Zurich Assurance, a major provider of Life Assurance and Critical Illness protection cover in the UK, has announced that critical illness (CI) payments made by the Company increased for the fifth year in succession in 2009. Data shows that 814 CI claims were paid out last year, totalling £62.3 million. This compares with 746 in 2008, 710 in 2007, 702 in 2006 and 584 in 2005. It represents a more than quarter rise (28%) in CI payments since in the last five years. The proportion of claims denied remained static at 9%. Of those not paid out, 8% were declined due to the definition of the condition not being met while just 1% were as a result of non-disclosure. Phil Brown, director of underwriting and claims at Zurich, said the number of claims paid should help improve consumer confidence in the industry.

We say it points out that Critical Illness cover remains a vital component in a desirable personal cover plan which continues to prove its worth.