The definition sits at the heart of the policy
Every income protection policy has to say what being unable to work means. That wording, called the incapacity definition, decides whether a claim pays. Two policies with the same monthly benefit can behave very differently if their definitions differ.
Own occupation is the definition most advisers look for first. It asks one question: can you do the material duties of your own job? If illness or injury means you cannot, the policy pays, even if you could do something else.
How the stricter definitions compare
Suited occupation asks whether you could do your own job or another job that fits your education, training and experience. A surveyor with a bad back might be judged able to work in a desk-based property role, so a claim could fail.
Any occupation goes further and asks whether you could do any paid work at all. Work tasks definitions look at everyday activities such as walking, lifting or writing. These stricter tests make claims harder, which is why policies built on them tend to cost less.
- Own occupation: cannot do your own job
- Suited occupation: cannot do your job or a suitable alternative
- Any occupation: cannot do any work
- Work tasks: cannot perform set daily activities
Who can get own occupation cover
Insurers group jobs by risk. For office roles and many professions, own occupation cover is widely available. For manual and higher-risk jobs, some insurers only offer suited occupation or work tasks definitions, or limit how long an own occupation claim can last.
If you change job, the definition usually follows the job you had when you claim, so tell your insurer if your work changes in a big way. Some policies switch to a stricter definition after a set age or when you stop working.
Weighing the cost against the cover
Own occupation cover can cost more than the alternatives, and the gap varies by job and insurer. For skilled workers, the extra protection is often worth it, because losing the ability to do your trained role can hit your income hard even if you could earn something elsewhere.
If budget is tight, you might keep own occupation cover and adjust the deferred period or the payment term instead. Your adviser can show you how each choice changes the price.
How Hi Tomorrow checks the definition
We look at your job title and real duties, then find which insurers offer own occupation cover for that role and on what terms. We check for small print, such as age limits on the definition, before we recommend a policy.
If own occupation is not available for your job, we explain the next best option in plain words. Acceptance and terms are subject to the insurer's underwriting.