Yes, but it usually costs more than type 2. Most people with type 1 diabetes get a higher than average rate, and some companies will not sell them whole life.
The CDC says about 2.1 million people in the US have diagnosed type 1 diabetes. Many were diagnosed as kids. Insurers treat type 1 differently than type 2 because people live with it for more years.
People with type 1 usually get a below average rate class. That means a higher price. You may still get covered if your A1C is under 8 and you take less than 50 units of insulin a day. Being diagnosed young counts against you because you have had it longer. Problems with eyes, kidneys or feet make it harder.
Policygenius also says some companies will not offer whole life to people with type 1. Term life may be easier to get. NerdWallet says John Hancock has a policy made for people with type 1 or type 2. Ask for quotes from more than one company.
What insurers look at
- Your A1C (Policygenius says under 8 helps)
- How much insulin you take each day (Policygenius mentions under 50 units)
- Your age when you were diagnosed (younger at diagnosis means more years with it)
- Problems with your eyes, kidneys or feet, or dialysis
- Your height and weight
- Whether you smoke
Coverage that may fit
Still possible for many people. Type 1 is usually rated below average, so you will likely pay more. Your A1C and any problems from diabetes matter most.
No exam, but you answer health questions. Coverage often reaches about $50,000, and you can still be turned down for serious conditions. Useful if your health is steady but you want to skip the exam.
For people who cannot pass health questions. There is no exam and no health questions, coverage tops out around $25,000, and the price is high. Mutual of Omaha sells it to people 45 and older, per Policygenius. Most have a waiting period, often 2 years, before the full amount pays for a natural death (Policygenius, graded death benefit). A fallback if you have serious problems like kidney damage.
Common questions
Is type 1 harder to insure than type 2?
Usually, yes. Type 1 is often rated below average, while type 2 can get average rates.
Can I get whole life with type 1?
Some companies will not offer it, per Policygenius. Others might. Term life is often easier.
Does my insulin pump matter?
We could not verify how insurers treat pumps. Insurers do ask about your insulin use and how well your blood sugar is controlled.
Sources
General information, not medical advice. Insurer rules change. An agent can tell you which companies treat your condition best.
