This week’s blog kicks off a 5 week series where I highlight our favourite features offered by each life company. For impartiality, I’m going in alphabetical order. (Aviva, Irish Life, New Ireland, Royal London & Zurich) It is important to note, some features are more impactful than others, some come with additional costs and some are standard policy features. For detailed information, send me a message anytime.

Notable features offered by Aviva:

Aviva offer a number of other beneficial features, the below are benefits not offered by other providers.

• Best Doctors Service: By far the best ancillary feature offered by Aviva. I must note that as it is provided by a third party, it is not guaranteed in the policy contract -I have been assured it will be offered for the long term. Brochure here.

• Policy documents available immediately after acceptance: For anyone who is accepted immediately, your policy documents are available immediately. Other providers prepare policy documents hours or days after acceptance. Waiting two business days is suitable for many, but in some mortgage protection cases, immediate access relieves pressure from the lender.

• Underwriting ethos: If I have a case with a complicated health history, I turn to Aviva. Aviva tend to offer more favourable terms for a number of conditions, including mental illness.

• Non paid employment cover: On an income protection policy, homemakers/ family carers can be insured for up to €15,000 per annum against disability. While, I do wish this could be increased as a homemaker’s duties would cost far more than €15,000 p.a. to replace -it is a great help in reducing financial stress on a family and recognising the value of domestic work.

*Aviva acquired Friends First and now service all Friends First policies.

Any queries on the above or have interest in securing an Aviva policy? Feel free to call or email me anytime.

Rachel O’Shea, Protection Manager.