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UK Recruitment Glossary

Death-in-Service Benefit

Alex By Alex · 12-year UK recruiter · Updated April 2026

In recruiter context

Standard UK employer benefit, typically structured as group life insurance. Common multiples: 2x salary at standard, 4x at financial services and senior roles, 8-10x at some large UK corporates. Tax-free for the beneficiary up to certain limits. Paid to whoever the employee has nominated (Expression of Wish form) — usually spouse or dependents. Most UK employees don't update their nominated beneficiaries when relationships change, leading to unintended outcomes. Worth checking and updating annually. Often overlooked in total comp comparisons but represents £200,000-£500,000 of insurance value at typical UK professional salaries.

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