Getting life insurance is an important step in protecting your family’s financial future. But if you have a pre-existing health condition, you might wonder if you can qualify or how much it will cost. The good news is: yes, you can still get life insurance — though the process may be a little different.
In this article, we’ll explain what a pre-existing condition is, how it affects your application, and the best ways to find the right coverage for your situation.
What Is a Pre-Existing Condition?
A pre-existing condition is any health issue or illness you had before applying for life insurance. These can include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Asthma
- Cancer (current or past)
- Depression or anxiety
- Obesity
- HIV or other chronic conditions
Insurance companies look at your health history to decide your risk level. The more serious or uncontrolled a condition is, the higher the risk to the insurer.
Can You Get Life Insurance with a Pre-Existing Condition?
Yes, you can still get life insurance, but:
- Your options may be limited.
- Your premium (monthly cost) may be higher.
- Some insurers may require extra medical information.
- You may have waiting periods or policy limits.
It all depends on your specific condition, how well it’s managed, and which company you apply to.
Types of Life Insurance Available
Here are some options you can explore:
1. Term Life Insurance
- Offers coverage for a set period (10, 20, or 30 years).
- More affordable than permanent insurance.
- Harder to qualify for if you have serious health issues, but still possible.
2. Whole Life Insurance
- Covers you for life.
- Builds cash value.
- More expensive, but some policies are more lenient with health issues.
3. Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
- No medical exam or health questions.
- Easy to qualify, even with serious conditions.
- But: higher premiums and lower coverage amounts (often $25,000 or less).
4. Simplified Issue Life Insurance
- No medical exam, but you do answer some health questions.
- Faster approval than traditional life insurance.
- Good for those with minor or moderate health issues.
How to Improve Your Chances of Approval
Even with a pre-existing condition, there are ways to improve your chances and get a better rate:
1. Manage Your Condition
Show that you’re taking care of your health. If your condition is under control with medication, exercise, or a healthy lifestyle, insurers may offer better rates.
2. Work with an Independent Agent
Independent agents can compare multiple companies and find the ones more friendly to your specific health condition.
3. Be Honest
Always be honest about your health history. If the insurance company finds out you hid something, they can deny your claim later — even after death.
4. Get a Medical Exam (if you’re healthy enough)
In some cases, getting a medical exam can prove your condition is under control — leading to better pricing.
5. Compare Quotes
Every insurance company is different. Some are stricter with diabetes or heart conditions, while others may be more flexible. Shopping around can save you money.
What Do Insurers Look For?
When you apply, insurance companies may ask for:
- Medical records
- Prescription history
- Doctor’s reports
- Hospital or treatment history
- Lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol use, weight)
They’ll want to know:
- When you were diagnosed
- What treatment you receive
- How stable your condition is
- If there are any complications
The more detailed and stable your medical history, the better your chances.
Conditions That May Still Get Good Rates
Some conditions — especially if well-managed — may still allow for standard or near-standard rates:
- Controlled high blood pressure
- Mild asthma
- Type 2 diabetes (managed with diet or medication)
- Anxiety or depression (with regular treatment)
- Minor past surgeries or injuries
The key is proving stability and regular care.
What If You’re Denied?
If you apply and get denied:
- Don’t panic — different insurers have different rules.
- Try simplified issue or guaranteed issue life insurance.
- Work with a licensed agent who specializes in high-risk cases.
- Improve your health and reapply after 6–12 months if possible.
Tips for Finding the Right Policy
- Start early: The younger you are, the better your chances and lower your rates — even with health issues.
- Avoid waiting: Your health might change over time, and delaying can lead to higher costs.
- Set a budget: Know what you can afford, even if coverage is limited.
- Get help: A broker or agent can save you time and stress.
Final Thoughts
Having a pre-existing condition doesn’t mean you can’t protect your family with life insurance. While it may take more effort — and possibly higher premiums — there are still good options available.
The key is to:
- Understand your health
- Be honest in your application
- Work with the right agent or insurer
- Keep trying if you’re denied
Life insurance is one of the most caring things you can do for your loved ones. Even if your health isn’t perfect, you still deserve coverage — and with the right steps, you can get it.