I work in the financial services industry. Whether you are able to claim is dependant on if you meet the insurers definition for that illness. I would contact the insurer and register the claim, they can tell you if they can consider it. At that point, they will send a claim form and ask you to complete it so they can write to your consultant and GP. This process can take some time however if you chase the consultants and the GP it will help speed things up. You can also claim on both your critical illness policies at the same time.
Yes the benefits may fall outside the estate and may also avoid probate if in trust. Always best to check with the insurers or a financial adviser on which trust is right for your type of policy. Good luck!
