I'm on maternity leave — does this affect income protection?
It can. Income protection benefit is usually linked to your earnings before you became unable to work. Many insurers have rules for parental leave, such as using your earnings before leave started. Check your policy terms or ask your insurer how a claim during or soon after maternity leave would be assessed.
Keep paying premiums
Your cover only continues if premiums are paid. If money is tight during leave, ask whether any temporary arrangement is available rather than stopping payments.
Returning to work
If you return on reduced hours or a different salary, tell your insurer so you know what benefit would be payable.
A good time to review
A new baby often changes how much cover a family needs. Consider reviewing life and critical illness cover too.
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