Can You Get Life Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions?

Having a chronic health condition doesn’t mean you’re locked out of life insurance coverage. While pre-existing conditions can complicate the application process and potentially increase your premiums, millions of Americans with health issues successfully secure life insurance policies every year. The key is understanding your options, knowing what to expect, and working with the right insurance strategy for your specific situation.

Knowing how insurers define pre-existing conditions is key to avoiding surprises during the application process. This understanding ensures you disclose the right details and select policies that align with your health profile. It ultimately helps you build a stronger financial safety net without unnecessary roadblocks.

What Are Pre-Existing Conditions?

In life insurance terms, a pre-existing condition is any health issue diagnosed or treated before you apply for a policy. Common examples include diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, asthma, or heart disease. Insurers assess these based on severity, management, and how long you’ve had them, as they influence the risk of an early payout.

Common Pre-Existing Conditions

Mild to Moderate Conditions

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol
• Asthma
• Seasonal allergies
• Previous broken bones or minor surgeries

More Serious Conditions

• Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
• Heart disease or previous heart attack
• Cancer history
• Mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder)
• Sleep apnea
• Obesity (typically BMI over 30)
• Autoimmune disorders

How Insurers Define and Assess Conditions

Insurers don’t view all conditions equally—mild or well-controlled ones like managed high cholesterol might have minimal impact, while severe or recent diagnoses could lead to adjustments. Past injuries or habits like smoking aren’t always classified as pre-existing but can affect eligibility if they indicate ongoing risks.

How Pre-Existing Conditions Affect Life Insurance Eligibility

Pre-existing conditions impact three main areas of your life insurance application: approval odds, premium costs, and available policy types. Understanding these effects helps you set realistic expectations and plan your approach.

Impact on Application Approval

Most people with pre-existing conditions can still get approved for life insurance, but the process is more complex. Insurance companies use a risk classification system that places applicants into different categories based on their health profile.

• Preferred Plus rates go to people in excellent health with no significant medical history—if you have pre-existing conditions, you likely won’t qualify for this tier.
• Preferred rates are available to people with minor, well-controlled conditions. Someone with treated high blood pressure or a history of seasonal depression might qualify here.
• Standard Plus and Standard rates accommodate people with more significant health issues that are well-managed. Many people with diabetes, heart conditions, or mental health issues fall into these categories.
• Table ratings (also called substandard rates) apply when your condition poses higher risk. You might pay 25% to 150% more than standard rates, but you can still get coverage.

Influence on Premiums and Policy Types

Pre-existing conditions typically increase your premiums, but the impact varies widely based on your specific situation. Well-managed conditions often result in modest premium increases, while severe or poorly controlled conditions can significantly raise costs.

Some insurers also limit the amount of coverage they’ll offer to people with certain conditions. Instead of the $1 million policy you wanted, you might only qualify for $500,000 or less.

The Role of Underwriting

Underwriting is the process insurers use to evaluate your risk. For applicants with pre-existing conditions, this usually involves:

• Medical questionnaires that ask detailed questions about your condition, treatment history, and current management plan.
• Medical exams include blood work, urine tests, height and weight measurements, and basic vital signs.
• Medical records review where the insurer requests records from your doctors to verify information and understand your condition’s progression.
• Attending Physician Statements that your doctor completes to provide additional insight into your health status and prognosis.

Types of Life Insurance Policies Available

People with pre-existing conditions have several policy options, each with different requirements and benefits. Choosing the right type depends on your health status, coverage needs, and budget.

Different policy types cater to varying health profiles, allowing you to pick one that fits without excessive scrutiny. This variety is important because it provides flexibility, ensuring you don’t settle for inadequate protection. Choosing wisely can mean better long-term value for your premiums.

 

• Term Life Insurance: Provides coverage for a set period (e.g., 10-30 years) at fixed rates; suitable if your condition is managed, but may require a medical exam, potentially leading to higher costs.
• Whole Life Insurance: Offers lifelong coverage with cash value buildup; more expensive but builds equity—ideal if you can pass underwriting despite conditions.
• Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance: No medical questions or exams; acceptance is automatic for ages 50+, but expect higher premiums and a 2-year waiting period for full benefits.
• Group Life Insurance: Often available through employers without health checks; coverage is typically 1-2 times your salary and can be a low-cost starting point.

For veterans, Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance converts to individual policies post-service, bypassing some health barriers.

Tips for Getting Life Insurance with a Pre-Existing Condition

Success in securing affordable life insurance with pre-existing conditions requires strategic planning and the right approach. These proven strategies can improve your odds and potentially lower your costs.

Shop Around and Compare Providers

Different insurance companies have vastly different approaches to specific conditions. One insurer might specialize in covering people with diabetes, while another has favorable policies for those with mental health conditions.

Get quotes from at least 3-5 companies to compare rates and coverage options. Rate differences can be substantial—sometimes 50% or more between insurers for the same applicant.

Some insurers are known for being more lenient with certain conditions. For example, some companies are more accommodating to people with well-managed diabetes or previous cancer diagnoses.

Work with a Broker Who Specializes in High-Risk Applicants

Independent insurance brokers who specialize in pre-existing conditions can be invaluable. They know which companies are most likely to approve your application and can often pre-qualify you before you formally apply.

Benefits of specialist brokers:

• Knowledge of which insurers work best for your specific condition
• Ability to present your case in the most favorable light
• Experience with underwriting requirements and what documentation helps
• No additional cost to you (they’re paid by insurance companies)

Improve Health and Maintain Treatment Compliance

Taking active steps to manage your condition not only benefits your health but also improves your insurance prospects.

• Follow your treatment plan religiously. Consistent medication use, regular doctor visits, and stable test results demonstrate that you’re a responsible patient.
• Document improvements. If you’ve lost weight, improved your blood pressure, or achieved better diabetes control, make sure your medical records reflect these positive changes.
• Time your application strategically. Apply when your condition is most stable and well-controlled, not immediately after a diagnosis or during a flare-up.

Be Honest on Your Application

Attempting to hide or minimize health conditions is a serious mistake that can void your policy. Insurance companies have multiple ways to discover undisclosed conditions, and the consequences can be severe.

Complete disclosure is required by law and contract terms. This includes conditions you might consider minor or unrelated.

Honesty often helps. Insurers appreciate applicants who are forthright about their health. Being transparent allows them to assess your risk accurately and potentially offer coverage they might deny to someone who seems to be hiding information.

Common Conditions and How They’re Treated by Insurers

Understanding how insurers typically approach specific conditions can help you prepare for the application process and set realistic expectations.

Diabetes

Diabetes significantly impacts life insurance, but many people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can still obtain coverage.

• Type 2 diabetes is generally viewed more favorably, especially if diagnosed after age 50 and well-controlled through diet, medication, or both.
• Type 1 diabetes is considered higher risk, particularly if diagnosed at a young age, but coverage is still possible with proper management.

Key factors insurers consider:

• A1C levels (target: below 7.5% for Type 2, below 8% for Type 1)
• Age at diagnosis
• Treatment compliance
• Presence of complications (neuropathy, vision problems, kidney issues)
• Overall health and weight management

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is extremely common and usually doesn’t prevent life insurance approval if it’s well-controlled.

Well-managed hypertension with readings consistently below 140/90 may not significantly impact your premiums, especially if you’re over 40.

Uncontrolled high blood pressure or readings above 160/100 will likely result in higher premiums or require additional medical information.

Cancer History

Cancer history doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but the type, stage, treatment, and time since remission all matter significantly.

Early-stage cancers with successful treatment and several years of remission often qualify for standard or near-standard rates.

More aggressive cancers or recent diagnoses typically require waiting periods of 2-5 years after successful treatment before qualifying for coverage.

The longer you’ve been cancer-free, the better your rates. Many insurers offer increasingly favorable rates at 2, 5, and 10-year cancer-free milestones.

Mental Health Conditions

Mental health conditions are increasingly understood and accepted by insurers, though they still require careful evaluation.

Mild to moderate depression or anxiety that’s well-managed with medication or therapy often has minimal impact on life insurance rates.

More serious conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or recent suicide attempts are viewed as higher risk and may result in significant premium increases or coverage limitations.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea treatment has improved dramatically, and insurers have adapted their underwriting accordingly.

Well-treated sleep apnea with consistent CPAP use and good compliance often qualifies for standard rates.

Untreated or poorly managed sleep apnea is viewed as higher risk due to associated cardiovascular complications.

Obesity

Body Mass Index (BMI) significantly impacts life insurance rates, but many overweight individuals can still obtain coverage.

• Mild obesity (BMI 30-35) may result in slightly higher premiums but usually doesn’t prevent approval.
• Severe obesity (BMI over 40) often requires additional medical information and may limit coverage options.

What to Expect During the Application Process

The application process for people with pre-existing conditions is more involved than standard applications, but understanding each step helps you prepare effectively.

Health Questions and Medical Records

Your application will include detailed health questionnaires covering your medical history, current conditions, medications, and family health history.

Be prepared to provide:

• Exact dates of diagnoses
• Names and dosages of all medications
• Names and contact information for all doctors
• Details about any hospitalizations or surgeries
• Family history of genetic conditions

Medical records requests are standard for applicants with pre-existing conditions. The insurer will contact your doctors directly to obtain records, which can take several weeks.

Possible Paramedical Exam

Most applicants with pre-existing conditions will need a medical exam, typically conducted by a paramedical professional at your home or workplace.

Standard exam components:

• Height, weight, and BMI calculation
• Blood pressure and pulse measurements
• Blood and urine samples
• Basic health questionnaire
• Sometimes EKG or additional tests based on your conditions

Preparing for your exam:

• Fast for 8-12 hours if blood work is required
• Avoid caffeine and exercise before the appointment
• Stay hydrated but don’t overdrink water
• Bring a list of medications and medical history
• Schedule for a time when you feel your best

Timeline and Approval Factors

The underwriting process for pre-existing conditions typically takes 4-8 weeks, longer than standard applications due to additional medical review requirements.

Factors that speed up the process:

• Complete, accurate application information
• Prompt response to any follow-up questions
• Organized medical records from cooperative doctors
• Stable, well-documented condition management

Potential delays:

• Incomplete medical records
• Need for additional testing or specialist reports
• Unclear or conflicting medical information
• Recent changes in treatment or condition status

FAQs

Can you be denied life insurance for a pre-existing condition?

Yes, you can be denied, but it’s less common than many people expect. Most denials occur when conditions are severe, poorly managed, or very recent. Even if one company denies you, others may approve your application with different underwriting guidelines.

Will a medical exam be required?

Most people with pre-existing conditions will need a medical exam, but there are exceptions. Some insurers offer no-exam policies for smaller coverage amounts, and simplified issue policies may only require health questionnaires. However, traditional underwritten policies with medical exams often provide the best rates for people who can qualify.

Does employer-provided life insurance ask about health?

Basic group life insurance through employers typically doesn’t require health questions for the base coverage amount (usually 1-2 times your salary). However, if you want to purchase additional coverage beyond the basic amount, you may need to answer health questions or undergo medical underwriting.

How long do you need to be stable before applying?

There’s no universal rule, but generally, you want your condition to be stable and well-managed for at least 6-12 months before applying. For serious conditions like cancer or heart attacks, insurers often prefer to see 2-5 years of stability. However, some conditions like well-controlled diabetes or high blood pressure don’t require long waiting periods.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Health Issues Stop You from Getting Covered

Having pre-existing conditions doesn’t disqualify you from life insurance. The life insurance industry has evolved significantly, with many companies now offering coverage to people who would have been automatically denied decades ago.

The most important step is to start the process. Every day you wait is another day your family goes without the financial protection life insurance provides. Even if your first application doesn’t result in the coverage you hoped for, you’ll learn valuable information about what insurers are looking for and can adjust your approach accordingly.

Remember that “some coverage is better than no coverage.” Even if you can only qualify for a smaller policy or have to pay higher premiums, that protection can still make a meaningful difference to your loved ones.

For specific guidance on your situation, consider consulting with a licensed insurance broker who specializes in high-risk cases, or get quotes from multiple insurers.