Life Insurance for Diabetics
Coverage is available — even with a diabetes diagnosis
Having diabetes does not disqualify you from life insurance. While you may pay higher premiums than someone without the condition, many carriers actively insure people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Carriers evaluate how well your condition is managed — A1C levels, medication compliance, absence of complications, and overall health — to determine your rate class.
Why People with Diabetes Need Life Insurance
- Diabetes does not eliminate the need for family financial protection
- Medical expenses associated with diabetes make income replacement even more important
- Protect your family from both loss of income and increased healthcare costs
- Cover potential long-term care needs associated with diabetes complications
- Life insurance provides peace of mind during an already stressful health journey
- Rates will only increase as you age — buying now locks in the best available rate
Recommended Policy Types
Term Life Insurance
Available to well-managed diabetics at standard or slightly elevated rates. Type 2 diabetics with good A1C often qualify for competitive rates.
Guaranteed Issue Whole Life
If your diabetes is poorly controlled or you have complications, guaranteed-issue policies accept everyone regardless of health, though premiums are higher.
Simplified Issue Life Insurance
No medical exam required but a few health questions. Many diabetics qualify if their condition is well-managed.
How Much Coverage Do You Need?
Coverage needs are the same as for anyone else — 10-15 times annual income for income replacement, plus debts and final expenses. The key difference is in qualifying: maintain your A1C below 8.0 (ideally below 7.0), take medications as prescribed, and see your endocrinologist regularly to get the best rates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming you cannot get coverage at all and not even applying
- Applying to only one carrier — rates vary dramatically between companies for diabetics
- Not getting your diabetes well-controlled before applying
- Hiding your diagnosis on the application — this can void the policy
- Not working with an independent agent who knows which carriers are diabetes-friendly
Expert Tips
- Get your A1C below 7.0 before applying — this is the single biggest factor in your rate
- Work with an independent agent who specializes in impaired-risk underwriting
- Apply to multiple carriers — some are much more favorable to diabetics than others
- Have your medical records organized, including recent A1C results and medication list
- Consider guaranteed-issue or simplified-issue if traditional underwriting is denied
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get life insurance with Type 2 diabetes?
Yes. Many carriers offer competitive rates to Type 2 diabetics with good control (A1C below 7.0-8.0, no complications). Some carriers specialize in covering people with diabetes and may offer standard or near-standard rates.
Can I get life insurance with Type 1 diabetes?
Yes, though options are more limited and premiums are typically higher. Type 1 diabetics in good control with no major complications can find coverage through carriers that specialize in impaired-risk underwriting.
What A1C level do I need for life insurance?
Most carriers prefer an A1C below 8.0. Applicants with A1C below 7.0 may qualify for standard or preferred rates at some carriers. Above 10.0, options become limited to guaranteed-issue products.
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