---
title: Can I bring back a lapsed life insurance policy
url: https://coverfolk.com/answers/reinstate-lapsed-policy
updated: 2026-10-08
---

# Can I bring back a lapsed life insurance policy?

Updated October 8, 20263 sourcesCoverfolk team[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

Often yes. Texas says most companies will bring back a lapsed policy within five years if you pay what you owe with interest. You may need to answer health questions.

A policy lapses when you do not pay by the end of the grace period. Then there is no coverage.

You can usually ask to reinstate it. Texas says you pay the overdue premiums with interest. You might have to answer health questions or take a medical exam.

A new two year clock starts. Texas says a reinstated policy gets a new contestable period. In that time the company can check your answers again.

Compare it to a new policy. Michigan says new policies cost more as you get older, and worse health can mean higher prices or a no.

Do not drop an old policy until a new one is in effect. Washington says this in its top cautions.

## More questions

### Is it better to bring it back or buy new?

Ask for both prices. Michigan says a new policy is priced on your age now and starts a new two year contestable period.

### Will I need a medical exam?

Maybe. Texas says you might need to answer health questions or take an exam.

## Words to know

[Grace period](/glossary)
:   Extra time after your premium is due to pay without losing coverage. Most policies give 31 days.

[Lapse](/glossary)
:   When your policy ends because you did not pay the premium in time. Your beneficiaries will not get the death benefit.

[Premium](/glossary)
:   The amount you pay an insurance company for your policy.

## Sources

1. [Texas Department of Insurance: Life insurance guide](https://www.tdi.texas.gov/pubs/consumer/cb018.html)
2. [Michigan DIFS: Understanding Life Insurance (PDF)](https://www.michigan.gov/difs/-/media/Project/Websites/difs/Publication/Life/FIS-PUB_0212.pdf)
3. [Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner: A consumer's guide to life insurance (PDF)](https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2025-03/life-insurance-guide.pdf)