include:

  • Short-term: 1–2 year claims (cheaper premiums)
  • Full-term: until retirement or return to work

We’ll help you balance cost vs. peace of mind.

A: After your chosen deferment period (usually 4, 8, 13, or 26 weeks). A longer deferment = cheaper premiums.

A: Most insurers will cover up to 60–70% of your gross income, paid tax-free. Self-employed clients can base this on average net profit or salary/dividends.

A: Many policies include proportionate benefit, meaning you may still get partial payments if you return to work on reduced hours or income.

A: It depends on your age, health, job, and deferment period — but many clients pay £20–£40/month. We’ll tailor a plan that fits your needs and budget.