Can Smokers Get Life Insurance?

​People who smoke typically don’t have adequate life insurance policies because they believe they are not able to qualify. The good news is that smokers may obtain life insurance, albeit at a higher cost. So, for those who smoke or care about someone who does, here's what you need to know about who qualifies for smoker life insurance and why it's necessary.

Life Insurance for Smokers 
Before issuing a life insurance policy, insurers will consider several factors.

1. Age
Generally, younger people who are healthier pose less risk and may qualify for lower rates than older people.

2. Gender
Because women live longer lives than men, female candidates may qualify for better rates if all other criteria are met.

3. Health status
Life insurance companies will inquire about risky behavior, cancer diagnoses, and family history. Rates may rise if there is a higher risk of illness or a history of illness.

4. Tobacco status
Applicants are considered smokers if they have smoked in the previous 12 months. However, it's important to remember that different life insurance companies may have different definitions of what constitutes smoking. Smoking typically refers to the act of smoking cigarettes, but it may also refer to:

• Cigars
• E-cigarettes and vaping
• Chewing tobacco, snuff, dissolvable tobacco, etc.
• Pipes
• Marijuana

How are smokers rated for Life Insurance?
Insurance providers classify smokers and non-smokers into risk categories. Companies may call their classifications by different names, but some commonly used categories are:

1. Preferred Non-smoker
   Those accepted into this category are in good health, with normal blood pressure, weight, and cholesterol levels. Also, there must be no history of premature death of siblings or parents from cancer or heart disease to be accepted into the preferred or super-preferred category. In addition, applicants should have a clean background with few traffic offenses and accidents.
   
   
2. The Average Non-smoker
   The average person falls into this category. These applicants may be overweight or taking medication for high blood pressure. They may also have a family member who died due to cancer or heart disease.
   
   
3. Preferred Smoker
   Smokers who would otherwise be placed in the preferred category fall into this category. If someone is trying to quit smoking, it will take about five years to qualify for the best non-smoking rates.
   
   
4. Standard Smoker
   Smokers who are unsure of their classification might fall under this category. However, not everyone is neatly classified into preferred or standard rates. This could be due to a medical condition such as diabetes or cancer. On the other hand, if a person is unsure how they will be rated, they should confirm with an insurance provider.

Final Thoughts
As mentioned, smokers are still able to obtain life insurance. However, they should expect lower death benefits and insurance premiums. So, if a person buys a life insurance policy as a smoker and then quits, it's critical to contact the life insurance company again to discuss any policy options and rate changes.

At UG Insurance Brokerage Inc, we aim to provide comprehensive insurance policies that make your life easier. We want to help you get the insurance that fits your needs. You can get more information about our products and services by calling our agency at (718) 848-7777. Get your free quote today by CLICKING HERE. Coverage discussed in this article is not guaranteed. Please contact our agents today to ensure that your needs are being met and learn more about your policy. We are happy to help!