Often yes. Insurers look at your health, so you may get a regular policy, a group plan, or a policy with no health questions.
SSDI is for people with a disability and enough work history. Social Security says your payment is based on your work before the disability.
Life insurers decide based on health. Texas says they often use a medical exam and health questions, and can say no if they see high risk.
Group life can be easier. Texas says plans through a job, union, or church usually do not ask health questions.
Guaranteed issue life insurance asks no health questions. Policygenius says it usually pays up to $25,000. If you die of natural causes in the first two years, it may only pay back your premiums plus 10 percent.
SSI is a different program with limits on what you own. Social Security says life insurance does not count against SSI only if the total face value is $1,500 or less. Check before you buy a policy with cash value.
- Group life through a job, union, or club
- Guaranteed issue life with no health questions
- Simplified issue life with a few health questions
- A regular policy if your health allows
More questions
Is SSDI the same as SSI?
No. SSDI is based on your work history. SSI has limits on what you own, $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a couple.
Can a whole life policy hurt my SSI?
It can. Social Security only leaves policies out when their combined face value is $1,500 or less. Ask Social Security before you buy.
Words to know
- Cash value
- The savings part of a permanent policy. It grows over time and can be used for loans, cash, or to pay premiums.
- Group life
- Life insurance offered by an employer or group to its members. You usually don't have to answer health questions, and coverage often ends when you leave.
- Guaranteed issue
- A policy for people with health issues who may not qualify for other coverage. Very few people are turned down.
- Premium
- The amount you pay an insurance company for your policy.
