Table of Contents
- What Sets Kemper Life Apart?
- How Financially Strong Is Kemper?
- What Insurance Products Does Kemper Offer?
- How Does Kemper’s Guaranteed Issue Work?
- What’s the Application Experience Like?
- What Will Kemper Life Insurance Cost?
- How Do Customers Rate Kemper’s Service?
- What Are Kemper’s Strengths and Weaknesses?
- Where Is Kemper Life Available?
- Who Are Kemper’s Main Competitors?
- Should You Choose Kemper Life Insurance?
What Sets Kemper Life Apart?
Kemper Life Insurance represents a strategic business decision that sets it apart from traditional life insurance providers. While most major carriers compete across the full spectrum of life insurance products, Kemper has deliberately focused on guaranteed issue and simplified underwriting markets, creating a specialized niche that serves specific customer needs.
Key insight: Kemper’s approach reflects a fundamental trade-off in the insurance industry. By concentrating on no-exam policies and guaranteed issue coverage, they can serve customers with health challenges who might struggle elsewhere, but this focus means they don’t compete on price for healthy applicants seeking traditional coverage.
Bottom Line
Kemper Life operates as a specialized provider focusing on guaranteed issue and simplified underwriting rather than competing as a full-service life insurance company, making them particularly valuable for applicants with health concerns.
Founded in 1990 as Unitrin until acquiring Kemper rights in 2010, the company traces deeper roots back to 1919. As part of Kemper Corporation with approximately $13 billion in assets, Kemper Life serves over 4.7 million policies through 22,000 agents and brokers across multiple insurance lines.
The company’s business model centers on serving customers who may face challenges in the traditional life insurance market, including individuals with chronic health conditions, older applicants, and those seeking coverage without medical exams. This focus has shaped their entire product portfolio and underwriting approach.
How Financially Strong Is Kemper?
Financial stability represents a critical consideration for life insurance, as policies may need to pay out decades after purchase. Kemper’s financial picture presents a generally positive outlook with some important nuances to understand.
“Kemper Corporation’s subsidiaries generally hold solid financial strength ratings, indicating a stable ability to meet their obligations. Kemper Life & Health companies typically receive ratings in the ‘A’ range (Excellent) from AM Best.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team
Kemper maintains an A- rating from AM Best, indicating excellent financial strength and ability to meet policyholder obligations. This rating reflects strong capitalization, solid operating performance, and appropriate risk management practices across their business operations.
Moody’s Investors Service changed Kemper’s outlook from negative to stable in 2024, suggesting improved financial trajectory and reduced concerns about near-term rating changes. A stable outlook indicates that significant rating modifications are unlikely in the immediate future.
Financial Strength Overview
| Rating Agency | Current Rating | Outlook/Trend |
|---|---|---|
| AM Best | A- (Excellent) | Strong Financial Position |
| Moody’s | — | Stable (Changed from Negative) |
| Better Business Bureau | A+ (Accredited) | Strong Business Practices |
Kemper Corporation reported total assets exceeding $13 billion, providing substantial backing for their life insurance operations. The company’s diversified insurance business helps provide stability through multiple revenue streams, though this diversification also means life insurance isn’t their sole focus.
Key Takeaways
- A- rating from AM Best indicates strong financial stability
- Moody’s outlook improved from negative to stable in 2024
- Part of larger Kemper Corporation with $13+ billion in assets
- Strong backing for policyholder obligations and claims payments
What Insurance Products Does Kemper Offer?
Kemper Life’s product portfolio reflects their strategic focus on simplified underwriting and guaranteed issue coverage rather than comprehensive traditional life insurance offerings. Understanding what they do and don’t offer helps set appropriate expectations.
Term Life Insurance
Kemper offers term life insurance with coverage ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. However, their term policies differ significantly from traditional carriers in that they focus on simplified underwriting rather than fully medically underwritten coverage. Term options include 10, 20, and 30-year periods, with the potential to convert to permanent coverage.
Whole Life Insurance
Their whole life insurance provides permanent coverage with level premiums and cash value accumulation at a fixed rate. These policies offer optional riders for additional cost, though specific rider details are limited in public information and require direct contact with agents.
Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
This represents Kemper’s flagship offering – guaranteed issue policies available to applicants aged 3 to 80 without medical exams or health questions. Coverage accumulates cash value at guaranteed rates, providing permanent protection regardless of health status.
“Kemper excels in the guaranteed issue market because they understand that traditional underwriting often excludes people who most need life insurance protection. Their entire business model centers on serving customers other carriers might decline.”
– Insurance Market Analysis
What Kemper Doesn’t Offer
Notable limitations include the absence of fully medically underwritten traditional policies that could provide lower rates for healthy applicants. Kemper also doesn’t offer universal life insurance, indexed universal life, or variable life products commonly found with larger carriers.
The company’s underwriting companies include United Insurance Company of America, The Reliable Life Insurance Company, Union National Life Insurance Company, and Mutual Savings Life Insurance Company, which actually evaluate applications and set rates for policies.
How Does Kemper’s Guaranteed Issue Work?
Kemper’s guaranteed issue life insurance represents their core specialization, designed specifically for individuals who may struggle to qualify for traditional coverage due to health concerns or age.
Guaranteed Acceptance Features
Guaranteed issue policies from Kemper require no medical exams, no health questions, and no medical records review. Applicants cannot be denied coverage as long as they meet basic eligibility requirements: ages 3-80, not currently hospitalized, not in nursing homes, not receiving in-home care, and not terminally ill.
Coverage amounts typically range from $5,000 to $25,000, with some variations by state and age. These amounts align with final expense needs rather than full income replacement, making them suitable for burial costs, small debts, and modest legacy planning.
Graded Death Benefits
Like most guaranteed issue policies, Kemper’s coverage includes graded death benefits for the first two years. If the insured dies from natural causes during this period, beneficiaries typically receive a return of premiums paid plus interest rather than the full death benefit. Accidental death usually pays full benefits immediately.
Bottom Line
Kemper’s guaranteed issue coverage provides accessible life insurance for individuals with serious health conditions who cannot qualify elsewhere, though premiums are significantly higher than traditional policies.
Cash Value Accumulation
Guaranteed issue policies from Kemper accumulate cash value at guaranteed rates, providing living benefits through policy loans and cash surrenders. However, cash value growth is typically modest compared to traditional whole life policies due to the higher risk profile of guaranteed issue coverage.
Premium Structure
Premiums are level throughout the policy’s life and based solely on age at issue and coverage amount. Smokers and non-smokers pay identical rates, reflecting the simplified underwriting approach that doesn’t differentiate based on lifestyle factors.
What’s the Application Experience Like?
Kemper’s application process prioritizes simplicity and accessibility, reflecting their focus on serving customers who may have struggled with traditional insurance applications elsewhere.
The company does not offer online quotes or applications for life insurance products. Instead, applicants must work with local agents or call customer service directly. This agent-based approach allows for personalized guidance but eliminates the convenience of online shopping that many consumers expect.
Application Steps
- Contact a local Kemper agent or call customer service
- Discuss coverage needs and product options
- Complete application (simplified for guaranteed issue)
- Submit required identification and initial premium
- Receive policy documents upon approval
For guaranteed issue products, the application process typically takes only minutes, with approval often provided immediately or within days. Traditional term or whole life products may require more extensive underwriting, including medical exams depending on coverage amounts and applicant age.
Key Takeaways
- No online applications available – must work with agents
- Guaranteed issue applications are extremely simple
- Quick approval process for most products
- Local agent support provides personalized guidance
- Limited online information requires direct contact for details
What Will Kemper Life Insurance Cost?
Kemper’s pricing reflects their specialized market focus, with premiums typically higher than traditional fully-underwritten policies but competitive within the guaranteed issue and simplified underwriting segments.
For guaranteed issue coverage, rates are determined solely by age at issue, with identical premiums for smokers and non-smokers. This simplified pricing approach eliminates health-based rate variations but results in higher costs for healthier applicants who could qualify for preferred rates elsewhere.
Cost Factors
- Age: Primary determinant for guaranteed issue rates
- Coverage Amount: Higher death benefits increase premiums proportionally
- Product Type: Guaranteed issue costs more than traditional coverage
- Gender: May affect rates for some products
- State: Some variation in pricing by location
“Kemper’s value proposition isn’t about always having the lowest premiums – it’s about providing coverage access to people who might be declined elsewhere. For this market, their pricing is often the only option available.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team
Premium Examples
While specific rates vary by state and individual circumstances, guaranteed issue coverage for a 65-year-old might range from $40-80 monthly for $10,000 in coverage. These rates reflect the higher risk associated with no-exam policies and the convenience of guaranteed acceptance.
For comparison purposes, a healthy 65-year-old might pay significantly less for traditional coverage elsewhere, but those savings disappear if health conditions prevent qualification for standard rates. Kemper’s value emerges specifically when traditional options aren’t available.
To obtain accurate pricing, contact Kemper agents directly as they don’t provide online quote tools for life insurance products. This approach allows for personalized recommendations based on specific health situations and coverage needs.
How Do Customers Rate Kemper’s Service?
Customer feedback for Kemper Life presents a complex picture that varies significantly between product lines and individual experiences, with notably different patterns between their life insurance and other insurance operations.
Kemper Corporation maintains A+ BBB accreditation, indicating strong business practices and commitment to resolving customer concerns. However, consumer review patterns suggest varying experiences across different insurance products and service interactions.
Customer Service Challenges
NerdWallet analysis reveals that Kemper life insurance companies have drawn more complaints to state regulators than expected for companies of similar size over recent years. This elevated complaint volume represents a significant concern for potential policyholders.
Common customer concerns include communication difficulties, claim processing delays, and challenges reaching appropriate representatives for policy questions. Multiple reviews mention difficulty getting responses to calls and emails, particularly during claims situations.
“Kemper’s customer service issues appear concentrated in claims processing and communication responsiveness. While their financial strength is solid, service quality concerns should factor into decision-making for potential policyholders.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team
Service Access Methods
Kemper offers customer service through phone contact and email, but lacks live chat or mobile app functionality for life insurance customers. Claims can be initiated by sending forms to designated email addresses, though this process has drawn criticism for responsiveness.
Positive Aspects
Some customers report satisfactory experiences, particularly with initial policy purchases and agent interactions. The company’s long-standing market presence and financial stability provide confidence for those who value established operations.
Key Takeaways
- Higher than expected complaint volume to state regulators
- Communication challenges frequently mentioned in reviews
- A+ BBB rating indicates commitment to resolution processes
- Limited digital service options compared to modern carriers
- Mixed experiences vary significantly by individual circumstances
What Are Kemper’s Strengths and Weaknesses?
Understanding Kemper Life’s advantages and limitations helps determine whether their specialized approach aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
Advantages
- Guaranteed Issue Access: Coverage available regardless of health status for ages 3-80
- No Medical Exams: Simplified application process without health screenings
- Established Company: Nearly century-long track record with solid financial ratings
- Cash Value Growth: Guaranteed accumulation in whole life products
- Conversion Options: Term policies can convert to permanent coverage
- Wide Age Range: Coverage available from age 3 to 80
- Level Premiums: Rates remain constant throughout policy life
Disadvantages
- Higher Premiums: Significantly more expensive than traditional underwritten policies
- Limited Coverage Amounts: Maximum coverage typically $25,000-$250,000
- No Online Access: Cannot quote, apply, or manage policies online
- Limited State Availability: Only available in 27 states
- Customer Service Issues: Higher complaint volumes and communication challenges
- Graded Benefits: Reduced payouts for natural death in first two years
- Limited Product Range: No fully underwritten traditional policies for healthy applicants
Bottom Line
Kemper Life works best for individuals with health challenges who need guaranteed acceptance, but healthy applicants seeking traditional coverage or larger death benefits will likely find better value elsewhere.
Where Is Kemper Life Available?
Kemper Life Insurance operates in a limited geographic footprint compared to national carriers, with availability in only 27 states. This restricted presence means many potential customers cannot access their products regardless of their suitability.
Local agents are available in only 20 of the 27 states where products are sold, requiring customers in some areas to work with remote representatives or customer service for policy management and claims assistance.
Notable exclusions include major markets like California and New York, which represent significant portions of the U.S. life insurance market. This geographic limitation affects Kemper’s competitive position and potential customer base.
For residents in available states, coverage options and pricing may vary based on local regulations and market conditions. State-specific variations can affect both product features and premium structures, making direct agent contact necessary for accurate information.
Who Are Kemper’s Main Competitors?
Understanding how Kemper compares to other guaranteed issue and simplified underwriting providers helps contextualize their market position and value proposition.
Direct Competitors in Guaranteed Issue
- Colonial Penn: Extensive advertising presence with guaranteed acceptance but premium pricing
- Gerber Life: Strong brand recognition with competitive guaranteed issue options
- Mutual of Omaha: Excellent financial ratings with comprehensive guaranteed issue products
- Foresters Financial: Competitive simplified issue and guaranteed acceptance options
For families seeking broader life insurance options beyond guaranteed issue, exploring comprehensive carriers often provides better value. Our guide to the top life insurance companies offers detailed comparisons across traditional providers.
When health challenges limit traditional options, specialized programs for life insurance with pre-existing medical conditions provide alternative pathways to coverage beyond guaranteed issue products.
“The choice between Kemper and competitors often comes down to specific health situations, desired coverage amounts, and service preferences. While Kemper offers solid guaranteed issue options, they may not provide the best value in every situation.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team
For those who might qualify for simplified underwriting rather than guaranteed issue, options through no exam life insurance providers often provide better value with higher coverage limits and lower premiums.
Traditional Alternatives
Healthy applicants should also consider traditional fully-underwritten policies from major carriers, which typically offer significantly lower premiums and higher coverage limits. Even applicants with minor health conditions may qualify for standard or preferred rates that beat guaranteed issue pricing substantially.
Should You Choose Kemper Life Insurance?
Kemper Life Insurance works best for specific situations rather than serving as a universal solution for all life insurance needs.
Kemper Is Ideal If You:
- Have serious health conditions that prevent qualification elsewhere
- Need immediate coverage without medical exams or health questions
- Require smaller coverage amounts ($5,000-$25,000)
- Prefer guaranteed acceptance over potentially lower rates
- Live in one of the 27 states where they operate
- Value working with local agents for personalized service
- Need final expense or burial insurance coverage
Consider Alternatives If You:
- Are in good health and can qualify for traditional underwriting
- Need coverage amounts above $250,000
- Want the convenience of online quotes and applications
- Prioritize having the lowest possible premiums
- Prefer carriers with excellent customer service ratings
- Live in states where Kemper isn’t available
- Want comprehensive product options from one carrier
Bottom Line
Kemper Life provides valuable guaranteed issue coverage for individuals with health challenges who need immediate protection, but healthy applicants and those seeking larger amounts typically find better value with traditional carriers.
For families seeking comprehensive life insurance coverage or those in excellent health, exploring options through top-rated life insurance companies often yields better value and more comprehensive protection.
However, for the specific market Kemper serves – individuals needing accessible coverage despite health complications – their specialized approach provides genuine value that extends beyond simple premium comparison. The peace of mind from guaranteed acceptance often justifies higher costs when traditional options aren’t available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kemper Life Insurance financially stable?
Direct answer: Yes, Kemper maintains an A- rating from AM Best indicating excellent financial strength, with backing from Kemper Corporation’s $13+ billion in assets. Moody’s changed their outlook from negative to stable in 2024, suggesting improved financial trajectory.
Can I apply for Kemper life insurance online?
Direct answer: No, Kemper does not offer online applications or quotes for life insurance products. You must work with a local agent or call customer service directly to apply for coverage and receive pricing information.
What is the maximum coverage amount available from Kemper?
Direct answer: Kemper’s coverage limits vary by product type. Guaranteed issue policies typically max out at $25,000, while term life insurance can go up to $250,000. These limits are lower than many traditional carriers offer.
Does Kemper require medical exams for life insurance?
Direct answer: For guaranteed issue policies, no medical exams or health questions are required. However, their term and whole life products may require medical underwriting depending on coverage amounts and applicant age.
How do Kemper’s premiums compare to other companies?
Direct answer: Kemper’s premiums are typically higher than traditional fully-underwritten policies but competitive within the guaranteed issue market. Healthy applicants usually find better rates elsewhere, while those with health issues may find Kemper’s rates reasonable for guaranteed acceptance.
What states is Kemper Life Insurance available in?
Direct answer: Kemper operates in only 27 states, with local agents available in 20 of those states. Notable exclusions include California and New York. Contact Kemper directly to verify availability in your specific location.
Are there waiting periods with Kemper’s guaranteed issue policies?
Direct answer: Yes, like most guaranteed issue policies, Kemper includes graded death benefits for the first two years. During this period, natural death typically results in return of premiums plus interest rather than full death benefits. Accidental death usually pays full benefits immediately.
How do I file a claim with Kemper Life Insurance?
Direct answer: Claims can be initiated by sending forms to Kemper’s designated claims email address or contacting customer service. However, customer reviews frequently mention challenges with claim responsiveness and communication during the process.
