Life insurance with a health condition

A health problem does not mean no. Here is what insurers look at for 20 common conditions, and which kinds of coverage tend to fit.

Type 2 diabetesMany people with type 2 diabetes get regular term life insurance.Type 1 diabetesMost people with type 1 diabetes get a higher than average rate, and some companies will not sell them whole life.High blood pressureHigh blood pressure is one of the most common things insurers see.High cholesterolMost people with high cholesterol can get life insurance.Heart diseaseMost insurers want you at least 6 months past a heart attack, and you should expect higher than average rates.Cancer survivorsMost insurers want you to be done with treatment for a while first.COPDSometimes.Sleep apneaMild or moderate sleep apnea usually gets average or better rates.Depression and anxietyPolicygenius rates depression and anxiety as low impact on life insurance prices.High BMIIt is rare for insurers to turn someone down for weight alone.AsthmaMild or exercise asthma can get the best rates at some companies.Kidney diseasePeople at stage 3 or lower should be able to get coverage.HIVSeveral big insurers will not sell regular coverage to people with HIV, but Pacific Life, Prudential and Lincoln Financial may.StrokeHow long ago it was, what kind it was, and how well you recovered matter most.DementiaIf you already have a dementia diagnosis, most regular policies will say no.Hepatitis CIf you've been treated and the virus is gone, many insurers will offer term life.EpilepsyIf your seizures are under control, you can often get term life.Multiple sclerosisYour MS type, how long you've had it and how well you get around matter most.Parkinson'sIt can be hard, but it is not always a no.SmokersYou'll get tobacco rates, but quitting for about a year can open up nonsmoker rates at many companies.

This is general information, not medical advice. Every insurer has its own rules. Be honest on your application so your family gets paid.

Three paths

Ways to get covered with a health condition

Fully underwritten

Health questions, records and often an exam. The lowest prices and the biggest amounts if your condition is under control.

Simplified issue

Health questions, no exam. Smaller amounts, faster answers. More on simplified issue

Guaranteed issue

No health questions. Small amounts and a waiting period, but you cannot be turned down for your health. More on guaranteed issue

Not sure?

Tell us your situation. An agent knows which companies are friendlier to your condition.

Questions about health and life insurance

Can I get life insurance with a health condition?

Often yes. Many people with diabetes, high blood pressure or a past heart attack still qualify. Some get regular prices.

Will the insurance company check my health?

Usually. Companies may check your prescription history, your MIB file and your answers. Some plans also ask for an exam.

What if I get turned down?

You may still qualify with another company, or with a guaranteed issue plan that asks no health questions.

Should I tell the truth about my health?

Yes, always. If you leave something out, the company can deny the claim in the first two years.

See your price in 2 minutes

Two minutes, a few questions, and a licensed agent shows you what it really costs. No exam needed for many plans.

About 3 in 4 people guess life insurance costs more than it does. LIMRA 2026