Can I get Life Insurance if I have Diabetes?

Getting life insurance with Diabetes is easy if you work with the right insurance agent. I have helped hundreds of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetics find affordable term life insurance. If your condition is under control, you shouldn’t have any problems getting life insurance.  

Today, I am going to tell you the seven things all diabetics need to know before applying for life insurance. 

Tip 1: Know your A1C

Life Insurance companies love when your A1C is below 7. That is going to get you the best possible rates you can receive and is a sign that you are taking excellent care of yourself. 

Don’t get discouraged if your A1C is over 7. It’s still possible to get life insurance, but it’s going to cost more money. Most companies still consider an A1C between 7.1-8.5 to be good. 

If your A1C is over 8.5 your options will be limited, and you will likely pay significantly more money. I have helped people with an A1C over 10 get term life insurance in the past, but it does become difficult.   

Tip 2: Know when were you Diagnosed

Life Insurance companies look at how long you have had diabetes when determining your rates. You may be eligible for lower prices if you have had diabetes for a shorter period of time. Many companies offer discounts if you have been treated for diabetes for under 5 years. Other companies might offer savings if you were diagnosed after the age of 40 or 50.  If you are not sure when you were diagnosed, give your doctor a call and ask them. 

Tip 3: Know your complications

Experiencing complications from diabetes is common. If you have been treated for conditions like neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, or blood in your urine, you need to let the insurance company know. These conditions can impact your rates, and some companies may not offer you life insurance. If you let you are agent know before you apply for life insurance, they can better determine the best life insurance company for your situation. 

Tip 4: What Medications are you taking

Yes, the medications you are taking matters. If you are a Type 2 Diabetic, you may be taking oral medications like Metformin, taking insulin, or a combination of both oral meds and insulin. Other Type 2 Diabetics may be able to control there condition by diet and exercise. This information matters because some companies will offer better rates based on your current treatment plan. If you are a Type 1 Diabetic companies want to know how many units of insulin you are using each day. 

Tip 5: Your height and weight matter

When you are looking for life insurance your height, and weight help determine if you are eligible for lower rates or a surcharge. If you are slightly overweight, you likely will still qualify for the best possible rates and have nothing to worry about. Prudential and Banner Life Insurance have great rates for diabetics who are overweight. Be honest with your agent about your weight and they will help you find the best possible option.

Tip 6: Tobacco use 

If you have used cigarettes in the past year, you will pay more money for life insurance. If you have used other tobacco products in the past year, some companies may waive a surcharge for tobacco use. Working with an experienced agent can help you save thousands of dollars. Only a few companies offer competitive rates for tobacco use, and I would be happy to help you find the best option. 

Tip 7: Work with a Diabetic Life Insurance Expert 

If you are serious about getting life insurance with diabetes, you should work with someone who has experience and understands your condition. Many people with diabetes are declined for life insurance because they worked with an agent who doesn’t understand how life insurance companies look at diabetics.  

If your agent is not asking you questions about your A1C and diabetic history, then you likely will overpay for life insurance. If you are ready to get your life insurance quote, give us a call at 520-888-6900.