Life Insurance With Health Conditions: Yes, You Can Still Qualify
February 18, 2025
Nearly half of all nonelderly Americans have a pre-existing condition. These conditions range from diabetes and asthma to heart disease and cancer, and they often create challenges when applying for life insurance. Most people assume they won’t qualify due to their health history, leading them to avoid applying altogether. However, the reality is much more hopeful.
With the right provider, such as 1891 Financial Life, you can find policies tailored to your unique needs. The key lies in being honest about your medical history, exploring flexible options, and working with experts who understand how to address these challenges.
Can You Get Life Insurance With a Health Condition? Yes!
Many people believe that having a health condition automatically disqualifies them from obtaining life insurance, but this is far from true. Insurers usually evaluate applicants based on risk factors, but they also consider how well you manage your condition.
For example, people with high blood pressure, diabetes (both Type 1 and Type 2), heart disease, asthma, cancer (depending on stage and remission), obesity, or autoimmune diseases are often eligible for coverage. Different types of policies provide flexibility for those with health concerns. For instance:
- Traditional underwritten policies: Ideal for those whose conditions are stable and well-managed
- Guaranteed issue life insurance: A good option for those who may not qualify under traditional underwriting
- Simplified issue life insurance: This policy skips the life insurance medical exam and requires only a health questionnaire
Insurers assess your overall risk profile rather than focusing solely on one condition. For instance, if you actively manage your health through regular treatments or lifestyle changes, you might qualify for better terms.
Honesty Matters: Why Full Disclosure Helps You Get the Best Coverage
When applying for life insurance, honesty about your medical history is crucial. Providing accurate information helps insurers match you with the right policy, which will help you avoid complications later on.
Withholding information about your health can lead to serious consequences. If you fail to disclose critical health details, insurers may cancel your policy due to misrepresentation. Additionally, discrepancies in your application could delay or even deny payouts during a claim process, leaving your loved ones without financial protection when they need it most.
At 1891 Financial Life, we value transparency throughout the process. Our team works closely with applicants to find policies suited to their needs. Being upfront allows us to offer accurate rates to ensure peace of mind for you and your family.
How To Improve Your Chances of Qualifying for Life Insurance
Qualifying for life insurance with a health condition may seem challenging at first glance, but certain steps can increase your chances.
- Choose an experienced provider. Providers like 1891 Financial Life focus on creating solutions that meet a variety of needs, making it easier to find the right policy for your situation.
- If possible, take a medical exam. When you manage your condition effectively, an exam can highlight your stability and help you secure better rates.
- Demonstrate consistent health management. Keeping regular doctor visits, following prescribed treatments, and adopting healthier habits show insurers that you present a lower risk.
- Look into flexible underwriting options. Simplified issue or guaranteed issue policies offer alternatives when traditional underwriting feels too restrictive or challenging.
Don’t Let Health Concerns Keep You From Life Insurance
Health conditions should not stop you from securing life insurance that safeguards your family’s future. Many providers, including 1891 Financial Life, offer policies designed for people with diverse health backgrounds.
The key to finding the right coverage lies in exploring your options and being transparent about your medical history. With the guidance of experienced professionals, you can discover plans that fit your unique needs. Don’t let assumptions hold you back. Contact 1891 Financial Life today and take the first step toward securing a policy that provides lasting peace of mind.
About 1891 Financial Life
Our culture is about looking out — for you, for others, for family, for the community. That is how we go “Beyond Life Insurance.”
At 1891 Financial Life, we don’t just sell policies, we offer possibilities. We pride ourselves on giving back to the communities that we serve by providing quality and comprehensive insurance solutions. We are a not-for-profit life insurance Society, which means the sales from these financial service products help fund member benefits along with social, educational, and volunteer programs designed to respond to community needs. In 2023, 1891 Financial Life was listed by Forbes as one of "The World's Best Life Insurance Companies."
Our portfolio is extensive, ranging from various life insurance policies to our annuities to support your financial needs no matter what stage of life you’re in.