🎯 Bottom Line Up Front
This comprehensive comparison examines Fidelity Life and North American Company side-by-side across key factors: financial strength, product offerings, pricing strategy, customer service, and ideal customer profiles. We’ll explore each company’s distinct strengths and help you determine which insurer aligns better with your specific life insurance needs and financial goals.
Understanding Fidelity and North American: Company Overview
Key insight: Fidelity operates as a Midwest-based final expense specialist focused on accessible coverage for seniors and those with health conditions. North American functions as a traditional full-service insurer with comprehensive product breadth and nationwide reach.
Fidelity Life Association (Fidelity Security Life)
Fidelity Life Association was founded in 1896 in Kansas City, Missouri, giving it nearly 130 years of continuous operation. The company operates under the name Fidelity Security Life Insurance Company and remains headquartered in Kansas City. Fidelity built its reputation on accessible life insurance for working families, specializing in simplified issue and guaranteed issue whole life insurance products designed primarily for final expense coverage. The company focuses on serving seniors aged 50-85 with straightforward underwriting that doesn’t require medical exams, making coverage accessible to those with pre-existing health conditions who might face challenges with traditional insurers.
Fidelity Security Life
- Founded in 1896 (129 years)
- Midwest heritage, Kansas City roots
- Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri
- Licensed in 49 states plus D.C.
- A (Excellent) from A.M. Best
- Final expense specialist
- Simplified & guaranteed issue focus
Fidelity’s Market Position: Accessible Coverage for Seniors
Fidelity built its reputation by making life insurance accessible to everyday Americans, particularly seniors planning for final expenses. The company excels at providing coverage to applicants aged 50-85 with health conditions through simplified underwriting that doesn’t require medical exams or extensive health questions. Fidelity’s straightforward approach and focus on accessibility make it a strong choice for burial insurance and final expense planning.
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance
North American Company was founded in 1886 and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. With nearly 140 years of continuous operation, North American has built a reputation as a reliable traditional insurer offering a comprehensive portfolio of life insurance products. The company provides term life, whole life, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance through independent agents nationwide. North American is a member of Sammons Financial Group, which provides additional financial stability and resources. The company emphasizes competitive pricing for standard and preferred health classes while maintaining strong underwriting standards.
North American Company
- Founded in 1886 (139 years)
- Traditional American insurer
- Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois
- Licensed in all 50 states plus D.C.
- A+ (Superior) from A.M. Best
- Member of Sammons Financial Group
- Comprehensive product portfolio
Business Model Difference
Fidelity: Focuses on accessible final expense insurance with simplified and guaranteed issue underwriting. Distribution through independent agents specializing in senior markets. Emphasis on serving older applicants and those with health conditions through flexible guidelines.
North American: Offers comprehensive life insurance products across all categories. Distribution through a nationwide independent agent network. Emphasis on competitive pricing for healthy applicants and product breadth for complex planning needs.
Financial Strength and Stability Comparison
Key insight: Both companies demonstrate strong financial stability with excellent ratings from A.M. Best. North American holds a slightly higher A+ rating, while Fidelity maintains a solid A rating. Both have proven track records of honoring claims.
| Metric | Fidelity | North American | What It Means |
|---|---|---|---|
| A.M. Best Rating | A (Excellent) | A+ (Superior) | Both demonstrate strong financial health |
| Outlook | Stable | Stable | Both are positioned for long-term success |
| Years in Business | 129 years | 139 years | Both demonstrate remarkable longevity |
| Claims Record | Reliable payment history | Strong history honoring claims | Both process claims promptly |
| Parent Company | Fidelity Security Group | Sammons Financial Group | Both are backed by larger organizations |
Financial Stability Verdict
Both companies are financially sound. North American’s A+ rating reflects its position as a top-tier traditional insurer with superior financial strength. Fidelity’s A rating demonstrates solid stability and reliable performance. Both companies deliver trustworthy coverage with proven ability to meet claims obligations across economic cycles.
Historical Performance
Fidelity
Nearly 130 Years of Service: Fidelity’s Kansas City roots trace back to 1896, establishing it as one of the Midwest’s most enduring insurers. The company successfully focused on accessible coverage for working families and built a strong reputation for final expense insurance. Consistent performance in the senior market with a stable A rating maintained throughout recent years. Known for reliable claims payment and straightforward service.
North American
Nearly 140 Years of Stability: Founded in 1886, North American has operated continuously through multiple economic cycles, wars, and market changes. Member of Sammons Financial Group since 1985, providing additional resources and stability. A+ Superior rating reflects exceptional financial strength and operating performance. Strong surplus and consistent profitability.
What This Means for You
Both companies have demonstrated their ability to honor commitments through multiple economic cycles. North American’s higher rating provides additional confidence for those seeking maximum financial strength. Fidelity’s solid A rating is more than adequate for final expense coverage. Both are reliable, established insurers you can trust.
Product Offerings: What Each Company Provides
Key insight: Fidelity specializes in simplified issue and guaranteed issue final expense products with accessible underwriting. North American offers comprehensive breadth across term, whole life, universal life, and indexed products.
Fidelity Products
| Product | Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Simplified Issue Whole Life | Final Expense | $2K-$50K, no medical exam, immediate coverage |
| Guaranteed Issue Whole Life | Final Expense | $2K-$25K, guaranteed acceptance, graded benefits |
| Modified Benefit Whole Life | Final Expense | Graded death benefit, accessible underwriting |
| Preneed Insurance | Funeral Planning | Assigned to the funeral home, simplified process |
North American Products
| Product | Term Lengths | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Guarantee UL | 10-30 years | Guaranteed universal life, competitive pricing |
| Accumulation Builder IUL | Lifetime | Indexed universal life with cash value growth |
| Builder Plus IUL | Lifetime | Enhanced IUL with multiple index options |
| Platinum UL | Lifetime | Flexible universal life with guarantees |
| Foundation Whole Life | Lifetime | Traditional whole life with cash value |
| Signature Term | 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 years | Level term life with conversion options |
Fidelity’s Strength: Final Expense Accessibility
- Simplified issue expertise
- Guaranteed issue options
- No medical exam required
- Flexible health guidelines
- Fast approval process
- Ages 0-85 accepted
North American’s Strength: Product Breadth
- Comprehensive product suite
- Term, whole, universal, indexed
- High coverage capacity
- Competitive pricing tiers
- Cash value accumulation options
- Conversion privileges
Product Comparison Summary
Choose Fidelity if you need accessible final expense coverage without medical exams, have health conditions that make traditional underwriting challenging, or want fast approval with simplified questions.
Choose North American if you want comprehensive product options, need high coverage amounts, are in good health seeking competitive rates, or want permanent life insurance with cash value growth potential.
Pricing Philosophy and Value Comparison
Key insight: North American focuses on competitive rates for healthy applicants across multiple health classes. Fidelity emphasizes accessible pricing for those with health conditions who might struggle with traditional underwriting.
Life insurance pricing is highly individualized. Both companies offer competitive rates within their specialties and target markets.
Sample Rate Comparison: Final Expense Coverage
| Age/Gender | Fidelity (Approx.) | North American (Approx.) | Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55-year-old Male ($15K) | $40-62/month | More competitive for healthy | Fidelity is flexible for health issues |
| 60-year-old Female ($15K) | $36-55/month | Better rates for preferred health | North American rewards good health |
| 65-year-old Male ($20K) | $65-92/month | Competitive for standard/preferred | Depends on health profile |
| 70-year-old Female ($10K) | $38-58/month | Better for excellent health | Fidelity accessible for conditions |
Sample Rate Comparison: $250,000 / 20-Year Term
| Age/Gender | Fidelity (Approx.) | North American (Approx.) | Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-year-old Male | Not core focus | $15-22/month | North American specialty |
| 35-year-old Female | Not core focus | $14-20/month | North American competitive |
| 45-year-old Male | Not core focus | $48-62/month | North American designed for this |
Important Pricing Notes
These are approximate ranges. Actual rates depend on detailed health information, lifestyle factors, state of residence, and specific coverage needs. Both companies offer competitive pricing within their respective specialties. Get personalized quotes from both for an accurate comparison.
Value Considerations Beyond Price
Fidelity’s Value Proposition
- Accessible Underwriting: Coverage available even with health conditions
- No Medical Exam: Simplified application saves time and hassle
- Fast Approval: Often approved within 24-48 hours
- Flexible Guidelines: Accepts applicants; others decline
- Senior Focus: Designed specifically for ages 50-85
North American’s Value Proposition
- Competitive Rates: Top-tier pricing for healthy applicants
- Multiple Health Classes: Rewards excellent health with lower premiums
- Product Flexibility: Comprehensive options for all needs
- High Coverage Limits: Accommodates complex financial planning
- Cash Value Options: Multiple permanent products with growth potential
The Price Verdict
Compare for your specific needs. North American typically offers better pricing for healthy applicants seeking term or permanent life insurance. Fidelity excels at accessible pricing for final expense coverage, especially for applicants with health conditions. Choose based on which company’s specialty aligns with your health profile and coverage goals.
Target Markets: Which Company ServesEach Best
Key insight: Fidelity targets seniors and individuals with health conditions seeking accessible final expense coverage. North American focuses on the broad market, seeking comprehensive products with competitive pricing for healthy applicants.
Fidelity’s Ideal Customers
- Ages 50-85 (senior focus)
- Seeking final expense coverage
- Have pre-existing health conditions
- Prefer no medical exam
- Want fast approval
- Need accessible underwriting
- Budget: $2K-$50K coverage
North American’s Ideal Customers
- Ages 18-75 (broad range)
- Good to excellent health
- Seeking term or permanent coverage
- Need high coverage amounts
- Want competitive pricing
- Complex financial planning needs
- Cash value accumulation interest
Detailed Scenario Analysis
Scenario 1: 35-Year-Old, Need $500K Term, Excellent Health
Better Choice: North American — North American specializes in competitive term life pricing for healthy applicants. Multiple health classes reward excellent health with lower premiums. Comprehensive term options with conversion privileges.
Scenario 2: 62-Year-Old, Wants $15K Final Expense, Type 2 Diabetes
Better Choice: Fidelity — Fidelity excels at accessible final expense coverage with flexible health guidelines. No medical exam needed, simplified questions, fast approval. Designed specifically for applicants with health conditions like diabetes.
Scenario 3: 45-Year-Old, Need $750K Coverage, Interested in Cash Value
Better Choice: North American — North American’s indexed universal life products offer cash value accumulation with market participation. High coverage capacity accommodates $750K need. Multiple IUL options with different strategies.
Scenario 4: 68-Year-Old, Wants Quick Coverage, Recent Health Issues
Better Choice: Fidelity — Fidelity’s simplified and guaranteed issue options provide fast approval without extensive health questions. Flexible underwriting accepts recent health issues. Focus on accessibility over extensive underwriting.
Finding Your Fit
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do I need comprehensive term or permanent products? → North American
- Am I seeking final expense coverage specifically? → Fidelity
- Do I have health conditions that concern me? → Fidelity
- Am I in excellent health, seeking the best rates? → North American
- Do I want to avoid medical exams? → Fidelity
- Do I need high coverage amounts (over $100K)? → North American
Customer Service and Application Experience
Key insight: Fidelity emphasizes fast approval and simplified processes for accessibility. North American focuses on comprehensive underwriting and professional agent support.
Application Process Comparison
| Factor | Fidelity | North American |
|---|---|---|
| Online Quote | Available through agents | Available through agents |
| Online Application | Yes – simplified process | Yes – electronic available |
| Medical Exam | Not required for most products | Required for full underwriting |
| Approval Speed | Often 24-48 hours | 1-3 weeks, depending on the exam |
| Health Questions | Simplified (5-10 questions) | Comprehensive application |
| Underwriting | Simplified/guaranteed issue | Traditional with health classes |
Customer Service Ratings
Fidelity
- A.M. Best: A (Excellent)
- Focus: Fast, accessible service
- Agent Network: Final expense specialists
- Claims Processing: Reliable payment
- Application: Simplified, quick
North American
- A.M. Best: A+ (Superior)
- Focus: Professional guidance
- Agent Network: Nationwide coverage
- Claims Processing: Strong track record
- Application: Comprehensive, thorough
Understanding the Differences
Both companies have strong ratings and reliable claim payment. Fidelity’s simplified process appeals to those wanting fast approval without medical exams. North American’s thorough underwriting appeals to healthy applicants seeking the best possible rates through a comprehensive health assessment.
Professional Insight
“From our perspective, Fidelity shines when clients need accessible final expense coverage with minimal underwriting hassles—their simplified process and flexible guidelines are excellent. North American excels when clients are in good health and want comprehensive product options with competitive pricing. Both deliver reliable claims processing and financial stability.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team
Advantages of Choosing Fidelity
Key insight: Fidelity’s strengths center on accessible underwriting, fast approval processes, and serving seniors with health conditions—ideal for final expense planning without medical exam requirements.
Fidelity’s Core Advantages
- No Medical Exam Required: Simplified and guaranteed issue options available
- Fast Approval Process: Often approved within 24-48 hours
- Flexible Health Guidelines: Accepts conditions others decline or heavily rate
- Simplified Application: Just 5-10 health questions for most products
- Final Expense Expertise: Nearly 130 years specializing in accessible coverage
- Age Flexibility: Coverage available up to age 85
- Midwest Values: Kansas City-based with straightforward service
- Preneed Options: Direct assignment to funeral homes is available
- Reliable Claims: Consistent payment history over decades
- A Financial Rating: Strong stability from A.M. Best
When Fidelity is the Smart Choice
You Have Pre-Existing Health Conditions
Perfect Fit: Fidelity’s flexible underwriting accepts conditions like diabetes, heart disease, COPD, and cancer history that might complicate traditional underwriting. Where others decline or heavily rate, Fidelity often approves with reasonable pricing.
You Want Coverage Quickly Without Medical Exams
Fast Process: Fidelity’s simplified issue products require no medical exam, no blood work, no paramedical visit. Answer a few health questions and get approved within 24-48 hours in most cases. Ideal when time matters.
You Need Final Expense Coverage
Core Specialty: Fidelity built its reputation on final expense insurance for working families. The company understands funeral planning needs and offers coverage amounts ($2K-$50K) perfectly sized for burial expenses. Simplified process respects seniors’ time and health situations.
You’re Older (Ages 65-85)
Senior-Focused: Fidelity specializes in serving older applicants up to age 85. The company’s underwriting reflects realistic expectations for senior health, making coverage accessible even in your 70s and 80s.
Advantages of Choosing North American
Key insight: North American’s strengths center on comprehensive product breadth, competitive pricing for healthy applicants, and high coverage capacity—ideal for traditional life insurance planning with strong health profiles.
North American’s Core Advantages
- Comprehensive Product Suite: Term, whole life, universal life, indexed UL options
- Competitive Pricing: Top-tier rates for standard and preferred health classes
- High Coverage Capacity: Multi-million dollar policies available
- Multiple Health Classes: Rewards excellent health with significant savings
- Cash Value Options: IUL products with market-linked growth potential
- Conversion Privileges: Convert term policies to permanent coverage
- Strong Financial Rating: A+ Superior rating from A.M. Best
- 139-Year History: Proven stability through multiple economic cycles
- Sammons Financial Backing: Additional resources and stability
- Nationwide Availability: Licensed in all 50 states plus D.C.
When North American is the Smart Choice
You’re in Excellent Health
Best Rates: North American’s multiple health classes reward excellent health with significantly lower premiums. If you’re healthy, don’t smoke, have a good family history, and maintain a healthy weight, North Americans’ preferred plus rates can be among the lowest available.
You Need High Coverage Amounts
High Capacity: North American accommodates coverage needs from $100K to several million dollars. Ideal for business owners, estate planning, mortgage protection, or income replacement needs requiring substantial coverage.
You Want Cash Value Growth Potential
IUL Expertise: North American’s indexed universal life products offer cash value accumulation linked to market indexes. Multiple index options, competitive caps, and flexible premium payments. Ideal for those viewing life insurance as both protection and potential wealth accumulation.
You Need Comprehensive Product Options
Full Portfolio: North American offers solutions for virtually any life insurance need—term for temporary protection, guaranteed UL for permanent coverage, IUL for growth, traditional whole life for guarantees. One carrier can serve evolving needs over decades.
Making Your Decision: Which Company is Right for You?
Key insight: The right choice depends entirely on your situation—both companies excel in their respective niches, and the best fit depends on matching company strengths to your specific needs.
Decision Framework
Choose Fidelity If:
- You need final expense coverage
- You have health conditions
- You want no medical exam
- You need fast approval
- You’re age 65-85
- You want simplified process
- You need $2K-$50K coverage
Choose North American If:
- You’re in excellent health
- You need high coverage amounts
- You want term life insurance
- You want cash value growth
- You need comprehensive options
- You want the best rates for health
- You need flexible permanent coverage
Common Decision Scenarios
| Your Situation | Better First Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| 35-year-old, needs $500K term, healthy | North American | Competitive term rates, high capacity |
| 62-year-old, wants $15K burial, diabetes | Fidelity | Final expense expert, flexible underwriting |
| 45-year-old, needs $1M with cash value | North American | IUL expertise, high coverage capacity |
| 70-year-old, wants coverage fast, COPD | Fidelity | Fast approval, accepts health conditions |
| 28-year-old professional, excellent health | North American | Best rates for preferred plus health |
The Smart Approach: Compare Both
Why choose without comparing? The smartest strategy is obtaining quotes from both Fidelity and North American for your specific situation. Pricing and offerings can vary significantly based on your unique profile. What matters most is:
- Which company offers better rates for YOUR specific age, health, and coverage needs
- Which products align with YOUR specific goals
- Which application process suits YOUR timeline and preferences
- Which underwriting approach works with YOUR health profile
Working with an independent agent who represents both companies ensures you get an objective comparison and the best possible outcome.
Important Considerations
Don’t choose based on company name or reputation alone. Both Fidelity and North American are reputable, financially sound companies with proven track records. Your decision should be driven by:
- Which products fit your specific needs
- Which offers better pricing for your profile
- Which application process matches your preferences
- Which company is designed to serve people in your situation
- How your health profile fits with each company’s underwriting
Both companies will reliably honor their commitments—choose based on practical fit, not brand loyalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which company has better financial ratings?
North American holds an A+ (Superior) rating from A.M. Best, while Fidelity has an A (Excellent) rating. Both ratings indicate strong financial health and claims-paying ability. North American’s higher rating provides additional confidence, but both companies are financially sound and reliable.
Can I get life insurance without a medical exam?
Yes, Fidelity specializes in no-exam options through simplified issue and guaranteed issue products. Most Fidelity final expense policies require no medical exam—just answer a few health questions. North American typically requires medical exams for full underwriting to offer their best rates.
Which company is better for someone with diabetes?
Fidelity typically offers better options for applicants with diabetes through flexible underwriting guidelines and simplified issue products. North American may offer coverage but usually at higher rates through traditional underwriting. For diabetes and most chronic conditions, Fidelity is generally the better choice.
Who is cheaper—Fidelity or North American?
It depends on your health and coverage type. North American typically offers better rates for healthy applicants seeking term or permanent coverage. Fidelity offers competitive rates for final expense coverage, especially for those with health conditions. Get quotes from both for your specific situation.
How fast can I get approved?
Fidelity often approves simplified issue applications within 24-48 hours with no medical exam needed. North Americans’ approval timeline is typically 1-3 weeks, depending on medical exam scheduling and results. If speed is critical, Fidelity has the advantage.
Does North American offer high coverage limits?
Yes, North American can accommodate coverage from $100K to several million dollars, making it ideal for substantial coverage needs. Fidelity focuses on final expense coverage ($2K-$50K). For high coverage amounts, North American is the clear choice.
Can I convert term life insurance to permanent coverage?
North American offers conversion privileges on their term policies, allowing you to convert to permanent coverage without new underwriting. This is valuable if your health changes. Fidelity focuses on final expense products rather than term insurance with conversion options.
Ready to Compare Fidelity and North American for Your Situation?
Don’t guess which company is better for you—let’s get you actual quotes from both Fidelity and North American so you can make an informed decision based on real rates and coverage options tailored to your specific needs.
Free comparison quotes – Independent advice on both companies
About InsuranceBrokers USA
As independent insurance brokers, we represent both Fidelity Life and North American Company, allowing us to provide objective comparisons and help you choose the company that best fits your specific situation. We have extensive experience placing policies with both carriers and understand their respective strengths and specialties.
Our Comprehensive Services Include:
- Side-by-side comparison of Fidelity and North American quotes
- Objective analysis of which company fits your needs
- Application assistance for either company
- Access to additional carriers beyond Fidelity and North American
- Ongoing service and policy reviews
- No-cost consultation and quote comparison
Disclaimer: This comparison provides educational information about Fidelity Life Association (Fidelity Security Life) and North American Company for Life and Health Insurance for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance, financial, or legal advice. Information is current as of 2025, but insurance products, pricing, ratings, and company details are subject to change. Actual rates, approval times, product availability, and coverage options vary significantly based on individual circumstances, including age, health, state of residence, coverage amount, and other factors. The rate ranges and comparisons provided are approximate and for illustrative purposes—your actual quotes may differ substantially. Neither company is universally “better”—the right choice depends on your specific needs, situation, and preferences. We encourage working with independent insurance professionals who can provide personalized quotes from multiple carriers. This content should not be your sole basis for choosing life insurance—consult with licensed professionals for guidance specific to your situation.
