What It Is
CriticalGuard provides cash benefits if you are diagnosed with a qualifying critical illness including cancer, heart attack, stroke and more. It helps cover medical and non-medical expenses.
How It Works
When a covered critical illness is FIRST diagnosed, you receive a lump-sum payment that you can use for anything. Payments are made directly to you, not your provider.
Eligibility
- Primary Insured: Ages 18-90
- Spouse/Partner: Ages 16-90 (varies by state)
- Dependent Children: Covered to age 26 (state variates may apply)
Plan Options
Choose from four coverage plans:
- Cancer Only
- Heart/Stroke Only
- Cancer + Heart/Stroke
- Comprehensive Critical Illness (includes all major conditions)
Each plan includes additional services and optional benefits
Coverage Amounts
- Ages 18-64: $5,000 up to $100,000
- Ages 65-74: $5,000 up to $75,000
- Ages 75-90: $5,000 up to $50,000
Certain lower amounts are Guaranteed Issue (no underwriting required)
Qualifying Events
- Cancer (life-threatening, in situ, benign brain tumor, skin cancer)
- Heart attack or stroke
- Advanced Alzheimer’s disease, ALS, coma, renal failure, organ transplant, loss of independent living
- COVID-related ICU confinement (with qualifying event)
- Pregnancy-related complications (with qualifying event)
Premium Stability
Premiums don’t increase with age. UnitedHealthcare gives advance notice (31–75 days) before any rate changes.
Guaranteed Renewability
Keep your coverage year after year — as long as premiums are paid on time and no fraud occurs.
What’s Not Covered
- Illnesses not defined as “Qualifying Events”
- Preexisting conditions (For 12 months after policy start)
- Self-inflicted injury, war, crime, or intoxication
- Certain professional/high risk sports or activities
Great For
Everyone, especially individuals with family history of critical illness
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