You’ve managed your diabetes for years—tracking A1C levels, sticking with your medications, and leading an active life where your diabetes feels like background noise and not something you worry about. That is, until you apply for life insurance, and all of a sudden, you’re told that because of your diabetes, you’re now considered a “high-risk applicant”.
The good news is that despite this “high risk” label, the outlook for those applying for life insurance after being diagnosed with diabetes is much brighter than many expect. Sure, it may affect your application, but so do a lot of other things. The trick for diabetics is knowing how individual life insurance companies assess diabetes and selecting the right policy for your circumstances.
To help you in your search, we’ve created the following guide, which will shed light on some effective strategies for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics, ranging from standard policies for well-managed cases to no-exam plans for those facing application hurdles. So, whether you’re newly diagnosed or a long-time manager of diabetes, affordable coverage options exist, and hopefully, this information will help you find them!
About the Author
The Insurance Brokers USA Team consists of licensed insurance professionals with extensive experience helping clients with complex health conditions find appropriate coverage. Our agents have worked with thousands of individuals facing diabetes challenges, specializing in alternative insurance solutions when traditional coverage isn’t available.
How Does Diabetes Affect Life Insurance Applications?
Bottom Line
Diabetes doesn’t prevent life insurance coverage – it requires more detailed medical information and may result in higher premiums, but most diabetics can qualify for some form of life insurance protection.
The underwriting process for diabetics typically involves reviewing several key factors:
- Blood sugar control: Recent A1C levels and glucose monitoring records
- Treatment compliance: Medication adherence and regular doctor visits
- Complications: Presence or absence of diabetic-related health issues
- Lifestyle factors: Diet, exercise, weight management, and smoking status
- Overall health: Other medical conditions and family health history
“The biggest mistake diabetics make is assuming they can’t get coverage and never applying. We see well-controlled diabetics get approved at standard (or normal) rates regularly, especially those diagnosed later in life with Type 2 diabetes.”
– Senior Underwriter, InsuranceBrokers USA
Different insurance companies have varying approaches to diabetic applicants. Some specialize in covering individuals with pre-existing conditions, while others may be more restrictive. This variation creates opportunities for diabetics to find coverage even if initially declined elsewhere.
Does Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes Matter for Coverage?
The type of diabetes significantly impacts both coverage availability and pricing, with insurance companies treating Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes quite differently during the underwriting process.
Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes: Insurance Perspective
| Factor | Type 1 Diabetes | Type 2 Diabetes |
|---|---|---|
| Age at Diagnosis | Typically childhood/young adult | Usually adult onset |
| Underwriting Difficulty | More challenging | Generally easier |
| Premium Impact | Higher rate increases | Moderate rate increases |
| Best Coverage Options | Guaranteed issue, group coverage | Traditional underwritten policies |
Type 1 Diabetes Considerations:
- Requires insulin dependency from diagnosis
- Longer disease duration often means more scrutiny
- May need specialized insurers familiar with Type 1 management
- Group life insurance through employers often provides easier access
Type 2 Diabetes Advantages:
- Often manageable through diet, exercise, and oral medications initially
- Later-in-life diagnosis may result in more favorable underwriting
- Better chance for standard or near-standard rates if well-controlled
- A wider variety of insurance companies willing to provide coverage
Bottom Line
While Type 1 diabetes presents more underwriting challenges, both types can qualify for life insurance. The key is finding the right insurance company and policy type for your specific situation.
How Do Insurance Companies Evaluate Diabetic Applicants?
Insurance companies use a systematic approach to evaluate diabetic applicants, focusing on specific medical markers and lifestyle factors that indicate long-term health outcomes.
Key insight: The evaluation process has become more sophisticated and favorable for diabetics, with companies recognizing that well-managed diabetes doesn’t necessarily correlate with significantly increased mortality risk.
Primary Evaluation Criteria
A1C Levels (Most Important Factor):
- Below 7.0%: Excellent control, best rates possible
- 7.0% – 8.0%: Good control, standard to slightly higher rates
- 8.0% – 9.0%: Fair control, moderate rate increases
- Above 9.0%: Poor control, may face declines or significant rate increases
“Focus on demonstrating consistent A1C levels over time rather than one perfect reading. Companies want to see stability and good management patterns, not just a single good test result.”
– Diabetic Specialist InsuranceBrokers USA
Complications Assessment:
- Eye problems (retinopathy)
- Kidney function (nephropathy)
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
- Cardiovascular complications
- Foot problems or amputations
Treatment and Lifestyle Factors:
- Medication compliance and effectiveness
- Regular medical monitoring and doctor visits
- Blood glucose self-monitoring frequency
- Exercise routine and weight management
- Smoking status (critical factor)
Key Takeaways
- A1C levels below 7.0% significantly improve approval odds and rates
- Absence of complications is more important than the type of treatment
- Consistent medical care demonstrates responsible health management
- Non-smoking diabetics receive much more favorable treatment
- A longer time since diagnosis without complications improves the outlook
What Coverage Options Are Available for Diabetics?
Diabetics have access to several types of life insurance coverage, ranging from traditional fully underwritten policies to specialized products designed for individuals with pre-existing conditions.
Traditional Life Insurance Options
Fully Underwritten Term Life Insurance:
Best option for well-controlled diabetics, offering the highest coverage amounts at competitive rates. Requires medical exams and extensive health questionnaires, but provides the most comprehensive protection.
Fully Underwritten Permanent Life Insurance:
Whole life and universal life policies that build cash value while providing lifelong protection. More expensive but suitable for diabetics seeking permanent coverage with investment components.
Simplified Issue Options
For diabetics who may face challenges with traditional underwriting, several no exam life insurance options provide accessible coverage:
Simplified Issue Life Insurance:
- No medical exam required
- Health questions focus on recent complications
- Coverage typically limited to $50,000-$500,000
- Faster approval process (often within days)
Bottom Line
Diabetics with A1C levels under 8.0% and no recent complications often qualify for simplified issue coverage at reasonable rates.
Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
When other options aren’t available, guaranteed issue policies provide coverage regardless of health status:
- No health questions or medical exams
- Coverage amounts typically $5,000-$50,000
- Graded death benefit (limited payouts in first 2-3 years)
- Higher premiums but guaranteed acceptance
Group Life Insurance
Often the most accessible option for diabetics, employer-sponsored group life insurance typically:
- Requires no individual underwriting for basic coverage
- Allows coverage increases during open enrollment
- May offer supplemental coverage with simplified underwriting
- Provides immediate coverage regardless of diabetes status
“Don’t overlook group life insurance options. Many diabetics can get substantial coverage through their employer without any health questions, then supplement with individual policies as needed.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team
How to Apply Successfully with Diabetes?
Success in obtaining life insurance with diabetes often depends more on application strategy and preparation than on the diabetes itself. Proper documentation and timing can significantly impact both approval odds and premium rates.
Pre-Application Preparation
Gather Medical Documentation:
- Recent A1C test results (preferably showing consistent levels)
- Complete medication list with dosages
- Records of regular doctor visits and specialist consultations
- Documentation of any diabetes education or management programs
- Blood pressure and cholesterol readings
Optimize Your Health Profile:
- Ensure A1C levels are as low as safely possible before applying
- Maintain consistent medication schedules
- Document regular exercise routines and healthy lifestyle choices
- Address any other health issues that could compound diabetes risk
Bottom Line
The best time to apply for life insurance is when your diabetes is well-controlled and you have 6-12 months of consistent A1C readings below 7.5%.
Application Best Practices
Choose the Right Insurance Company:
Different insurers have varying approaches to diabetic applicants. Some companies specialize in covering individuals with pre-existing conditions and may offer more favorable rates and terms.
Work with Experienced Agents:
Agents familiar with diabetic underwriting can help you navigate the application process and identify the most suitable insurance companies for your specific situation.
Be Complete and Accurate:
- Provide all requested medical information thoroughly
- Don’t minimize or hide diabetes-related complications
- Include positive lifestyle factors and management efforts
- Be prepared to explain any periods of poor control
Key Takeaways
- Preparation and documentation significantly improve approval odds
- Timing applications during periods of good control is crucial
- Honesty about health status builds credibility with underwriters
- Multiple applications to different companies may be necessary
- Professional guidance can help avoid common application mistakes
What Will Life Insurance Cost with Diabetes?
Life insurance costs for diabetics vary significantly based on control levels, complications, type of diabetes, and the specific insurance company’s underwriting guidelines.
Sample Life Insurance Rates for Diabetics (35-year-old, $500,000 Term Policy)
| Health Status | A1C Level | Monthly Premium Range | Rate Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| Well-controlled Type 2 | 6.5% – 7.0% | $35 – $50 | Standard Plus |
| Managed Type 2 | 7.0% – 8.0% | $50 – $75 | Standard |
| Fair control Type 2 | 8.0% – 9.0% | $75 – $120 | Substandard |
| Well-controlled Type 1 | 7.0% – 7.5% | $80 – $120 | Substandard |
*Rates are estimates and vary significantly by insurance company, age, and individual health factors.
Factors That Increase Costs:
- Poor A1C control (above 8.0%)
- Presence of diabetic complications
- Type 1 diabetes (generally higher than Type 2)
- Smoking (dramatically increases rates)
- Additional health conditions
- Younger age at diabetes diagnosis
“The difference between excellent and poor diabetes control can mean the difference between affordable coverage and pricing that makes insurance unaffordable. Investing in better diabetes management pays dividends in insurance costs.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Underwriting Manager
Cost-Saving Strategies:
- Apply when A1C levels are optimally controlled
- Consider annual renewable term policies for younger applicants
- Maximize group life insurance benefits before seeking individual coverage
- Work with agents who can shop multiple companies efficiently
- Consider smaller coverage amounts initially, then add coverage later
Bottom Line
Well-controlled diabetics can often secure life insurance at rates only 25-50% higher than standard rates, making coverage quite affordable for most families.
What Alternatives Exist When Traditional Coverage Is Denied?
When traditional life insurance applications are declined due to diabetes complications or poor control, several alternative solutions can still provide valuable financial protection for your family.
Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
These policies accept all applicants regardless of health status, making them ideal for diabetics with significant complications:
- No health questions: Acceptance regardless of diabetes status or complications
- Immediate coverage: Protection begins as soon as premiums are paid
- Graded benefits: Full death benefit after 2-3 years (earlier payments for accidental death)
- Coverage limits: Typically $5,000 to $50,000 maximum
Among the best final expense insurance companies, several offer guaranteed issue policies specifically designed for individuals with serious health conditions.
Accidental Death Insurance
For diabetics unable to qualify for traditional life insurance, accidental death vs life insurance provides an important distinction in coverage options:
- No health questions related to diabetes
- Lower premiums than traditional life insurance
- Coverage only for accidental deaths (not illness-related)
- Can often secure higher coverage amounts
Bottom Line
While accidental death insurance doesn’t provide comprehensive protection, it offers affordable coverage for diabetics who cannot qualify for traditional policies.
Group Life Insurance Strategies
Employer-sponsored group life insurance often provides the most accessible coverage for diabetics with complications:
- Guaranteed issue amounts: Usually 1-2 times annual salary without health questions
- Supplemental coverage: Additional amounts may be available with simplified underwriting
- Spouse and dependent coverage: Often available without individual underwriting
- Open enrollment opportunities: Annual chances to increase coverage
Mortgage Protection Insurance
Specialized mortgage life insurance can provide targeted protection for your home:
- Often easier underwriting than traditional life insurance
- Coverage amount decreases with mortgage balance
- Protects family’s ability to keep the home
- May accept diabetics who were declined elsewhere
Key Takeaways
- Multiple alternative options exist when traditional coverage is denied
- Combining different types of coverage can provide comprehensive protection
- Group life insurance should be maximized before seeking individual alternatives
- Alternative coverage is better than no coverage for family protection
- Health improvements may open doors to better coverage options later
Why Work with Specialized Insurance Agents?
Navigating life insurance applications with diabetes requires specialized knowledge that goes beyond basic insurance sales. Agents experienced in covering diabetic clients understand the nuances of underwriting and can significantly improve your chances of securing appropriate coverage.
Specialized Agent Advantages
- Company Knowledge: Experienced agents know which insurance companies have the most favorable underwriting for diabetic applicants, potentially saving months of application time and improving approval odds.
- Application Strategy: They understand how to present your health information in the most favorable light while maintaining complete honesty about your condition.
- Timing Guidance: Specialists can advise when to apply based on your A1C trends and overall health management, timing applications for optimal results.
“Working with an agent who understands diabetes underwriting can mean the difference between getting declined and getting approved at reasonable rates. The expertise is worth the investment of time to find the right professional.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team
What to Look for in an Agent
Experience with Diabetic Clients:
- Ask specifically about their experience with diabetic life insurance applications
- Request references from other diabetic clients (with permission)
- Inquire about their success rates with different types and severities of diabetes
Multiple Company Access:
Independent agents who work with multiple insurance companies can shop your application to the most suitable insurers, rather than being limited to a single company’s products.
Pre-existing Condition Expertise:
Look for agents who specialize in life insurance approvals with pre-existing medical conditions, as they’ll have the broadest knowledge of available options.
The Application Process with Specialists
- Initial Consultation: A thorough review of your diabetes history, current management, and coverage needs to develop an appropriate strategy.
- Company Selection: Based on your specific situation, the agent will identify the 2-3 insurance companies most likely to offer favorable terms.
- Application Preparation: Guidance on gathering documentation and preparing for medical exams to present your health management in the best possible light.
- Follow-up Support: Assistance with any additional questions from underwriters and advocacy throughout the approval process.
Bottom Line
Specialized agents typically improve both approval rates and premium costs for diabetic applicants, making their expertise valuable even when their services cost slightly more than working with general agents.
For immediate assistance with your diabetes life insurance needs, contact our specialized team at 888-211-6171. Our agents have helped hundreds of diabetic clients secure appropriate coverage and understand the unique challenges you face in the application process.
Final Key Takeaways
- Diabetes doesn’t prevent life insurance coverage – it requires strategic application approaches
- A1C levels below 7.5% significantly improve both approval odds and premium rates
- Type 2 diabetes generally receives more favorable underwriting than Type 1
- Multiple coverage options exist, from traditional policies to guaranteed issue alternatives
- Group life insurance provides accessible coverage regardless of diabetes status
- Specialized agents improve outcomes for diabetic life insurance applications
- Good diabetes management directly translates to better insurance rates and options
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get life insurance if I have diabetes?
Direct answer: Yes, most diabetics can qualify for some form of life insurance coverage.
The key factors are how well your diabetes is controlled (A1C levels), whether you have complications, and choosing the right insurance company. Well-controlled diabetics often qualify for standard or near-standard rates, while those with complications may need guaranteed issue or group coverage options.
What A1C level do I need for life insurance approval?
Direct answer: A1C levels below 7.5% significantly improve approval odds, with levels below 7.0% often qualifying for the best available rates.
Insurance companies prefer consistent A1C readings over time rather than one perfect test. Most companies can work with A1C levels up to 8.5%, though rates increase with higher levels. Above 9.0%, you may face declines with traditional insurers but can still qualify for guaranteed issue coverage.
Is Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes better for life insurance?
Direct answer: Type 2 diabetes generally receives more favorable underwriting and rates than Type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes diagnosed later in life often indicates the ability to manage the condition through lifestyle changes and medications. Type 1 diabetes, requiring insulin from diagnosis and often beginning in childhood, presents longer disease duration and insulin dependency that insurance companies view as higher risk.
How much more expensive is life insurance with diabetes?
Direct answer: Well-controlled diabetics typically pay 25-100% more than standard rates, depending on diabetes type and control levels.
Costs vary significantly based on A1C levels, complications, and the insurance company. Well-controlled Type 2 diabetics may pay only slightly higher premiums, while Type 1 diabetics or those with complications may face rate increases of 100-300%. However, coverage remains affordable for most families compared to the financial protection it provides.
What if I’m declined for life insurance due to diabetes?
Direct answer: Multiple alternative options exist, including guaranteed issue life insurance, group coverage, and accidental death policies.
Declinations from one company don’t prevent approval elsewhere, as different insurers have varying underwriting standards. If traditional coverage isn’t available, guaranteed issue policies accept all applicants regardless of health status, though with lower coverage amounts and higher premiums.
When is the best time to apply for life insurance with diabetes?
Direct answer: Apply when you have 6-12 months of consistent A1C readings below 7.5% and your diabetes is well-managed.
Timing applications during periods of good control improves both approval odds and rates. Avoid applying immediately after diagnosis, during medication changes, or when dealing with complications. The stability of your diabetes management is more important than perfect numbers on a single test.
Do I need to disclose diabetes on life insurance applications?
Direct answer: Yes, you must disclose your diabetes diagnosis and provide complete medical information about your condition.
Failing to disclose diabetes or providing incomplete information can void your policy, leaving your beneficiaries without protection. Insurance companies will discover undisclosed conditions during the claims process, so honesty during application is essential for valid coverage.
Can I get life insurance if I have diabetic complications?
Direct answer: Yes, though your options may be limited to guaranteed issue or group life insurance policies.
Diabetic complications like retinopathy, neuropathy, or kidney problems make traditional underwriting more challenging, but guaranteed issue policies accept applicants regardless of health status. The coverage amounts are lower and premiums are higher, but protection is still available for your family.
