Single vs joint life cover: what's the difference?
A joint policy covers two people and normally pays out once, on the first death, after which the cover ends. Two single policies cover each person separately, so both could pay out. Joint cover is often cheaper, but single policies give more flexibility, for example if a couple separates.
Joint life, first death
Common for couples with a shared mortgage. After the payout, the surviving partner has no cover and would need a new policy, priced on their age and health at the time.
Two single policies
Each person has their own cover and beneficiaries. Each policy can be written in its own trust, and each continues if the relationship ends.
Which suits you
Consider cost, whether you would want cover to continue after the first death, and how easy it would be to split the arrangement. An adviser can quote both.
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