Life Insurance for Diabetics: Complete Guide to Getting Covered

Can Diabetics Get Life Insurance?

Yes — and diabetes is one of the most commonly underwritten health conditions. With over 37 million Americans living with diabetes, insurance carriers have deep experience evaluating diabetic applicants. The vast majority can find coverage.

The key factors that determine your options:

• Type of diabetes: Type 2 is rated more favorably than Type 1
• A1C level: The single most important number
• Complications: Neuropathy, retinopathy, kidney disease
• Duration: How long you have had diabetes
• Management: Diet/exercise, oral medications, or insulin
• Overall health: Weight, blood pressure, cholesterol

Well-controlled diabetes with no complications is a manageable risk factor. Poorly controlled diabetes with complications is where coverage becomes expensive or limited.

Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes Rates

$500,000 20-year term, age 40:

Diabetes Status	Monthly Premium	vs. Non-Diabetic
No diabetes	$35-45	Baseline
Type 2, A1C < 7.0	$48-65	+30-50%
Type 2, A1C 7.0-8.0	$65-90	+60-100%
Type 2, A1C > 8.0	$90-135	+100-200%
Type 1, well-controlled	$75-110	+75-150%
Type 1, A1C > 8.0	$110-165	+150-265%
Either type with complications	$135-200+	+200%+

Rates are estimates. Actual premiums vary by carrier and individual health profile.

For a deeper look at Type 2 specifically, see our guide to Type 2 diabetes life insurance.

What Underwriters Look For

A1C Level (Most Important):

• Under 7.0: Excellent control — best rates available
• 7.0-7.5: Good control — Standard or mild table rating
• 7.5-8.5: Fair control — Table 2-4
• 8.5-10.0: Poor control — Table 6+ or decline
• Over 10.0: Very poor control — most carriers decline

Complications:

• Diabetic neuropathy: Adds to table rating
• Retinopathy: Significant negative factor
• Nephropathy (kidney disease): Major concern, may cause decline
• Cardiovascular disease: Combined with diabetes, very challenging

Treatment Method:

• Diet and exercise only: Most favorable
• Oral medications (metformin): Standard underwriting
• Insulin (Type 2): Slightly higher risk perception
• Insulin pump (Type 1): Evaluated case-by-case

Duration:

• Diagnosed within 5 years: Generally favorable if well-controlled
• 10+ years without complications: Demonstrates good management
• 20+ years: Carriers check carefully for developing complications

Best Companies for Diabetics

Most Diabetes-Friendly:

• Prudential — competitive for well-controlled Type 2
• John Hancock — strong underwriting for both types
• Banner Life — favorable for A1C under 7.5
• Lincoln Financial — good rates for Type 2 on oral medications

Moderate:

• Protective Life — case-by-case, reasonable for stable diabetes
• Transamerica — will consider most controlled diabetics

Guaranteed Issue (No A1C Check):

• Mutual of Omaha — up to $25K, no health questions
• AIG — guaranteed acceptance regardless of diabetes status

Tips for Getting the Best Rate

1. Get your A1C as low as possible. This is the single biggest lever you have. Dropping your A1C from 8.0 to 7.0 can move you from a Table 4 to Standard — saving hundreds per year.

2. Apply after a good lab result. Time your application so that your most recent A1C reading reflects your best control. Do not apply right after a period of poor diet or missed medications.

3. Address related conditions. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and being overweight are common in diabetics. Getting these under control improves your overall underwriting profile.

4. Keep detailed records. A log of your A1C history, medication compliance, and regular doctor visits demonstrates responsible management.

5. Get a letter from your endocrinologist. A letter confirming well-controlled diabetes with no complications can tip the underwriting in your favor.

6. Use an independent broker. Diabetes underwriting varies enormously between carriers. A broker who specializes in high-risk life insurance can match your diabetes profile with the most favorable carrier.

Ready to compare rates? Get a free life insurance quote and find the best rates for diabetic applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get life insurance if I have diabetes?

Yes. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics can get life insurance. Well-controlled Type 2 diabetes (A1C under 7.5) is insurable at many carriers at Standard or near-Standard rates. Type 1 is more challenging but coverage is available.

How much does diabetes increase life insurance premiums?

Well-controlled Type 2 diabetes may add 25-75% to standard rates. Poorly controlled diabetes (A1C over 9) or diabetes with complications can double or triple premiums. Type 1 typically adds 50-150% depending on control and duration.

Does my A1C level affect my life insurance rate?

Yes, A1C is the single most important factor in diabetes underwriting. An A1C under 7.0 opens the door to the best rates. Between 7.0-8.0 is rated but insurable. Above 9.0, options narrow significantly.