Life Insurance for Diabetics: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Approved and Protected

Think having diabetes disqualifies you from life insurance? Think again.

Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or you’ve managed diabetes for decades, the truth is this: You can still get life insurance with diabetes — and often at a better rate than you expect.

But here’s the problem. Most people with diabetes don’t know where to start. They’re met with confusing applications, vague answers, or overpriced policies that make them feel like they’re being penalized just for having a health condition.

That ends here.

In this ultimate guide to life insurance for diabetics, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — the underwriting secrets, the best companies, the smartest policy types, and what to expect during your application process. You’ll learn how to increase your chances of approval, avoid overpaying, and find a policy that fits your life, your health, and your future.

Because diabetes may change how you approach life insurance…but it doesn’t mean you have to settle.

Can You Get Life Insurance with Diabetes?

If you have diabetes, you’ve probably asked yourself this question — maybe even assumed the answer was no.

Here’s the truth: Yes, people with diabetes can absolutely get life insurance. And not just overpriced or bare-bones coverage, we’re talking real, meaningful protection that can support your family and financial goals.

But here’s the catch: While life insurance for diabetics is available, not all policies (or companies) are created equal. Diabetes, especially if poorly managed, can raise red flags for underwriters, which can lead to higher premiums or even denials if you apply the wrong way.

Why Diabetes Matters to Insurers

Life insurance companies assess risk, and diabetes, depending on its type and how well it’s managed, can increase the likelihood of complications like heart disease, stroke, kidney issues, or nerve damage. That risk gets priced into your policy.

But here’s the good news:

Insurers now recognize that millions of Americans are managing diabetes effectively, living long, healthy lives. That means more flexible underwriting and a growing number of policies tailored for people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

The Key Is Strategy, Not Guesswork

If you apply directly with a generic carrier or use a site that just funnels you into a quote engine, you risk being declined or overcharged. On the other hand, if you work with a professional who understands which carriers specialize in life insurance for people with diabetes, you’ll unlock better rates, better options, and faster approvals.

How Diabetes Affects Your Life Insurance Rates

Now that you know that you can get life insurance with diabetes, we can dive into how diabetes specifically affects your life insurance rates. Understanding these factors can help you apply more strategically and potentially save money.

Life insurance companies base your rates on risk, and diabetes introduces some variables they have to consider. The better you control those variables, the more favorable your offer — and the more affordable your policy.

Let’s break it down.

Type Matters: Life Insurance for Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes

Insurance companies look at Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes differently:

• Life Insurance for Diabetics Type 1: Typically diagnosed earlier in life and insulin-dependent, Type 1 diabetes is often seen as higher risk. But if your condition is stable, you monitor it closely, and have no major complications, coverage is still absolutely possible — even from top-rated companies.
• Life Insurance for Diabetics Type 2: Since Type 2 often develops later in life and can be managed with lifestyle changes or oral medication, carriers are more lenient — especially if your A1C is under control and you’re not using insulin. This is where we often find the best life insurance for diabetics in terms of pricing and approval speed.

7 Key Factors That Affect Your Rates

Here’s what underwriters are really looking at when reviewing an application for someone with diabetes:

1. Type of Diabetes – Type 1, Type 2, or Gestational
2. Age at Diagnosis – An earlier diagnosis may result in closer scrutiny
3. A1C Levels – Ideally under 7.0; the lower, the better
4. Medications Used – Oral-only is typically seen as lower risk than insulin use
5. Complications – Neuropathy, kidney issues, retinopathy, and cardiovascular problems raise red flags
6. Height & Weight (BMI) – Obesity combined with diabetes often leads to higher premiums
7. Tobacco Use – A big strike. Diabetics who smoke can expect much higher rates, if not outright declines

Understanding Rate Classes (and Why They Matter)

Life insurance carriers place applicants into health classes like:

• Preferred Plus / Preferred: Typically out of reach for most diabetics, unless it’s gestational or extremely well-controlled.
• Standard or Standard Plus: A realistic goal for many with well-managed Type 2 diabetes.
• Table Ratings (A–H or 1–8): Additional risk-based pricing tiers. Most diabetics fall into a mild to moderate table rating, which adds a percentage cost to your base premium.

The good news? Even with a table rating, you can still secure quality, affordable coverage — especially if you apply through the right company.

Your health isn’t perfect — but perfection isn’t required. What matters most is demonstrating that your diabetes is stable, well-managed, and under control. That opens the door to policies that protect your family without draining your wallet.

Best Life Insurance for Diabetics: What Are Your Options?

Not all life insurance policies are created equal — especially when you’re managing diabetes. The key is choosing the right type of coverage that fits your health profile, financial goals, and budget.

Let’s break down the best life insurance options for diabetics and when each makes sense.

Term Life Insurance

Best for: Affordability, income protection, younger applicants with well-managed diabetes

• Term life provides coverage for a set number of years (10, 20, 30).
• It’s the most budget-friendly option — especially for applicants with Type 2 diabetes who are younger and managing their condition well.
• Some carriers will even offer term policies to well-controlled Type 1 diabetics, though often with a table rating.

Considerations:

• Renewal Costs: Premiums may increase significantly upon renewal, especially as age and health risk factors change.

Pro tip: If your A1C is under 7.0, you might qualify for a Standard or Standard Plus rate — even with diabetes.

Learn more about Term Life Insurance.

Whole Life Insurance

Best for: Lifelong coverage, building guaranteed cash value

• Whole life lasts for your entire life, with fixed premiums and guaranteed benefits.
• It builds cash value over time that you can borrow against.
• Great for estate planning, funeral costs, or leaving a tax-free legacy.

This type of policy is ideal if you’re looking for permanent protection and have some flexibility in your budget.

Considerations:

• Higher Premiums: More expensive than term insurance, reflecting the additional benefits.
• Complexity: Understanding policy details and cash value growth can require more scrutiny.

Learn more about Whole Life Insurance.

Guaranteed Universal Life (GUL)

Best for: Lifelong coverage without the high cost of whole life

• Think of GUL as a permanent policy without much cash value — it’s all about low premiums and guaranteed death benefits.
• It’s one of the most diabetic-friendly permanent life insurance options, especially if you’re age 50+ and want predictable costs.

Learn more about Guaranteed Universal Life Insurance.

Final Expense Insurance (Burial Insurance)

Best for: Seniors, fixed-income individuals, or those with multiple health issues

• Smaller face amounts ($10K–$50K) are meant to cover burial, funeral, and final expenses.
• Typically requires no medical exam and only a few health questions.
• Extremely diabetic-friendly — even if you’ve had some complications.

Learn more about Final Expense Insurance.

Simplified Issue Life Insurance

Best for: Moderate health issues, quick decisions, and no exams

• No medical exam, but more detailed health questions than final expense.
• Offers higher death benefits (up to $500K+).
• Best for those managing diabetes without major complications or hospitalizations.

Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance

Best for: Serious complications, insulin-dependency with issues, or past declines

• No health questions. No medical records. No exam.
• Guaranteed approval — but with lower face amounts and a 2-year waiting period.
• Higher premiums, but it’s a last-resort option when nothing else fits.

Learn more about Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance.

Can You Get No-Exam Life Insurance with Diabetes?

Short answer? Yes — and in many cases, it’s the smartest move.

If the idea of scheduling a medical exam, giving blood, or waiting weeks for approval sounds exhausting, you’re not alone. Thankfully, several life insurance companies now offer no-exam policies specifically designed to accommodate applicants with manageable health conditions — including diabetes.

However, not all no-exam policies are created equal. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is No-Exam Life Insurance?

No-exam life insurance — also known as simplified issue or accelerated underwriting — allows you to apply for coverage without needles, labs, or doctor visits. Instead, carriers evaluate your eligibility based on:

• An online or phone questionnaire
• A review of your prescription history and medical records
• Public data sources (MIB, motor vehicle reports, etc.)

Is No-Exam Life Insurance Available for Diabetics?

Yes — and it’s more available than ever.

If you’re a Type 2 diabetic with a stable A1C and no major complications, you can likely qualify for up to $500,000 or more in term life coverage — no exam required.

Some Type 1 diabetics may also qualify, especially if they’re managing their condition well and have no history of hospitalization or insulin-related complications.

When No-Exam Life Insurance Makes Sense

You should consider a no-exam policy if you:

• Want fast approval (some policies get issued within 24–72 hours)
• Are managing Type 2 diabetes with oral medications
• Have an A1C under 7.5
• Are under age 60
• Prefer privacy and convenience

When You Might Need a Fully Underwritten Policy Instead

If you:

• Use insulin and have complications
• Have a recent hospitalization
• Are applying for $1 million+ in coverage
• Have multiple health conditions (e.g., high blood pressure, obesity, heart issues)

…then a fully underwritten policy may still offer better pricing or more flexibility. But don’t worry — we can help you explore both options.

Best No-Exam Life Insurance Companies for Diabetics

The companies below offer competitive no-exam policies that are diabetic-friendly, as long as your condition is well-controlled, you have a clean doctor visit history, and no serious complications.

Foresters Financial

• Offers up to $400,000 in term coverage with no medical exam
• Accepts Type 2 diabetics with good A1C and no major complications
• Includes living benefits for terminal, chronic, and critical illness
• Fast approvals — usually within 3–5 days

Mutual of Omaha – Term Life Express

• Up to $300,000 in simplified issue term coverage
• Ideal for Type 2 diabetics diagnosed after age 40 using oral meds only
• Available ages: 18 to 70
• Includes built-in living benefits and optional riders
• Very competitive pricing for simplified issue policies

Banner Life (via Lab Lift Program)

• Offers up to $2 million in coverage — potentially no exam if recent labs are available
• Diabetic applicants with excellent control and no complications may qualify
• Uses health records and labs from your doctor (no new exam required)
• Known for lenient underwriting and strong approval rates

⚠️ Important Disclaimer:

While no-exam life insurance offers speed and convenience, it typically comes with:

• Higher premiums than fully underwritten policies
• Lower maximum coverage amounts (usually capped at $300K–$500K for diabetics)
• Stricter eligibility — best suited for Type 2 diabetics with excellent control and no complications

If you need more coverage or have a complex health history, a fully underwritten policy might offer better pricing and flexibility in the long run.

Best Life Insurance Companies for Diabetics (With Exam)

Here’s the truth most people never hear: some life insurance companies are simply better at underwriting diabetes than others. If you apply with the wrong carrier, you could end up paying hundreds — even thousands — more than necessary.

That’s why choosing the right insurer is just as important as choosing the right policy type.

Below are some of the best life insurance companies for diabetics based on real-world underwriting outcomes, leniency, and approval speed.

Mutual of Omaha

Why it stands out:

• Very diabetic-friendly, especially for Type 2 applicants over age 50
• Offers both term and final expense policies with simplified underwriting
• Competitive rates and strong financial ratings

Best for:

• Older adults with well-controlled Type 2 diabetes
• Those seeking burial insurance or final expense coverage with no exam

John Hancock with the Vitality Program

Why it stands out:

• Rewards applicants for healthy behavior with discounts and gift cards
• Can offer better rates if you participate in the Vitality wellness program
• Accepts insulin users with a well-documented history and doctor follow-ups

Best for:

• Type 1 or insulin-dependent diabetics who actively manage their health
• High-income earners looking for larger death benefits and rewards

Prudential

Why it stands out:

• One of the most lenient major carriers for diabetics — including Type 1
• More flexible underwriting for those with earlier diagnosis or insulin use
• Strong for both term and permanent coverage

Best for:

• Applicants with longstanding diabetes but no complications
• Those who may have been declined by other carriers

Assurity

Why it stands out:

• Offers no-exam life insurance for diabetics with fast approval
• Friendly toward Type 2 diabetics using oral meds
• Great for simplified issue up to $500K in coverage

Best for:

• Busy professionals who want life insurance with no medical exam
• Clients looking for a smooth, fast process with decent rates

Corebridge (formerly AIG)

Why it stands out:

• Good option for Guaranteed Issue policies
• No health questions or exams — approval is automatic
• Higher face amounts than some competitors in the guaranteed space

Best for:

• People with serious complications or who have been previously declined
• Older adults who need final expense coverage with certainty

Honorable Mentions

• SBLI: Great no-exam term policies for well-controlled Type 2
• Ethos: Tech-forward platform with diabetic-friendly underwriting up to age 60
• Americo: Lenient on diabetes for final expense products

Chris’s Take:

 No-exam coverage can be a powerful tool — if you qualify. The key is applying through a diabetic-friendly carrier that won’t waste your time. I help clients sort through these options every day to find the best fit based on their real health, not just what a quote engine spits out.

Not sure which option fits your situation? Let’s simplify it.
I’ll compare top-rated carriers and show you exactly which policies you’re likely to qualify for — no guesswork, no pressure.

👉Fill out the form on your right to request your free diabetic life insurance quote
(Takes 60 seconds. No medical exam required to get started.)

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved

Getting life insurance with diabetes isn’t just about if you can get covered — it’s about how well you prepare before you apply.

The difference between a decline and an affordable offer often comes down to strategy. Here’s how to stack the odds in your favor.

1. Get Your A1C Under Control

Your A1C level is one of the first things underwriters look at. It tells them how well your diabetes is being managed over time.

• Target Range: Most companies prefer an A1C below 7.0
• A1C over 8.5? You’ll likely face higher premiums or limited options

Tip: If your A1C is creeping up, consider delaying your application by 60–90 days while improving your levels with diet, exercise, or medication adjustments.

2. Know Your Medications — and Use Them Consistently

Underwriters want to see that you’re following your treatment plan. Skipping meds, going off insulin without doctor approval, or inconsistent control can raise red flags.

• Oral meds only? That’s generally seen as lower risk than insulin
• Using insulin with good A1C? Still insurable — with the right carrier

3. Request a Copy of Your Medical Records

Many insurers will ask for your Attending Physician Statement (APS) — but having recent labs and records ready can speed up approval and reduce back-and-forth.

• Bring recent A1C results and medication history to your advisor
• Document any improvements or lifestyle changes (e.g., weight loss, exercise routines)

4. Avoid Tobacco — Seriously

Smoking or vaping while managing diabetes can be a dealbreaker.
Even if everything else looks good, tobacco use can push your rates through the roof or lead to a flat-out decline.

5. Apply Through an Independent Advisor (Not Just a Quote Engine)

This part is critical.

Online quote engines give you one-size-fits-all pricing, but they can’t match you with the right underwriting guidelines for your unique health profile. That’s how people with diabetes end up overpaying or getting declined unnecessarily.

As an independent financial advisor, I work with dozens of diabetic-friendly companies, and I’ll shop your case confidentially to find you the best fit, before any formal application is submitted.

6. Consider No-Exam Life Insurance (If You’re Eligible)

No-exam policies are often more lenient, especially if you’re:

• Under age 60
• Taking oral meds (not insulin)
• Have no major complications

They offer speed and simplicity, but choosing the right carrier still matters.

7. Be Honest on Your Application

It’s tempting to downplay health details to get a better rate, but that can backfire fast. If the insurance company uncovers discrepancies during underwriting, you could lose your offer — or worse, have a claim denied later.

Honesty = better guidance and long-term protection.

What to Expect During the Life Insurance Application Process (If You Have Diabetes)

Let’s be real: applying for life insurance can feel overwhelming — especially when you have a health condition like diabetes.

But it doesn’t have to be.

Whether you’re applying for term, whole, or no-exam life insurance, the process is fairly predictable. And with the right prep, it’s often faster and easier than people expect.

Here’s exactly what to expect, step by step.

Step 1: Strategy Call or Quote Request

Your first step should always be getting matched with the right company based on your health profile — not just picking a random quote online.

Mistake to avoid: Applying with multiple companies at once or guessing which one will approve you.

When you work with a knowledgeable advisor, we shop multiple carriers behind the scenes — without triggering unnecessary denials or red flags.

Step 2: Application Submission

Depending on the policy type, your application will include:

• Basic info (age, gender, income, etc.)
• Health history — especially diabetes diagnosis, treatment, and A1C
• Medications, lifestyle questions (smoking, alcohol use, etc.)

If it’s a no-exam life insurance policy, this may be all you need. Many of these are approved in 1–5 days.

Step 3: Medical Exam (if required)

For fully underwritten policies (especially higher coverage amounts), a paramedical exam may be scheduled. It’s fast and painless, usually done at your home or office.

It includes:

• Blood draw
• Urine sample
• Height, weight, and blood pressure

Some companies also request an EKG if you’re over 50 or applying for a large policy.

Step 4: Medical Record Review (APS)

If you have diabetes, the insurance company may request an Attending Physician Statement (APS) — a summary from your doctor about:

• Your diagnosis and A1C history
• Medications and compliance
• Any complications (neuropathy, kidney, eyes, etc.)

Tip: Having recent labs and checkup notes ready can speed this up.

Step 5: Underwriting Decision

This is where the carrier reviews all the data and assigns a rate class based on your health risk. You’ll receive:

• Final premium quote
• Policy type and terms
• Your official approval (or a counteroffer if needed)

Step 6: Policy Delivery and Activation

Once approved, you’ll receive the policy via email or mail. Then, after signing and submitting your first payment, the coverage becomes active, usually within 24–48 hours.

From start to finish, most applications are completed in 1–6 weeks, depending on the policy and whether medical records are required.

What If I’m Declined?

If you’re declined, don’t panic — it doesn’t mean you’re uninsurable.

Most declines happen because the wrong company was chosen, not because the person is uninsurable. That’s why I always pre-screen your case with multiple diabetic-friendly carriers before submitting anything formal.

Graphic Idea: Life Insurance Application Checklist for Diabetics

FAQs

Can I get life insurance if I use insulin?

Yes, but you’ll need to be strategic. Type 1 diabetics who use insulin can still qualify, even for term or permanent policies, as long as their condition is well-managed and complications are minimal. Type 2 diabetics who use insulin are also insurable, though you may face higher premiums than those using only oral meds.

The key is applying through carriers who are familiar with insulin-dependent cases, not just mass-market quote engines.

Is life insurance more expensive if I have diabetes?

It can be, depending on your A1C levels, whether you use oral meds or insulin, your age, BMI, and any complications, and the type of policy you choose. That said, many of my diabetic clients are surprised at how affordable their final rate is, especially when we compare offers from multiple companies.

What’s the best life insurance for diabetics over 50?

Great question. If you’re over 50, the most common options include:

• Guaranteed Universal Life (GUL) — for affordable permanent coverage
• Final Expense Insurance — for smaller, no-exam policies
• No-Exam Term Policies — if your health is still stable

I typically recommend GUL if you’re looking to lock in long-term protection without overpaying.

Can I get life insurance without a medical exam if I have diabetes?

Yes — especially if you are managing Type 2 diabetes, using oral medications (not insulin and are under age 60 with no complications.

No-exam life insurance for diabetics is more available than ever. Companies like SBLI, Foresters, and Banner offer coverage up to $500,000+ without a single needle.

Will my diabetes complications prevent me from getting coverage?

Complications like neuropathy or mild retinopathy don’t always prevent you from getting life insurance. While these issues may restrict options, there are still ways to obtain coverage. You can consider table-rated term or permanent policies with adjusted premiums for risk, or look into final expense or guaranteed issue life insurance.

Can I reapply for better rates if my health improves?

Absolutely. If you’ve recently lowered your A1C, lost weight, quit smoking, or reduced medications, you may qualify for better rates by reapplying with a different carrier, requesting a policy review or reevaluation, or converting your term policy to a permanent one, if that option is available.

Conclusion

If you’ve made it this far, you already know more about life insurance for diabetics than most agents do.

Here’s the bottom line:
Having diabetes doesn’t disqualify you from getting life insurance. Not even close.

Whether you have Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes, there are more options than ever before — and more carriers willing to work with you. The key is matching your health profile with the right policy, from the right company, at the right time.

And that’s exactly what I help my clients do every day.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

There’s no pressure. No sales pitch. Just clarity and guidance.

👉Option 1: Request a free, no-obligation quote
👉Option 2: Book a 15-minute strategy call with Chris

I’ll walk you through your options, help you avoid costly mistakes, and make sure you get the best offer possible based on your unique health and goals.

Because life insurance isn’t about fear — it’s about peace of mind, protection, and knowing your family’s future is secure no matter what.

Let’s find the right policy for you — without the guesswork.