My employer changed sick pay—does it matter?
Income protection
The short answer
Yes, it can. Your income protection deferred period is often chosen to start when your employer's sick pay ends. If sick pay has been reduced or shortened, you could face a gap with no income. Check your deferred period and ask your insurer whether it can be changed.
Changing the deferred period
Shortening it usually increases the premium and may need new medical questions.
If sick pay has improved
A longer deferred period might now be suitable, which could lower your premium.
Keep your insurer informed
Tell them about changes to your job or pay that could affect a claim.
Sources
This article is general information about UK protection insurance, not personalised financial advice. Policy terms vary between insurers and products, so always check your own policy documents.
Last updated 27 October 2026