Critical Illness Critical illness insurance is a new form of insurance that provides a tax-free, lump-sum payment when you survive 30 days following the diagnosis of a covered medical problem.    A serious illness or medical intervention, such as surgery, can profoundly affect your life. Immediate financial consequences can include: Absence from work Cost of treatment outside Canada, or other medical costs not covered under your provincial health plan Homecare during a period of illness and recovery Children’s education Early retirement Critical Illness Plans Basic Coverage Basic plans cover the four primary medical conditions: heart attack, coronary artery disease requiring surgery, cancer and stroke. Coverage may be provided until age 100.  Basic coverage is an economical alternative that provides essential coverage for income earners, business owners or key employees. Enhanced Coverage Enhanced plans cover: cancer, coronary artery disease requiring surgery, heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, aortic surgery, benign brain tumour, blindness, coma deafness, heart valve replacement, kidney failure, loss of limbs, loss of speech, major organ transplant recipient, major organ transplant waiting list, motor neuron disease (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease) multiple sclerosis, occupational HIV injury, paralysis, Parkinson’s disease and severe burns. Level or Renewable Term Premium Level or Renewable Term Premium covers all 26 conditions well beyond retirement years (to age 100). It provides full protection for owners and managers who are part of management beyond age 65, or can be given as a portable retirement benefit. Plan Permanent Plan Permanent provides coverage for life. It is recommended for business owners who remain an essential part of their business for life. Return of Premium Option The Return of Premium Option provides a refund of premiums paid if no claim is payable. This option can be exercised after 10, 15 or 20 years in some polices, or to age 65 or 75, for return to the company or to fund retirement benefits. Living Benefit 100 Plan The Living Benefit 100 Plan enables you to receive a lump sum benefit from $50,000 to $1,000,000, based on the benefit purchased, when you survive 30 days from diagnosis of a critical illness, including cancer, heart attack and stroke. Your plan includes a feature that gives you the option to surrender coverage on the 10th, 15th or 20th year, and receive a premium refund.