Introducing our new 8-week deferred period for Aviva Group Income Protection

Your clients and their employees can now get financial support sooner.

Aviva Group Income Protection policies now offer even more flexibility, with the addition of an 8-week deferred period. Clients can now choose from 8, 13, 26, 28, or 52-week options, giving them greater control over how and when support is provided.

This means employees can receive financial assistance sooner, helping them focus on recovery, while employers can afford to bring in cover earlier. This new option is particularly valuable for SMEs, where every team member plays a crucial role.

Helping SMEs reduce the impact of employee absence

Following our acquisition of AIG Life - now Aviva Protection UK - we've aligned and added an 8 week deferred period to better meet the needs of our clients. Insights from our new portfolio reveal that some SMEs often prefer shorter deferred periods. These options help maintain the close-knit, people-first culture that many SMEs value, offering timely support for employees and continuity for the business.

Supporting recovery with expert-led rehabilitation

We can work closely with both the employee and your client to create a personalised vocational rehabilitation plan that’s designed to reduce the likelihood of extended absence and support a sustainable return to work.

In 2024, 86% of employees who received our rehabilitation support either remained in or successfully returned to work. For many, this kind of support is essential, especially when they’re unsure where to turn to or risk going back before they’re truly ready.

Aviva’s early intervention and rehabilitation specialists offer expert guidance, with access to private treatment or additional workplace support where needed. It’s the kind of help that can turn a challenging time off into a manageable recovery, protecting both the individual and the business.

Early intervention and rehabilitation services are non-contractual benefits, which Aviva can change or withdraw at any time. 

Protection that fits your clients’ budgets

We understand that cost is a key consideration for smaller businesses. That’s why Aviva Group Income Protection policies are designed with flexibility in mind - so your clients can tailor cover to suit their needs and budget. With no minimum premium, it may be more affordable than expected.

By introducing our new 8-week deferred period for our Group Income Protection policies, we hope to help your clients support their employees more quickly and reduce the financial and business pressures of absence.