If you have health conditions, you may have assumed that new life insurance coverage is out of reach. In many cases, that assumption is incorrect. The life insurance market includes a wide range of products designed specifically for individuals with various health histories, from simplified-issue policies to guaranteed-issue products that are issued without health questions. Whether any particular product accepts an application is decided by that insurance company's own underwriting.
It Depends on the Condition, and the Carrier
The most important thing to understand is that carrier underwriting guidelines vary significantly. A condition that results in a decline at one company may be accepted, sometimes at competitive rates, at another.
This is why comparing new coverage options across multiple carriers, with the help of a licensed independent agent, is particularly important for individuals with health concerns.
Common Health Conditions and General Outcomes
- ✓Controlled high blood pressure: Often eligible for standard or near-standard rates at many carriers
- ✓Type 2 diabetes (controlled, non-insulin): Many carriers offer coverage; rates vary by HbA1c and control level
- ✓Asthma (mild to moderate): Often insurable at standard or slightly rated levels
- ✓Depression / anxiety (treated): Many carriers accept applicants on treatment with no recent hospitalizations
- ✓Heart attack history: Highly dependent on time since event, treatment, and current health
- ✓Cancer history: Depends heavily on type, stage, and years in remission
- ✓Obesity: BMI is a factor but rarely a sole disqualifier for most coverage types
Find out what new coverage options may be available for your health situation, speak with a licensed agent.
Or call directly: (866) 837-0682
Plans vary based on age, health, and location. Independent service · New coverage only.
Simplified Issue: Health Questions, No Exam
Simplified issue policies ask a limited set of health questions but do not require a medical exam. For many individuals with moderate health conditions, simplified issue coverage offers a meaningful new coverage option at a reasonable premium.
Approval is not automatic, the health questions must be answered, and certain responses may lead to a decline or a graded benefit structure. A licensed agent can review which simplified issue new coverage options are likely to be most accessible for your health profile.
Guaranteed Issue: No Questions Asked
Guaranteed issue whole life insurance requires no health questions and no medical exam. Acceptance is guaranteed for applicants within the eligible age range (typically 50 to 80). Coverage amounts are limited, usually $5,000 $35,000, and premiums are higher than medically underwritten options.
These policies are designed specifically for individuals who cannot qualify for other types of new coverage. A graded death benefit typically applies for the first 1 to 2 years. A licensed agent can review current guaranteed issue new coverage options and their terms.
Don't Assume, Compare
The only way to know for certain what new life insurance coverage options are available to you given your health history is to compare current offerings with the guidance of a licensed independent agent. The comparison is free, and you may find that more options are available than you expected.