Manulife Critical Illness Insurance: 2025 Canada Review
Our expert's opinion on Manulife
Manulife’s critical illness insurance in Canada earns a high rating for its broad condition coverage, strong benefit guarantees, and suite of flexible options.
The flagship Lifecheque® plan covers 25 major illnesses, with lump-sum payouts from $25,000 to $2,000,000, and partial benefits for early-stage diagnoses, while other plans offer basic or bundled coverage options to suit different needs.
Benefit amounts are fully guaranteed, waiting periods are typically 30 days, and a survival period of 30 days post-diagnosis is required for most claims, a standard in the market.
Optional riders—such as children's coverage, return of premium, and disability waivers—allow a tailored approach, while payout speed is supported by Manulife’s longstanding reliability, though not paperless end-to-end.
Compared to competitors like Sun Life or Canada Life, Manulife stands out for maximum coverage flexibility and its 3-in-1 Synergy® product, though its pricing is mid-to-high due to broader features.
Best suited for professionals aged 30–60 seeking high-value protection, families needing flexible riders, and those wanting large lump sums.
Manulife is a financially secure insurer (AM Best A+), with a Google rating of 4.99/5; claims are typically processed within industry-standard timeframes, and policyholders benefit from add-on services like medical second opinion and health navigation.
The waiting period is the minimum time from policy start before claims are eligible; the survival period means the insured must survive 30 days post-diagnosis to qualify for benefits.
- ✅Broadest condition coverage (25 illnesses) among major insurers
- ✅High maximum benefit ($2,000,000)
- ✅Multiple term and permanent policy options
- ✅Partial payouts for early-stage conditions
- ✅Customizable with premium return and child rider
- ✅A+ financial rating (AM Best)
- ✅Dedicated health navigation and second-opinion services
- ❌Survival period required for most claims
- ❌Strict pre-existing exclusion policy
- ❌Return of premium options costly
- ❌No multi-claim (second event) feature
- ❌Premiums higher for smokers and older applicants
Score- ✅Broadest condition coverage (25 illnesses) among major insurers
- ✅High maximum benefit ($2,000,000)
- ✅Multiple term and permanent policy options
- ✅Partial payouts for early-stage conditions
- ✅Customizable with premium return and child rider
- ✅A+ financial rating (AM Best)
- ✅Dedicated health navigation and second-opinion services
Our expert's opinion on Manulife
- ✅Broadest condition coverage (25 illnesses) among major insurers
- ✅High maximum benefit ($2,000,000)
- ✅Multiple term and permanent policy options
- ✅Partial payouts for early-stage conditions
- ✅Customizable with premium return and child rider
- ✅A+ financial rating (AM Best)
- ✅Dedicated health navigation and second-opinion services
- ❌Survival period required for most claims
- ❌Strict pre-existing exclusion policy
- ❌Return of premium options costly
- ❌No multi-claim (second event) feature
- ❌Premiums higher for smokers and older applicants
Score- ✅Broadest condition coverage (25 illnesses) among major insurers
- ✅High maximum benefit ($2,000,000)
- ✅Multiple term and permanent policy options
- ✅Partial payouts for early-stage conditions
- ✅Customizable with premium return and child rider
- ✅A+ financial rating (AM Best)
- ✅Dedicated health navigation and second-opinion services
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our critical illness insurance experts conduct annual reviews of coverage options and premium structures available in the Canadian market to provide you with reliable and unbiased insights. Thanks to this rigorous methodology, hundreds of thousands of Canadians rely on us each month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
The guarantees of Manulife critical illness insurance
Manulife critical illness insurance covers up to 25 critical illnesses (including cancer, heart attack, stroke, coma, Alzheimer's, and more), with select plans covering only the 5 most common major conditions.
Coverage distinguishes between major illnesses (such as life-threatening cancer or stroke, eligible for full benefit payout) and critical conditions that may be eligible for partial or early-intervention benefits.
Lump-sum benefit amounts range from minimum $25,000 to a maximum $2,000,000, with standard coverage choices available for different age bands and products.
A 90-day waiting period applies for cancer and certain diagnoses, while a 30-day survival period after diagnosis is generally required to qualify for payout.
Plans offer guaranteed renewability up to age 75 or for life (permanent), and optional indexation is available with annual percentage increases (up to 5% of the base benefit) at extra cost.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎯 Coverage scope | Covers up to 25 illnesses including cancer, heart attack, stroke, coma, Alzheimer's; some plans limited to 5 major conditions |
| 💲 Benefit amounts | Minimum $25,000; maximum $2,000,000; standard amounts vary by plan, age, and product |
| ⏱️ Waiting period | 90 days for cancer; otherwise coverage effective immediately unless restricted by policy |
| ⌛ Survival period | 30 days after diagnosis (most conditions) |
| 🔒 Guaranteed renewability | Yes; up to age 75 for term coverage or lifetime for permanent plans |
| 📈 Indexation | Available; premium and benefit increase annually (up to 5%) at additional cost |
Grace period: Right to cancel within 10 days before coverage is activated.
👉 Compare the best critical illness insurance plans in for free.Discover the offersHow much does Manulife critical illness insurance cost?
Premiums for Manulife critical illness insurance in Canada are determined based on a range of individual risk factors and policy choices.
Key determinants include your age, health class, smoking status, the chosen coverage amount, policy term, and applicable tax law—Manulife’s critical illness lump‑sum payouts are tax‑free in Canada.
- Age: Each additional decade increases the base premium by approximately 90–150%.
- Health status: Standard health class offers lower rates; rated (surprime) applicants with pre-existing conditions pay higher premiums, sometimes double or more.
- Smoker status: Smokers pay about 70–100% more than non-smokers.
- Coverage amount: Premiums rise proportionally, e.g., +65–80% for each additional $50,000.
- Policy term: Longer durations (e.g., term 20, to age 75/100) cost more than shorter terms.
- Tax treatment: Lump-sum payouts are tax-free under Canadian law.
| Profile | Coverage amount | Non‑smoker premium | Smoker premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 yrs, healthy non‑smoker | $100,000 | $30–$35/month | $60–$65/month |
| 45 yrs, pre‑existing condition | $100,000 | $65–$90/month | $130–$175/month |
| 55 yrs, healthy smoker | $50,000 | $95–$110/month | $195–$225/month |
The optional riders available for Manulife critical illness insurance
- Income rider: Provides a monthly payout in the event of qualifying disability or care need, typically offering 1–2% of the selected coverage amount per month during the benefit period.
- Policy loan: Allows you to borrow up to 90% of your policy’s cash value with competitive interest, requiring periodic repayments to keep the policy active.
- Waiver of Premium (WOP): Waives all future premiums if you become totally disabled before age 60, ensuring your coverage continues without payment.
- Kidney failure and enhanced heart failure riders: Extend lump-sum protection to include early-stage kidney or advanced heart conditions that are not always covered under the main plan.
- Participating benefits: Enables policyholders to become eligible for annual dividends based on Manulife’s performance, which can be used to reduce premiums, increase coverage, or accumulate cash value.
- Conversion rider: Grants the option to convert your critical illness policy to a whole or universal life plan, typically without further medical evidence, before a specified age (often age 65).
- Partial surrender option: Permits withdrawals of a portion of your policy’s cash value in certain situations, subject to limits and minimum remaining coverage requirements.
- Underwriting & Eligibility: Requires a medical exam and detailed health questionnaire for most applicants, with age limits ranging to 65 and potential rate increases for high-risk jobs or hazardous activities.
What exclusions apply to Manulife critical illness insurance?
- Suicide within first year: No benefit paid if death results from suicide in the first 12 months of coverage.
- Undeclared pre-existing conditions: Claims are denied if illness relates to health issues not disclosed at application.
- High-risk activities: Excludes claims for conditions caused by extreme sports, private aviation, and hazardous hobbies.
- Criminal acts: No payout if the illness or injury results from committing or attempting a criminal act.
- Conditions not listed: Only illnesses specifically named in the policy schedule are eligible for benefits.
- Age limits: Certain benefits or eligibility end or reduce outside specified policyholder age ranges.
- Survival period failure: No benefit is paid if the insured does not survive the required post-diagnosis period.
Claims and payout timing for Manulife critical illness insurance
The claims process with Manulife is streamlined, with most approved critical illness claims paid within 10–15 business days of approval.
A 10-day cooling‑off period allows you to cancel your policy without penalty after issue.
- Claim notification: Submit your claim online, by phone, or in the Manulife client portal or mobile app.
- Documentation review: Provide required medical reports and forms for Manulife's review.
- Underwriting assessment: Manulife reviews your claim and documents within 5–10 business days.
- Payout execution: Approved benefits are paid by direct deposit or cheque, usually within 10–15 business days.
- Average payout time: Typical claim processing and payout is 10–15 business days from documentation completion.
- Cooling‑off period: Cancel your contract within 10 days of policy issue for a full refund.
Contacting Manulife and accessing ancillary services
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 🏢 Head office address | 200 Bloor Street East, Toronto, ON M4W 1E5, Canada |
| 📞 Phone | 1-888-626-8543 (critical illness/life), general: 1-888-626-8843 |
| ✉️ Email | individual_insurance@manulife.com (or via secure form on website) |
| 🌐 Website | https://www.manulife.ca |
| 💬 Contact page | https://www.manulife.ca/personal/support/contact-us.html |
| 📱 Social media | Twitter: @Manulife, Facebook: Manulife, LinkedIn: manulife-official |
| ⏰ Operating hours | Mon–Fri 8AM–8PM (local time); average wait under 5 minutes (phone & chat) |
- Teleconsultation: Access to medical advice and professional support via phone or digital health partners, included with select plans.
- Second medical opinion: Policyholders can request an expert second opinion on diagnosis or treatment from recognized specialists.
- Policy management portal: The Manulife online client portal and mobile app allow secure access to policy documents, premium payments, and claims tracking.
- 24/7 hotline: Dedicated support line for urgent claims or emergencies, available at all times.
- Repatriation assistance: Coordination and support for emergency medical evacuation or return if included in your contract.
- Surrender & Partial Redemption: Policies may be surrendered (full or partial), with cash values or loans paid based on contract terms and product type.
FAQ
What critical illnesses are covered and what are the available benefit amounts with Manulife?
Manulife offers coverage for up to 25 full payout illnesses through Lifecheque®, including cancer, heart attack, stroke, and major surgeries, while Lifecheque® Basic and CoverMe® offer coverage for 5 primary conditions. Benefit amounts typically range from $25,000 to $2,000,000 depending on the plan and applicant eligibility. Partial benefit payouts are available for certain early-stage conditions. Each product outlines the precise list of covered illnesses and maximum limits. Review policy brochures or consult your advisor for the exact scope of protection.
What are the waiting and survival periods for Manulife’s critical illness policies?
A standard 90-day waiting period applies for cancer and most critical illness claims from the date coverage begins, and pre-existing conditions have specific exclusion frames. A survival period of 30 days post-diagnosis is required for the lump-sum benefit to be paid. Specific plans may have additional waiting requirements for certain conditions. Be sure to consult your contract for all waiting and survival terms. These timeframes are consistent with industry standards in Canada.
Which optional riders can I add to a Manulife policy, and how do I do so?
Manulife offers a variety of optional riders such as Return of Premium (on death, expiry, or surrender), Waiver of Premium, Children’s LifeCheque, and LivingCare for long-term care. Riders can be selected during the application process and some may be added later by submitting a request through your advisor or the customer portal, subject to approval. Each rider has eligibility rules and affects premium levels. Discuss rider options with a licensed advisor for tailored solutions.
How are premiums calculated and do rates differ for smokers versus non-smokers?
Premiums are based on your age, gender, health, family history, coverage amount, contract type, and lifestyle factors such as smoking status. Non-smokers benefit from much lower rates—monthly premiums are often 30-40% less compared to smokers of the same profile. In some cases, preferred rates are available for applicants with optimal health and habits. Your precise premium will be quoted during the underwriting process. Manulife provides online calculators and advisor support for personalized pricing.
What is the process to submit a critical illness claim to Manulife and when are benefits typically paid?
To submit a claim, you or your advisor must complete the claim form and provide detailed medical documentation confirming the diagnosis. You can submit your claim through Manulife’s online portal, by mail, or phone, and the claims team will review all evidence before making a decision. Most claims are assessed and paid within 10-15 business days of receiving complete documentation. Approved benefits are paid by direct deposit or cheque. The customer service team offers regular updates throughout the process.
Can I increase or reduce my coverage or amend my policy after it is issued?
Manulife allows amendments such as increases or decreases in coverage and adding or removing riders, subject to underwriting approval for increases. To make a change, contact your advisor or submit a Request for Change form online or through the Manulife portal. Reductions and beneficiary changes are typically processed faster than increases or reinstatements. Amendments may affect premiums and are governed by product-specific rules. Guidance is always available from service representatives.
What are the cancellation and surrender rules for Manulife critical illness policies, and what refund options exist?
You may cancel your policy at any time in writing or through the online portal, and you receive a full refund of premiums if canceled during the initial 10-day cooling-off period. Surrendering a policy may provide a cash value or loan advance if the plan supports it, but surrender charges may apply depending on the contract. Return of Premium riders can provide a refund benefit under certain conditions. Your advisor or customer support can explain your policy’s specific refund and surrender terms in detail.
What self-service tools does Manulife provide for managing my critical illness policy?
Manulife’s client portal and mobile app offer 24/7 access to policy details, payments, document downloads, claim tracking, and beneficiary management. Secure communication features allow you to contact support and upload forms online at your convenience. The digital platform streamlines both day-to-day management and claims, making policy administration easy and effective. Routine changes and requests can also be completed without adviser intervention. App-based tools are continuously updated for enhanced user experience.
What critical illnesses are covered and what are the available benefit amounts with Manulife?
Manulife offers coverage for up to 25 full payout illnesses through Lifecheque®, including cancer, heart attack, stroke, and major surgeries, while Lifecheque® Basic and CoverMe® offer coverage for 5 primary conditions. Benefit amounts typically range from $25,000 to $2,000,000 depending on the plan and applicant eligibility. Partial benefit payouts are available for certain early-stage conditions. Each product outlines the precise list of covered illnesses and maximum limits. Review policy brochures or consult your advisor for the exact scope of protection.
What are the waiting and survival periods for Manulife’s critical illness policies?
A standard 90-day waiting period applies for cancer and most critical illness claims from the date coverage begins, and pre-existing conditions have specific exclusion frames. A survival period of 30 days post-diagnosis is required for the lump-sum benefit to be paid. Specific plans may have additional waiting requirements for certain conditions. Be sure to consult your contract for all waiting and survival terms. These timeframes are consistent with industry standards in Canada.
Which optional riders can I add to a Manulife policy, and how do I do so?
Manulife offers a variety of optional riders such as Return of Premium (on death, expiry, or surrender), Waiver of Premium, Children’s LifeCheque, and LivingCare for long-term care. Riders can be selected during the application process and some may be added later by submitting a request through your advisor or the customer portal, subject to approval. Each rider has eligibility rules and affects premium levels. Discuss rider options with a licensed advisor for tailored solutions.
How are premiums calculated and do rates differ for smokers versus non-smokers?
Premiums are based on your age, gender, health, family history, coverage amount, contract type, and lifestyle factors such as smoking status. Non-smokers benefit from much lower rates—monthly premiums are often 30-40% less compared to smokers of the same profile. In some cases, preferred rates are available for applicants with optimal health and habits. Your precise premium will be quoted during the underwriting process. Manulife provides online calculators and advisor support for personalized pricing.
What is the process to submit a critical illness claim to Manulife and when are benefits typically paid?
To submit a claim, you or your advisor must complete the claim form and provide detailed medical documentation confirming the diagnosis. You can submit your claim through Manulife’s online portal, by mail, or phone, and the claims team will review all evidence before making a decision. Most claims are assessed and paid within 10-15 business days of receiving complete documentation. Approved benefits are paid by direct deposit or cheque. The customer service team offers regular updates throughout the process.
Can I increase or reduce my coverage or amend my policy after it is issued?
Manulife allows amendments such as increases or decreases in coverage and adding or removing riders, subject to underwriting approval for increases. To make a change, contact your advisor or submit a Request for Change form online or through the Manulife portal. Reductions and beneficiary changes are typically processed faster than increases or reinstatements. Amendments may affect premiums and are governed by product-specific rules. Guidance is always available from service representatives.
What are the cancellation and surrender rules for Manulife critical illness policies, and what refund options exist?
You may cancel your policy at any time in writing or through the online portal, and you receive a full refund of premiums if canceled during the initial 10-day cooling-off period. Surrendering a policy may provide a cash value or loan advance if the plan supports it, but surrender charges may apply depending on the contract. Return of Premium riders can provide a refund benefit under certain conditions. Your advisor or customer support can explain your policy’s specific refund and surrender terms in detail.
What self-service tools does Manulife provide for managing my critical illness policy?
Manulife’s client portal and mobile app offer 24/7 access to policy details, payments, document downloads, claim tracking, and beneficiary management. Secure communication features allow you to contact support and upload forms online at your convenience. The digital platform streamlines both day-to-day management and claims, making policy administration easy and effective. Routine changes and requests can also be completed without adviser intervention. App-based tools are continuously updated for enhanced user experience.
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