Taking Humalog shows you’re actively managing complex diabetes. Life insurance provides financial protection for your family. This guide covers what insurers evaluate, realistic approval expectations, actual rate ranges, and how to navigate the application successfully.
Approval Likelihood
Rate Impact
Underwriting Timeline
Medical Testing
What Humalog Use Signals to Insurers
The Medical Reality
Humalog (Insulin Lispro) is a rapid-acting insulin used in diabetes management. Humalog use indicates either Type 1 diabetes or advanced Type 2 diabetes requiring insulin therapy. Unlike oral diabetes medications, insulin indicates a more complex or advanced disease state requiring direct blood glucose management. Life insurance companies treat insulin-dependent diabetes as more complex than oral medication management, but still insurable with appropriate underwriting and control documentation.
“Insulin-dependent diabetes is insurable. The key distinction for underwriters is not the insulin itself, but how well your diabetes is controlled. An applicant with excellent HbA1c control and no complications has a strong underwriting profile. HbA1c below 7% with insulin therapy is routinely approved.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team
Why Insurers View Insulin Differently
Insulin use signals that blood sugar management is more complex than oral medications can handle. This might indicate Type 1 diabetes (where insulin is always required), or Type 2 diabetes that has progressed beyond the effectiveness of pills. Underwriters don’t penalize people for using insulin if medically necessary, but they do scrutinize glucose control more carefully. The critical question is: “How well is this diabetes controlled with insulin?”
What Makes Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Insurable
Excellent HbA1c Control: HbA1c below 7% is preferred; this demonstrates sustained good glucose management. Consistent Monitoring: Regular glucose checks and medical visits show active disease management. No Severe Complications: Absence of kidney disease, neuropathy, or serious hypoglycemic episodes. Medication Adherence: Consistent insulin use with proper technique and timing. Stable Disease Duration: Years of stable control is stronger than recent control.
Type 1 vs Type 2: Different Underwriting
Type 1 Diabetes + Humalog
What Insurers Know: Type 1 is autoimmune, not lifestyle-related. Insulin is always required. Underwriting focuses on control quality and complication history, not insulin use itself.
Approval Reality: Type 1 diabetes is insurable, but underwriting is more careful. HbA1c below 7% is strongly preferred. The history of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or severe hypoglycemia complicates underwriting significantly.
Rates typically: 25-50% higher than standard for well-controlled Type 1
Type 2 Diabetes + Humalog
What Insurers Know: Type 2 requiring insulin indicates disease progression. This suggests previous oral medication failure or a significant duration with advanced disease. Underwriting scrutinizes why insulin became necessary.
Approval Reality: Approvable but more selective. Good HbA1c control on insulin strengthens the application. Any indication of compliance issues or poor control is a red flag.
Rates typically: 25-75% higher than standard, depending on control and comorbidities
Important Disclosure Point
You must clearly state on your application whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. This distinction matters significantly to underwriters. Misrepresenting your diabetes type could be treated as application fraud. Be completely honest about your diabetes classification.
What Underwriters Actually Evaluate
The Underwriting Checklist for Humalog Users
Current HbA1c
Below 7% is preferred. This is the most important single factor.
Diabetes Duration
Longer duration with stable control strengthens the application
Insulin Regimen
Number of daily injections, use of pump, consistency of approach
Monitoring Frequency
Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose or continuous glucose monitor use
Hypoglycemic Episodes
Severe/frequent episodes raise underwriting concerns significantly
Complications Status
Absence of kidney, eye, or nerve complications is preferred
What Makes an Application Stronger
- HbA1c below 7% for multiple years, consistently in range
- No severe hypoglycemic episodes requiring hospitalization
- Never had diabetic ketoacidosis (Type 1) or hospitalization for hyperglycemia (Type 2)
- No diabetic complications: kidney disease, neuropathy, retinopathy, cardiovascular disease
- Regular medical care with an endocrinologist or diabetes specialist
- Active glucose monitoring (daily self-checks or continuous glucose monitor)
- Consistent medication adherence with no missed insulin doses
- No smoking; healthy weight relative to height
- No hypertension or high cholesterol requiring medication
HbA1c: The Most Important Factor
HbA1c (hemoglobin A1c) is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. For insulin-dependent diabetes, HbA1c is the single most important underwriting factor. It tells insurers whether your insulin therapy is actually working to control blood sugar. An HbA1c below 7% indicates excellent control. Above 9% raises serious concerns. Even small differences in HbA1c significantly impact approval odds and rates.
Below 7%
Excellent Control
This is the target. Strengthens the application significantly. Represents excellent insulin management.
7-8%
Acceptable
Approval possible. Represents reasonable but not optimal control. Slight rate increase expected.
8-9%
Concerning
Approval difficult. Indicates inadequate insulin control. Significant rate increase or possible denial.
Above 9%
Likely Denial
Approval unlikely. Indicates poor insulin control and high complication risk. Wait and improve control.
If Your HbA1c Is Above 7%
Do not apply yet if your HbA1c is above 8%. Work with your diabetes care team on insulin adjustment, medication compliance, diet, or additional lifestyle changes. Most people can improve their HbA1c within 3-4 months of focused effort. The slight delay in applying is worth significantly better approval odds and rates. Once your HbA1c is consistently below 7%, your application will be much stronger.
Complete Disclosure Requirements
Full Honesty Is Mandatory
You must disclose your diabetes diagnosis, type (Type 1 or Type 2), current HbA1c, and all diabetes medications, including Humalog, on your life insurance application. Failing to disclose insulin-dependent diabetes could constitute application fraud and result in policy denial or cancellation. Insurance companies verify information through medical records and laboratory results. Honest disclosure is always the safest approach.
Information Insurers Will Request
Diabetes Classification
Type 1 or Type 2, age at diagnosis, and how long you’ve had diabetes
Current Medications
Humalog type and frequency of injections, any other diabetes medications (metformin, etc.)
Recent Lab Results
Most recent HbA1c, fasting glucose, kidney function tests (creatinine, eGFR)
Monitoring Practice
How often you check blood glucose, use of a continuous glucose monitor, frequency of doctor visits
Complications History
Any kidney disease, neuropathy, eye disease, cardiovascular disease, severe hypoglycemia episodes
Primary Care Physician
Name and contact information for medical record requests
How to Prepare Your Application
- Contact your doctor. Request your most recent HbA1c, fasting glucose, kidney function tests, and a summary of any diabetes complications or hospitalizations.
- Document your diabetes history. Write down the date of diagnosis, all insulin regimens you’ve used, and when each change occurred.
- Gather recent lab results. You’ll need HbA1c and glucose tests from the past 3 months, ideally, and trend data showing stability or improvement.
- List all current medications precisely. Include Humalog type (vial, pen, pump), injection frequency, and any other diabetes or non-diabetes medications.
- Be ready to discuss glucose monitoring. Document how often you check blood sugar and whether you use a continuous glucose monitor.
- Prepare a complications summary. If you’ve ever had diabetic complications, document your current status and treatment.
Getting Approved: Realistic Expectations
“Approval for insulin-dependent diabetes applicants is achievable with excellent HbA1c control and no complications. Rates are higher than for oral medication users, but coverage is obtainable. Underwriting is thorough because insulin therapy requires careful blood sugar management, but it’s not hostile. Insurers recognize well-controlled insulin-dependent diabetes as a medically manageable condition.”
– InsuranceBrokers USA – Management Team
The Approval Timeline
Application Submission
You complete the application with diabetes history, HbA1c, and insulin regimen details. Initial screening for completeness.
Medical Records Request
Insurer requests recent medical records, lab results, and a physician’s summary from your doctor.
Underwriting Review
Detailed underwriting analysis of HbA1c, complications history, and overall diabetes management.
Decision
Approval, conditional approval, or request for additional information. Most straightforward applications are completed in this timeframe.
Realistic Approval Outcomes
✓ Approval Likely
HbA1c below 7%, no complications, consistent insulin adherence, excellent glucose monitoring, no severe hypoglycemic episodes
⚠ Approval Possible but Harder
HbA1c 7-8%, well-managed comorbidity (hypertension on medication), good insulin compliance, resolved past complication
✗ Approval Unlikely Now
HbA1c above 8%, active complications (kidney disease, neuropathy), medication non-compliance, recent hospitalization for hyperglycemia
Pricing: What You’ll Actually Pay
Be Honest About Rates
Life insurance for insulin-dependent diabetes applicants is more expensive than for people taking oral diabetes medications. This reflects the medical reality that insulin-dependent diabetes requires more intensive management and carries higher complication risk if not controlled well. Rates vary based on HbA1c, complications history, and overall health. Conservative estimates: plan on 25-75% higher premiums than a standard applicant.
Excellent Control Profile
Estimated Rate: 25-35% higher than standard
HbA1c below 6.5%, insulin for 5+ years with stability, no complications, excellent monitoring, no hypoglycemic episodes.
Example: Standard $100/month becomes approximately $125-135/month
Good Control Profile
Estimated Rate: 35-50% higher than standard
HbA1c 6.5-7%, insulin for 2-5 years, no major complications, regular monitoring, mild hypoglycemia history.
Example: Standard $100/month becomes approximately $135-150/month
Acceptable Control Profile
Estimated Rate: 50-75% higher than standard
HbA1c 7-8%, insulin recently started or multiple regimen changes, managed comorbidity, minor complications being treated.
Example: Standard $100/month becomes approximately $150-175/month
Factors That Increase Your Rates
- HbA1c above 7%
- Recent diagnosis or insulin therapy
- History of severe hypoglycemic episodes requiring hospitalization
- Any diabetic complications: kidney disease, neuropathy, retinopathy, cardiovascular disease
- Type 1 diabetes with a history of diabetic ketoacidosis
- Hypertension requiring medication
- High cholesterol requiring medication
- Smoking status
- Overweight or obesity
Factors That Improve Your Rates
- HbA1c below 7% for multiple years
- Long-term diabetes with stable treatment (5+ years)
- No history of severe hypoglycemia
- Never had diabetic complications
- Excellent glucose self-monitoring practices
- Use of a continuous glucose monitor
- No other chronic health conditions
- Healthy weight and non-smoker
- Younger age at application
Application Strategy for Success
Key Principles
- HbA1c Optimization: Before applying, prioritize getting HbA1c to its best possible level.
- Complete Documentation: Provide comprehensive medical records showing stable control.
- Transparency: Be completely honest about complications, history, and glucose control challenges.
- Timing: Apply when your HbA1c is excellent, not in crisis.
- Provider Support: Work with your doctor to present your case effectively.
Before You Apply: Strategic Checklist
Optimize Your HbA1c
If above 7%, work on insulin adjustment or compliance. Below 7% is strongly preferred. Give yourself 3-4 months if needed.
Get Recent Complete Lab Work
HbA1c and glucose within 1-2 months of application. Kidney function tests (creatinine, eGFR) within 6 months.
Document Your Insulin Management
Type of insulin, daily dose, frequency of self-monitoring, use of continuous glucose monitor, and number of glucose checks daily.
Get Physician Summary
Ask your doctor to write a brief clinical summary of your diabetes management, HbA1c trend, and any complications history.
Prepare Your Diabetes Story
Be ready to discuss diagnosis, insulin journey, daily management routine, and any challenges you’ve overcome in glucose control.
Choose Appropriate Coverage Amount
Request a coverage amount that is reasonable relative to your age, income, and family situation. Very high requests attract extra scrutiny.
Allow Adequate Time
Don’t rush. Apply when well-positioned. 3-5 weeks for underwriting is normal. Don’t apply during a crisis or poor control.
Working With an Agent
Consider working with a life insurance agent experienced in underwriting insulin-dependent diabetes applicants. Experienced agents understand which insurers are most receptive and can guide your presentation strategy. They may also help appeal denials or shop your application to other insurers if initial approval is declined.
Common Questions: Honest Answers
Is life insurance actually available for insulin-dependent diabetes?
Direct answer: Yes. Approval is achievable and happens regularly.
Insurance companies have underwritten insulin-dependent diabetes applicants for years. The question is not “can I get life insurance,” but rather “am I in good enough glucose control to qualify?” With HbA1c below 7% and no complications, approval is attainable at reasonable rates.
Will taking insulin automatically disqualify me?
Direct answer: No. Insulin use does not automatically disqualify you.
What matters is whether your insulin therapy is working—meaning your HbA1c is controlled and you’re not experiencing severe hypoglycemia or complications. Someone with well-controlled Type 1 diabetes on insulin can be approved. Someone with poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes on insulin might face denial. Control is what determines approval, not the insulin itself.
How much higher will my rates be compared to a standard applicant?
Direct answer: Plan on 25-75% higher than standard rates, depending on your HbA1c and complications.
Excellent control (HbA1c below 6.5%) might result in 25-35% higher rates. Good control (HbA1c 6.5-7%) might result in 35-50% higher. Acceptable control (HbA1c 7-8%) might result in 50-75% higher. These ranges reflect the medical complexity of insulin-dependent diabetes management.
What if my HbA1c is above 8%?
Direct answer: Don’t apply yet. Work on improving control first.
An HbA1c above 8% signals inadequate insulin control and makes approval very unlikely. Work with your diabetes care team on insulin adjustment, medication compliance, diet, or other factors. Most people can improve their HbA1c within 3-4 months with focused effort. Waiting to apply is worth significantly better approval odds and rates.
Will I need medical testing during underwriting?
Direct answer: Yes. Comprehensive medical testing is standard.
Expect blood work, including fasting glucose, HbA1c confirmation, kidney function tests (creatinine, eGFR), and standard life insurance medical exams. The insurer may use recent lab results from your doctor or order their own. Testing is necessary to verify your current glucose control and screen for complications.
Does it matter if I have Type 1 versus Type 2 diabetes?
Direct answer: Yes, it matters for the underwriting context, but control is still the primary factor.
Type 1 diabetes (always insulin-dependent) and Type 2 diabetes requiring insulin (progressive disease) are underwritten differently. Type 1 is viewed as an autoimmune condition; Type 2, requiring insulin, suggests disease progression. However, both are insurable with excellent control. History of diabetic ketoacidosis (Type 1) or severe hyperglycemia episodes (either type) significantly complicates underwriting.
What if I’ve had a severe hypoglycemic episode?
Direct answer: It complicates underwriting significantly. Recent episodes are more concerning than resolved past events.
A single past severe hypoglycemic episode that’s well-documented and resolved is less concerning than frequent recent episodes. Repeated severe hypoglycemia suggests inadequate insulin management or awareness. Hospitalization for hypoglycemia raises significant underwriting concerns. If you have a history of severe hypoglycemia, be prepared to explain current precautions and glucose monitoring practices.
What if I have complications like kidney disease or neuropathy?
Direct answer: Complications significantly complicate underwriting but don’t automatically mean denial.
Early or well-managed kidney disease may still be insurable at higher rates. Resolved or stable neuropathy may be acceptable. Active, progressive complications are much harder to underwrite. If you have complications, be prepared with full medical documentation and specialist assessments of your current status and prognosis.
Will my rates change after I get the policy?
Direct answer: No. Once approved and in force, your rates lock in permanently.
Even if your HbA1c improves significantly after approval, your rates stay the same for the life of your policy. Even if your health declines, your coverage stays in force. Lock in coverage now while you’re in good enough health to qualify. Your rates never change after approval.
What if I miss insulin doses or have poor medication compliance?
Direct answer: Non-compliance is a red flag. Get stable before applying.
Poor insulin compliance results in elevated HbA1c and signals unreliable disease management to underwriters. If you have inconsistent adherence, this will be evident in your HbA1c. Get your adherence and HbA1c controlled before applying. If compliance is genuinely difficult, be honest about barriers and current strategies to improve it.
Life Insurance With Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Is Achievable
Taking Humalog shows you’re actively managing complex diabetes. Life insurance ensures your family has financial protection. Excellent HbA1c control, honest disclosure, and realistic expectations lead to approval.
Call Now: 888-211-6171
Licensed agents experienced in insulin-dependent diabetes life insurance applications. Confidential evaluation and personalized quotes available.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal, medical, or insurance advice. Life insurance availability and pricing for applicants taking Humalog (Insulin Lispro) vary by individual circumstances, insurance company, state regulations, and current glucose control. Approval rates and pricing referenced are based on common underwriting practices for insulin-dependent diabetes. HbA1c targets and diabetes management guidelines are based on medical standards as of the publication date. Specific underwriting decisions depend on comprehensive evaluation of individual health status, diabetes management history, current glucose control, complications status, and insurance company guidelines. If you have questions about your insulin therapy or diabetes management, consult with your endocrinologist or diabetes care provider.
