I have death-in-service cover: do I still need life insurance?
Possibly. Death-in-service benefit from an employer usually pays a lump sum of a multiple of salary if you die while employed there. It normally stops when you leave, and it may not be enough to cover a mortgage or long-term family costs. Personal cover stays with you whatever your job, so many people use the two together.
How death-in-service works
The benefit is usually a multiple of your salary, often between one and four times, and is paid at the discretion of scheme trustees. Your employer's benefits booklet or HR team can confirm the amount and how you nominate who should receive it.
Why it may not be enough
It ends when you change job, retire or are made redundant. If your health has changed by then, buying personal cover could cost more. A salary multiple may also fall short of an outstanding mortgage plus years of family living costs.
Using both together
Some people size their personal cover to meet fixed commitments such as the mortgage, and treat death-in-service as extra. Reviewing both when you change job, take on a bigger mortgage or have children helps keep the total in line with what your family would need.
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