Can I Get Life Insurance If I Have a Pre-Existing Condition?
Everything You Need to Know About Underwriting, Options, and Tips for Securing Coverage
When you start thinking about protecting your family’s financial future, one of the biggest concerns many people have is:
“Can I get life insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?”
It’s an honest, real-world question—and if you’re asking it, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans live with health issues, ranging from high blood pressure to diabetes or cancer survivorship, and wonder if life insurance is even possible for them. The good news? In most cases, you can still get coverage. The process might look different, and you should know some things, but options exist.
This article will walk you through:
• What life insurance underwriters look for with pre-existing conditions.
• The different types of policies and options available.
• Smart tips for getting covered despite health challenges.
• Answers to the questions we hear most often.
Let’s dive in—so you can make confident, informed decisions for yourself and your loved ones.
Understanding Underwriting: How Do Insurers Evaluate Pre-Existing Conditions?
What is underwriting?
Underwriting is insurance companies' process to determine your eligibility, premium rates, and coverage options. It’s their way of assessing risk—essentially, how likely you are to make a claim on your policy.
What counts as a pre-existing condition?
Underwriting is insurance companies' process to determine your eligibility, premium rates, and coverage options. It’s their way of assessing risk—essentially, how likely you are to make a claim on your policy.
A pre-existing condition is any health issue you’ve had before applying for coverage. This can include:
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
• Cancer (past or present)
• Heart disease
• Asthma
• Depression or anxiety
• Obesity
• Autoimmune disorders
• Sleep apnea
• Many others
What do underwriters look at?
When you apply, underwriters may consider:
• The type and severity of your condition
• How long you’ve had it
• Your treatment plan and how well you manage the condition
• Recent test results or medical records
• Medications you take
• Any hospitalizations, surgeries, or complications
They’ll typically request your medical history, sometimes order a paramedical exam (blood and urine tests, basic measurements), and might even contact your doctors for more information. Every company has its guidelines—some are more lenient with certain conditions than others.
What Are My Life Insurance Options If I Have a Pre-Existing Condition?
Here’s the truth: Most people with common pre-existing conditions can still qualify for life insurance, though it might cost more or have some limits.
1. Traditional Term or Whole Life Insurance
What is it? Traditional life insurance comes in two primary flavors: term (coverage for a set number of years, like 10, 20, or 30) and whole life (lifelong coverage with cash value).
Who’s eligible?
If your condition is well-managed and you’re following your doctor’s treatment plan, you may still qualify—often at higher premiums. Mild or moderate issues (like controlled high blood pressure or well-managed Type 2 diabetes) are usually insurable.
Downside:
More severe or recent conditions (like a recent cancer diagnosis or a major heart event) may be declined or rated (meaning higher premiums).
2. Simplified Issue Life Insurance
• What is it? This policy skips the medical exam but does ask health questions.
• Who’s eligible? This is good for people with moderate health issues but nothing extremely severe. The process is faster, but premiums and coverage amounts are often lower.
3. Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
• What is it? No medical questions, no exam, everyone who applies is accepted.
• Who’s eligible? It is designed for people with significant health challenges who can’t qualify elsewhere. Coverage amounts are smaller (often $5,000–$25,000), premiums are much higher, and there’s usually a 2-year waiting period before the full benefit is paid for non-accidental death.
• Best for: Those with serious or multiple conditions.
4. Group Life Insurance Through Your Employer or Association
•What is it? Many employers or associations offer group life coverage with no health questions (or minimal underwriting).
•Who’s eligible? Almost everyone, regardless of health, is eligible for the group plan. Although coverage is often limited, it can be a valuable resource.
Tips for Getting Life Insurance with a Pre-Existing Condition
- Work with an Independent Agent or Broker. Not all insurance companies treat health conditions the same way. An independent agent can shop around to find companies more likely to accept your application or offer better rates for your specific health situation.
- Be Honest on Your Application Never hide or downplay a condition. If the insurance company discovers undisclosed information, it can lead to higher premiums, a denied claim, or cancellation of your policy.
- Have Your Medical Records Ready. Accurate, up-to-date information on your diagnosis, treatments, and test results can speed up the process and improve your chances.
- Demonstrate Good Management of Your Condition. Showing you regularly take your medication, attend checkups, and follow doctor’s orders can help you get better rates.
- Consider Applying After a Health Milestone. If you’ve recently improved your health (like quitting smoking or losing weight), it may pay to wait a few months to show stability.
- Look Into Employer or Group Plans. These often require little or no medical underwriting.
- If You’re Denied, Don’t Give Up. Every insurer has different guidelines. A decline from one doesn’t mean another will do the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I pay more for life insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?
Usually, yes. Rates are based on risk, so a health issue can mean higher premiums. The increase depends on the severity, how well it’s managed, and the insurer’s criteria.
Can my policy be canceled if my health gets worse?
Once approved and the policy is active, it can’t be canceled or rates increased due to future health changes—as long as you pay premiums and were truthful on your application.
What if I’ve been denied before?
You still have options. Simplified and guaranteed issue plans, as well as employer coverage, may be available.
Should I wait until I’m healthier to apply?
Generally, it’s better to apply sooner, since age is a significant rate factor, and your health can change unexpectedly. However, a short delay might be worthwhile if you’re actively working on improvements (like quitting smoking).
The Bottom Line: Yes, You Can Get Life Insurance With a Pre-Existing Condition
While it can be more complicated and sometimes more expensive, having a health issue doesn’t mean you’re uninsurable. There are more choices than ever, and the proper guidance can help you find the best option for your needs and budget.
Next Steps
• Gather your medical info.
• Talk to an independent agent.
• Compare policies and options.
• Don’t lose hope—a solution is out there!
Have more questions? Want a personalized quote or to discuss your situation? Contact us or leave a comment below—our team is here to help you protect what matters most.
