What It Signals

Copaxone (Glatiramer Acetate) is a disease-modifying therapy prescribed primarily for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Use signals that you have been diagnosed with MS and are taking an active, preventative approach to slow disease progression and reduce relapses. Multiple sclerosis is a serious, unpredictable neurological condition affecting the central nervous system. Unlike many chronic conditions that stabilize, MS typically progresses over time, though disease-modifying therapies like Copaxone can slow this process. Life insurers view disease-modifying therapy use favorably—it shows active disease management—but still evaluate MS carefully because of its progressive nature and unpredictability.

“Multiple sclerosis managed with Copaxone is a serious condition, but insurable with the right approach. Approval depends on disease type—RRMS is far more favorable than progressive forms. Disease stability over the past year is critical: fewer relapses, stable MRI findings, and minimal disability progression signal better control. Honest disclosure of all disease activity is absolutely essential.”

– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team

“MS underwriting requires a detailed neurological assessment. Insurers examine disease type, disease duration, relapse frequency, MRI findings, EDSS score, current medications, and functional limitations. They want to understand disease stability: are relapses becoming more frequent or less frequent? Is disability stable or progressing? Are there new MRI lesions? Copaxone use demonstrates active disease management, which helps, but doesn’t override concerns about active disease or rapid progression.”

– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team

MS Type and Duration

RRMS vs SPMS vs PPMS is the primary disease type distinction. How long you’ve had MS matters. Recently diagnosed MS that’s already stable is better than long-standing MS with frequent relapses. Disease type has the largest impact on underwriting.

Relapse Frequency (Past 12 Months)

No relapses in the past year are excellent. One relapse per year is acceptable. Two or more relapses annually signal inadequate disease control. Recent relapses (within the past 3-6 months) raise significant concerns about disease activity.

MRI Findings (Lesion Load and Activity)

A stable lesion count on recent MRI is favorable. New lesions or growing lesions signal active disease. New gadolinium-enhancing lesions indicate recent inflammation. Stable MRI over 12 months demonstrates disease stability. Insurers often request recent brain and spinal cord MRI results.

EDSS Score (Expanded Disability Status Scale)

EDSS 0-2 (minimal disability) is most favorable. EDSS 3-6 (moderate disability) requires a detailed evaluation. EDSS 6+ (significant disability, may use walking aids) makes approval difficult. Stable EDSS is better than progressive scores. Ask your neurologist for your current EDSS score.

Disease-Modifying Therapy Compliance

Consistent Copaxone use demonstrates commitment to disease management. Switching medications frequently or non-compliance raises underwriting concerns. Insurers look favorably on applicants taking disease-modifying therapy as prescribed and staying with it long-term.

Cognitive or Other Complications

MS affecting cognition, vision, or other major functions complicates underwriting. Secondary complications from MS are evaluated separately. Well-documented, managed complications result in better outcomes than undisclosed or poorly managed ones.

This Is Critical

Incomplete or dishonest disclosure on MS applications is a primary reason for denial and policy rescission. Insurers will obtain your neurological records, MRI reports, and disability assessments. Any omissions or misstatements will be discovered. Policy rescission after approval means your family receives no benefit, and all premiums paid are forfeited. Complete honesty is absolutely essential.

“Disclosure of MS requires absolute honesty about disease type, disease activity, disability level, and functional limitations. Do not minimize symptoms or omit relapses. Do not downplay your EDSS score. Insurers verify everything through medical records. Dishonesty discovered during underwriting results in immediate denial. Dishonesty discovered after approval results in policy rescission—your family gets nothing.”

– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team

MS Diagnosis Date and Disease Type

Report exactly when you were diagnosed and whether you have RRMS, SPMS, or PPMS. Do not guess or minimize. Your neurologist’s records will verify this. Disease type is critical to underwriting.

Current EDSS Score

Ask your neurologist for your current EDSS score. Provide the exact number. Do not estimate or downplay your disability level. Your medical records will confirm this, and insurers verify it carefully.

Relapse History (Past 12 Months)

Report all MS-related relapses in the past year, including dates and symptoms. Do not omit or minimize relapses. Provide medical documentation of emergency room visits or hospitalizations related to relapses.

Most Recent MRI Results

Provide reports from your most recent brain and/or spinal cord MRI, including lesion count, new lesion information, and gadolinium enhancement findings. If your MRI is older than 12 months, insurers will likely request a new one.

Current Disease-Modifying Therapy

Disclose that you’re on Copaxone, how long you’ve been on it, and any other DMTs you’ve tried. Include any previous treatment changes and why they occurred. Medication history shows a disease management approach.

Functional Limitations and Disability Status

Honestly describe your current functional limitations. Can you work? Do you use mobility aids? Do you have cognitive symptoms? Does fatigue limit activities? Be completely honest. Insurers verify through medical records and may request additional assessment.

Any Secondary Complications (Cognitive, Vision, etc.)

Report any MS-related cognitive impairment, vision problems, or other secondary complications. These affect underwriting but don’t automatically result in denial. Complete disclosure prevents rescission risk.

“MS approval depends heavily on disease type and stability. RRMS with few relapses, stable MRI findings, and minimal disability has reasonable approval odds. SPMS is more difficult. PPMS is very difficult. The key is demonstrating disease stability: no recent relapses, stable MRI, stable or improving disability. On disease-modifying therapy like Copaxone signals active management, which helps significantly. Disease-modifying therapy combined with stable disease indicators improves approval prospects substantially.”

– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team

RRMS, Stable on Copaxone, Few Relapses, Minimal Disability

RRMS type, on Copaxone for 2+ years, fewer than one relapse per year (ideally none in the past year), stable MRI with no new lesions, EDSS 0-2 (minimal disability), sees neurologist regularly. This applicant has good approval odds across most carriers at moderate rate premiums (25-50% higher than standard). This is the most favorable MS profile for life insurance.

RRMS With Occasional Relapses (One Per Year)

Approval is possible but with fewer carriers and slightly higher rates (35-60% increase). One relapse per year suggests disease control but not optimal control. Waiting a year without relapses can significantly improve your underwriting.

RRMS With Moderate Disability (EDSS 3-4)

Approval is possible if the disease is stable (no recent relapses, stable MRI). Moderate disability complicates underwriting more than high relapse frequency. Approval odds are moderate; rates are typically 40-75%+ higher than standard. Stability matters more than current disability level.

Recently Diagnosed RRMS, Now Stable

Newly diagnosed RRMS that’s already stable on Copaxone with no relapses can get approved. A recent diagnosis is less concerning than a long-standing active disease. Rates depend on current disability level, but are often reasonable if the disease is controlled early.

RRMS With Frequent Relapses (2+ Per Year)

Multiple relapses annually signal inadequate disease control. Most carriers decline or offer extreme rates. Solution: work with your neurologist to optimize treatment, potentially switching to a more aggressive disease-modifying therapy. Waiting 12 months without relapses after treatment optimization, then reapplying, often results in approval.

SPMS (Secondary Progressive MS)

Approval is difficult but possible if the disease is stable. Very few carriers will quote SPMS. Niche/specialty carriers may approve at high rates (75-150%+ increase). Disease progression is the main concern, even without recent relapses. Decline is likely from mainstream carriers.

PPMS (Primary Progressive MS)

Approval is very difficult. Most carriers will decline PPMS applicants regardless of disease stability. Disability is typically higher, and disease is inherently progressive. Very few niche carriers will consider it, and rates are extreme (if approved at all). This represents severe disease from a life insurance perspective.

Recent Relapses or Active Disease

Recent relapses (within the past 3-6 months) signal active disease. Applicants in relapse or recovering from relapse typically get declined. Waiting 6-12 months after the last relapse to demonstrate stability dramatically improves approval odds and rates.

“MS applicants pay substantially more than standard rates. Rate increases vary dramatically by disease type and stability. RRMS with good stability may see 25-50% increases. SPMS typically sees 75-150%+ increases. Disease stability is the primary pricing driver; disease type is secondary. The key is demonstrating stable disease: fewer relapses, stable MRI, stable disability. Pricing is substantial but reasonable for stable RRMS applicants.”

– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team

RRMS, Stable, Few Relapses, Minimal Disability

Rate increase: 25-50% above standard. Example: A 45-year-old who would pay $50/month at standard rates might pay $65-80/month with stable RRMS. This is a moderate impact and represents the most favorable MS scenario.

RRMS With Occasional Relapses or Moderate Disability

Rate increase: 40-75% above standard. Example: The same applicant might pay $85-125/month. Increased disease activity or disability results in substantially higher rates.

SPMS (Secondary Progressive)

Rate increase: 75-150%+ above standard or possible decline. Example: The same applicant might pay $150-250/month or be declined. SPMS represents a substantially increased mortality risk from an insurance perspective.

PPMS (Primary Progressive)

Rate increase: 150%+ or likely decline. PPMS applicants rarely get approved through standard channels. Specialty carriers, if available, charge extreme premiums or decline entirely. PPMS is very difficult for life insurance.

Impact of Recent Disease Activity

Recent relapses or active disease add 25-75% to rates. Waiting 6-12 months after the last relapse to demonstrate stability can cut rates substantially. Demonstrating stable disease is worth the wait in many situations.

Demonstrate Disease Stability First

If you’ve had a recent relapse, wait 6-12 months to demonstrate recovery and stability before applying. If your disease has been active, work with your neurologist to optimize treatment. Demonstrating 12+ months of stability (no relapses, stable MRI) dramatically improves approval odds and rates. Waiting is often the best strategy.

Get Current Neurological Records and MRI

Contact your neurologist and get copies of: your most recent MRI report (brain and spinal cord if available), your current EDSS score, your relapse history for the past year, and any notes on disease activity. If your MRI is older than 12 months, discuss getting a new one with your neurologist before applying—insurers will request recent imaging anyway.

If on RRMS, Ensure Copaxone Compliance

Being on disease-modifying therapy consistently is important. If you’re considering switching treatments, discuss timing with your neurologist. Staying on Copaxone (or other DMT) throughout the application process shows commitment to disease management, which helps underwriting.

Provide All Medical Documentation Upfront

Submit copies of your most recent MRI reports, neurologist notes, EDSS assessment, and relapse history. Complete documentation speeds underwriting and demonstrates transparency. Incomplete applications get held for requests, delaying decisions.

Be Completely Honest About Disease Activity and Disability

Don’t minimize relapses, downplay disability, or omit functional limitations. Insurers verify through medical records. Honesty prevents denial and rescission risk. Full disclosure of disease severity, disability level, and current functional status is essential.

Respond Quickly to Any Requests

MS underwriting is complex and may require additional information or medical records from your neurologist. Respond quickly to any insurer requests. Delays extend underwriting timelines. Providing complete information upfront speeds the process.

Understand the Decline Reason

Request a detailed explanation from the insurer. Common reasons: frequent relapses, progressive disease type, and high disability level. If the reason is modifiable (active relapses, recent disease activity), waiting 6-12 months to demonstrate stability may allow reapplication with approval.

Try Specialty MS Carriers

Some carriers specialize in MS and other neurological conditions. If declined by mainstream carriers, specialty carriers may approve at higher rates. Working with a broker experienced in MS cases is critical for accessing these options.

Will I be declined because I have MS?

Direct answer: Not if you have stable RRMS. Approval depends on disease type and stability.

RRMS with few relapses and a stable MRI has reasonable approval odds. SPMS is difficult. PPMS is very difficult. The primary question insurers ask is: Is your disease stable? Fewer relapses, stable imaging, and consistent disability (not worsening) all support approval. Active disease or frequent relapses make approval unlikely.

How much more will I pay with MS?

Direct answer: Substantially—typically 25-75%+ more than standard rates, depending on disease type and stability.

Stable RRMS: 25-50% increase. RRMS with frequent relapses: 50-100%+ increase. SPMS: 75-150%+ increase or decline. PPMS: 150%+ or likely decline. This reflects MS’s serious, progressive nature. The more stable your disease, the lower your rate of increase.

Does disease type really matter that much?

Direct answer: Yes, absolutely. Disease type is the primary underwriting factor for MS applicants.

RRMS is insurable with reasonable rates. SPMS makes underwriting much more difficult. PPMS is very difficult. Progressive forms represent inherently worsening disease, which insurers view as high-risk. If you have RRMS that’s stable, your prospects are much better than if you have progressive MS, regardless of current disability.

What’s EDSS, and why do insurers care?

Direct answer: EDSS (Expanded Disability Status Scale) measures your disability level. Insurers use it to assess your functional status and mortality risk.

EDSS 0-2 (minimal disability) is most favorable. EDSS 3-6 (moderate disability) requires closer evaluation. EDSS 6+ (significant disability) makes approval difficult. Ask your neurologist for your current EDSS score before applying. Know this number—insurers will verify it.

Should I wait before applying?

Direct answer: Usually yes, if you’ve had recent disease activity. Waiting to demonstrate stability improves approval odds and rates dramatically.

If you had a relapse in the past 6 months, waiting 6-12 months allows you to demonstrate recovery and stability. If your disease has been active (frequent relapses), waiting for a stable period (12+ months without relapses) can mean the difference between decline and approval. Patience often results in better outcomes.

Can I hide a relapse or minimize my disability?

Direct answer: No. Do not attempt this—it results in denial or policy rescission.

Insurers obtain your complete neurological records, MRI reports, and disability assessments. Omitting relapses or downplaying disability is application fraud. If discovered during underwriting, you’re declined. If discovered after approval, your policy is rescinded, and your family gets no benefit. Complete honesty is always the safest approach, even if rates are higher.

How long does underwriting take with MS?

Direct answer: Typically 4-6 weeks. May extend to 8-10 weeks if additional medical records are needed.

MS underwriting is more complex than many conditions. Insurers typically need recent neurological records, MRI reports, and possibly disability assessments. Providing all documentation upfront speeds up underwriting. Incomplete information or the need for additional records extends timelines significantly.

Will I need medical testing?

Direct answer: Yes, very likely. Neurological records, recent MRI, and disability assessment are nearly always required.

Insurers routinely request records from your neurologist, copies of recent brain and spinal cord MRI reports, and documentation of your current EDSS score and functional status. If your MRI is older than 12 months, insurers may order a new one. Testing is standard and required for accurate MS underwriting.

What if I have SPMS or PPMS?

Direct answer: Approval is difficult but not impossible. SPMS is challenging; PPMS is very challenging.

SPMS applicants face a decline from most mainstream carriers. Specialty carriers may approve at high rates (75-150%+). PPMS applicants face a decline from most carriers. Very few specialty carriers will consider PPMS, and rates are extreme. Disease-modifying therapy and demonstrated stability help, but don’t overcome the inherent progressive nature of these conditions from an underwriting perspective.

Will my insurance rates change after I get the policy?

Direct answer: No. Once approved and in force, your premiums remain locked in regardless of future disease changes.

Any future relapses, disease progression, disability changes, or MS complications after the policy issue won’t affect your rates or benefits. Lock in coverage now. Your rates stay the same for the life of your policy. This is particularly valuable given MS’s progressive nature—your coverage is protected even if the disease progresses.