Is life insurance more expensive for smokers?

Yes, significantly. Smokers typically pay two to three times more for life insurance than non-smokers of the same age and health. This is because tobacco use is associated with dramatically higher rates of cancer, heart disease, and stroke — all major causes of premature death. Most insurers define a smoker as anyone who has used tobacco products in the past 12 months. If you quit smoking for 12 months or more, you can apply to be reclassified as a non-smoker, which can substantially lower your premium.