Income Protection, also known as Permanent Health Insurance, can provide you with income if you become unable to work because of long-term sickness or disability. If you're worried that you and your family would not be able to survive on State benefit alone, you might like to consider Income Protection. Plans are available for employees, self-employed people and those who do not work but are responsible for managing a home.

Most income replacement policies will give a stream of monthly tax-free payments equivalent to between 50 and 65 per cent of gross salary, although some companies will offer up to 75 per cent. These payments continue either until the policyholder is able to return to work or until the policy's stated term reaches its end.

The benefits of income protection:

• Peace of mind
• Cover until you retire or return to work
• Monthly payments to maintain your standard of living when you are unable to work
• Protection for your family if you become unable to work.