Smokers often pay about three times as much as nonsmokers, or more. Most insurers treat you as a smoker if you used cigarettes in the last 12 months, and many count vaping too.
In NerdWallet data from February 2026, a 40 year old man paid about $411 a year as a nonsmoker for a 20 year, $500,000 term policy. As a smoker, he paid about $1,482.
Many insurers count vaping, nicotine gum, patches, cigars, pipes, hookah and chewing tobacco. Rules vary by company.
Insurers test blood and urine for nicotine. Vaping or nicotine products can still show up on the test.
If you quit, many insurers give nonsmoker rates after one year. The best rate classes may take three to five years.
Do not hide it. Lying on the application is fraud, and a claim can be denied in the first two years.
- Cigarettes in the last 12 months
- Vaping and nicotine products at many insurers
- Chewing tobacco
- Cigars, pipes and hookah
- Marijuana rules vary by insurer
More questions
Can I get nonsmoker rates if I smoke a cigar once in a while?
Some insurers allow it if your nicotine test is clean. Others do not.
What if I quit after I buy?
Ask your insurer. Some may review your rate after you have been tobacco free for a while.
Does marijuana count as smoking?
It depends on the insurer. Some give occasional users the best rates.
