Best Calgary critical illness insurance in 2025
- 4 additional guarantees
- Supplementary protection
- Expert medical assistance services
- 4 additional guarantees
- Supplementary protection
- Expert medical assistance services
Beneva offers a robust critical illness insurance solution with coverage amounts reaching up to $2 million, positioning it among the more generous options on the Canadian market. The plan includes two distinct coverage options, allowing applicants some flexibility depending on their medical and financial priorities. A key highlight is the inclusion of a test period with no obligation, which allows potential clients to evaluate the product without immediate commitment. Additional perks include four supplementary guarantees, expert medical assistance services, and extended protection benefits — features that enhance the value and practicality of the coverage. This blend of flexibility, high coverage limits, and support services makes Beneva a comprehensive and competitive option.
Ideal profile: This product suits self-employed professionals, contractors, or business owners who may lack employer-sponsored benefits and seek significant financial cushioning in case of serious illness. It’s also well-aligned for higher-income individuals or families with financial dependents, given the high coverage ceiling and added support services.
- High coverage amount up to $2 million
- Flexible options with two types of coverage
- No-obligation test period
- Includes valuable supplementary benefits and expert medical support
- Limited information on exact illnesses covered or exclusions
- May be costlier compared to basic critical illness plans
- Two options may be less comprehensive than multi-tiered competitors with broader illness lists
- Access to Teladoc medical experts
- Option to subscribe to insurance for your children or grandchildren
- Perfect option to protect your financial plan
- Access to Teladoc medical experts
- Option to subscribe to insurance for your children or grandchildren
- Perfect option to protect your financial plan
Sun Life delivers a comprehensive critical illness insurance product with a top-tier coverage amount of up to $3 million — one of the highest available in Canada. It covers up to 26 critical illnesses, offering extensive protection for a wide range of serious health conditions. The plan comes with a 30-day test period free of obligation, which is notably longer than many competitors, providing added reassurance before committing. Sun Life enhances its offering with value-added services like access to Teladoc medical experts and the possibility to extend coverage to children or grandchildren, which is a rare and thoughtful inclusion. Its design makes it especially attractive for those who view insurance as a cornerstone of long-term financial planning.
Ideal profile: This insurance suits high-income earners, entrepreneurs, and professionals with dependents or complex financial commitments who want strong coverage and expert medical support. It’s also ideal for families interested in multigenerational protection, thanks to its child/grandchild subscription option.
- Exceptionally high coverage up to $3 million
- Wide coverage: up to 26 critical illnesses
- Long 30-day test period with no obligation
- Access to Teladoc expert medical services
- Flexible options to cover children or grandchildren
- Premiums likely to be on the higher end due to broad coverage and high payout
- Less suited to those seeking basic or budget-friendly coverage
- No mention of included supplementary benefits beyond medical access
- Several optional protections available
- Ideal solution for an employee or self-employed worker
- Unlimited access to MediGuide's second medical opinion service
- Several optional protections available
- Ideal solution for an employee or self-employed worker
- Unlimited access to MediGuide's second medical opinion service
iA offers a high-coverage critical illness insurance solution under its Transition plan, with protection up to $3 million and two customizable coverage options. The plan provides a 30-day trial period with no obligation, aligning with industry best practices for flexibility and client assurance. While it doesn't specify how many illnesses are covered, it distinguishes itself with access to MediGuide’s second medical opinion service — an invaluable tool for navigating complex diagnoses. The availability of several optional protections further allows tailoring the policy to personal and professional circumstances, especially relevant in today’s evolving work landscape.
Ideal profile: This product fits both salaried employees and self-employed professionals who seek customizable, high-limit coverage with an emphasis on second-opinion medical services. It’s particularly suited to those who value flexibility and medical support during health uncertainties.
- Coverage up to $3 million, among the highest on the market
- 30-day no-obligation test period
- Flexible structure with two plan options and optional add-ons
- Access to MediGuide’s second medical opinion services
- Targeted toward both employees and freelancers
- No clear detail on number or types of illnesses covered
- May require add-ons for comprehensive protection
- Get approved and covered in 20 minutes
- 27 critical illnesses and 17 early-stage conditions covered
- Extensive coverage for early-stage cancers and cardiac illnesses
- Get approved and covered in 20 minutes
- 27 critical illnesses and 17 early-stage conditions covered
- Extensive coverage for early-stage cancers and cardiac illnesses
PolicyMe stands out in the critical illness market by blending accessibility, clarity, and efficiency into its offering. It covers up to 44 illnesses — 27 critical and 17 early-stage conditions — which is one of the most comprehensive illness lists among digital-first insurers. Although the maximum coverage amount is capped at $1 million, lower than many competitors, the policy’s design emphasizes speed and convenience, with approval possible in as little as 20 minutes. The plan includes a 30-day no-obligation trial and offers strong coverage for early-stage cancers and cardiac conditions, which are often neglected in standard policies. Its lump-sum, tax-free payout structure simplifies claims and enhances financial security during recovery.
Ideal profile: This plan is ideal for young professionals, digital-savvy individuals, and those seeking fast, straightforward protection without navigating complex underwriting. It also fits those with modest coverage needs who prioritize early detection benefits and quick enrollment.
- Fast approval process — coverage in as little as 20 minutes
- Extensive list of 44 covered illnesses, including early-stage conditions
- Strong focus on early-stage cancer and cardiac care
- 30-day free trial period
- Tax-free lump-sum payout
- Lower maximum coverage ($1 million) compared to competitors
- No optional riders or extended family coverage features mentioned
- Digital-first approach may lack personalized advisor support for complex needs
- Return of premium option without terminating the contract
- Premium waiver guarantee in case of total disability of the insured
- Free access to the Teladoc integrated medical experts' service
- Return of premium option without terminating the contract
- Premium waiver guarantee in case of total disability of the insured
- Free access to the Teladoc integrated medical experts' service
Humania offers a term-based critical illness insurance solution with flexible coverage that spans between 4 to 25 illnesses, allowing applicants to tailor the policy according to their needs and budget. The maximum payout amount is capped at $1 million, typical for mid-range coverage in the Canadian market. Policyholders benefit from a 30-day trial period and additional features such as a return of premium option — notably available without needing to cancel the policy — and a premium waiver in the case of total disability. One of the standout features is the integration of Teladoc medical expert services, which adds value in terms of accessibility to top-tier virtual care and second opinions.
Ideal profile: This product is well-suited for individuals seeking cost control and coverage flexibility — particularly those who want critical illness insurance that can adapt to changing health and financial needs. It’s also appealing to those who value optional refunds and support services without committing to a permanent plan.
- Flexible coverage with choice between 4 and 25 illnesses
- 30-day free trial with no obligation
- Return of premium option available without cancelling the contract
- Premium waiver in case of total disability
- Access to Teladoc’s expert medical services
- Lower coverage cap ($1 million) than premium plans
- Fewer illnesses covered compared to more comprehensive offerings
- Term structure may not suit those seeking lifelong or permanent protection
Facing serious illnesses like heart attacks, strokes, or cancer not only impacts your health but also strains your family. Regular health insurance in Calgary might not cover all the costs, and treatments can be expensive.
Enter critical illness insurance—it gives a lump sum for immediate medical costs and supports your lifestyle. But how do you choose the perfect plan?
Our guide explains how Calgary critical illness insurance works, its pros and cons, and highlights top plans in the region. Use our free tool to compare policies, get personalized quotes, and find the right plan for you.
Calgary Critical Illness Insurance: Our Top Picks
- Sun Life: Coverage ranges from $25,000 to $3 million.
- Manulife: Flexibility and choice at your fingertips.
- Canada Life: Benefits from $10,000 to $3 million.
- RBC Insurance: Competitive rates and tailored products.
What is critical illness insurance?
Critical illness (CI) is a type of insurance that provides a lump sum payment if you are diagnosed with a covered critical illness. This money can be used to help you cover expenses like medical bills, lost income, or other costs associated with dealing with a serious illness.
Both life insurance and CI offer financial protection, but:
- A life insurance pays out a benefit to your beneficiaries upon your death.
- Critical illness insurance pays out a lump sum to you if you are diagnosed with a covered critical illness, even if you recover.
Critical illnesses typically covered:
- Cancer
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney failure
- Organ transplant
- Blindness
- Paralysis
- Coma
- And more
Things to consider in Calgary:
- Availability: While not specific to Calgary, CI availability might differ based on location and regulations.
- Policy details: Carefully review the specific illnesses covered, exclusions, limitations, and benefit amounts.
- Premiums: Costs can vary based on factors like your age, health, and chosen coverage.
Also, consider consulting with Calgary-based insurance brokers or advisors for specific guidance and options. You can also use our comparator below to compare different plans and get free quotes.
Shop critical illness policies now
How much does a Calgary critical illness insurance plan cost?
The cost for CI in Calgary depends on your age, health, desired coverage amount, and chosen policy features.
Here are rough ballpark figures to give you a general idea:
| Age Range | Estimated Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| 20-29 years old | $50 - $100 |
| 30-39 years old | $100 - $200 |
| 40-49 years old | $200 - $400 |
| 50-59 years old | $400 - $800 |
| 60+ years old | $800+ |
Here’s how the factors we mentioned above can influence the cost of critical illness insurance in Calgary:
- Age: Premiums increase significantly with age.
- Health: Good health can lead to lower premiums.
- Coverage amount: Higher coverage translates to higher premiums.
- Policy features: Additional riders or features increase costs.
- Smoking: Smoking significantly raises premiums.
The actual costs can vary considerably based on these factors. Compare quotes from multiple insurers with your specific details to find the most affordable and suitable CI plan in Calgary. You can use our comparator in the previous section.
What are the best Calgary critical illness insurance plans?
Here are some well-known large national providers that offer critical illness insurance plans in Calgary:
- Sun Life Financial: A highly regarded company with a long history, offering various CI plans with flexible options.
- Manulife: Another major player in the Canadian insurance market, known for its comprehensive CI products and diverse coverage choices.
- RBC Insurance: Part of the Royal Bank of Canada, RBC Insurance provides CI policies with competitive rates and strong financial ratings.
- Canada Life: Offering a variety of CI products with customizable features and strong financial backing.
But what makes them a good choice? Let's find out!
Sun Life’s Calgary critical illness insurance
Sun Life provides critical illness coverage through two plans: Express and Comprehensive.
The Express plan offers coverage for up to 7 illnesses, providing benefits of up to $50,000.
- It is categorized into three tiers: Basic, Enhanced and Comfort Plus.
- Basic provides coverage for cancer only, with each subsequent tier expanding the range of coverage.
- Eligibility is open to adults under the age of 65.
Sun Life’s Comprehensive plan extends coverage to 26 illnesses, with an additional 8 qualifying for partial payouts.
- It also includes coverage for 5 childhood illnesses for individuals under the age of 24.
- The plan offers flexible terms, with coverage reaching up to $3 million for adults ($1 million for children).
- Various add-ons are available, such as the return of premiums, owner waivers, and long-term care conversion.
For adult plans, coverage amounts range from $25,000 to $3,000,000, while child plans are available in amounts ranging from $25,000 to $1,000,000.
Manulife: Flexibility and choice at your fingertips
With Manulife, you can get the following options for critical illness coverage:
- Manulife Clear & Simple CI: This straightforward plan covers 25 critical illnesses, with payout options ranging from $25,000 to $1 million and term lengths up to 30 years. You can choose from a standard or accelerated death benefit option for additional financial protection.
- Manulife Select CI: Offering more customization, this plan allows you to tailor coverage to your specific needs. Choose from three levels of critical illness coverage and add optional riders like children's CI and guaranteed CI payout after a specific period.
- Manulife Future CI: Designed for young adults, this plan offers affordable rates and guaranteed insurability. You can start with a lower coverage amount and increase it later without medical evidence, ensuring your needs are met as you grow older.
RBC Critical Illness Insurance in Calgary
RBC offers critical illness insurance through two distinct plans:
- Critical Illness Insurance Plan: Designed for budget-conscious individuals, this plan provides coverage for three critical illnesses — cancer, heart attack, and stroke. It is accessible to individuals aged 18 to 50, offering benefits of up to $75,000.
- Critical Illness Recovery Plan: A comprehensive option, this plan extends coverage to 30 different illnesses, with benefits reaching up to $2 million. Tailored to meet individual needs, the plan offers customization options and flexible term choices.
Canada Life: Reliable coverage with personalized options
Canada Life’s CI Secure plan offers straightforward coverage for 25 critical illnesses with payout options from $25,000 to $500,000 and term lengths up to 30 years.
With its CI Choice, with more customization options, you can select from three coverage levels (Essential, Preferred, and Premier) and add optional riders like children's CI and guaranteed CI payout after a specific period. This plan provides flexibility for those seeking tailored protection.
Then we have Canada Life’s CI Max — a combination of critical illness coverage with guaranteed life insurance in this plan. Offering guaranteed acceptance and coverage regardless of your health status, this option provides peace of mind knowing you and your loved ones are protected.
You must compare providers and get quotes to get the best plan. While it might be time-consuming to contact them individually, you can instead simply use our free comparator below. Compare the best critical illness insurance Calgary plans, and get personalized quotes right here.
Find a critical illness insurance policy that's right for you
What factors should you consider when choosing a CII policy?
Choosing the right critical illness insurance policy can be a daunting task, as it involves balancing various factors that impact your financial security and peace of mind in the face of a critical illness.
Here are some key aspects to consider:
Coverage amount
- Financial needs: Estimate potential expenses from medical bills, lost income, and ongoing care to determine the necessary coverage amount. Consider your future earning potential and family situation.
- Under/over-insuring: Avoid under-insuring, leaving you financially vulnerable, or over-insuring, leading to unnecessarily high premiums. Aim for a comfortable balance.
Benefits
- Lump sum payout: This is the primary benefit, ensuring immediate financial support. Consider how you'll utilize the funds.
- Additional riders: Some policies offer optional riders like child support riders, income replacement riders, or accelerated death benefits for added protection. Assess their value and cost-effectiveness.
Exclusions
- Pre-existing conditions: Review carefully how the policy handles pre-existing conditions, waiting periods, and potential exclusions based on your medical history.
- Specific illnesses: Not all CI policies cover the same critical illnesses. Ensure the policy covers the illnesses you're most concerned about.
- Lifestyle factors: Some policies might have exclusions for certain lifestyle factors like smoking or hazardous occupations.
Premiums
- Affordability: Choose a policy you can comfortably afford without straining your budget. Consider potential premium increases over time as you age.
- Premium structure: Some policies offer level premiums that stay constant throughout the term, while others have age-based premiums that increase over time. Choose a structure that suits your financial planning.
- Premium discounts: Investigate potential discounts for healthy lifestyles, non-smoking, or family plans.
