Finding the right insurance, or any insurance at all, can be a daunting task when there are pre-existing medical conditions present.
It is oftentimes frustrating to find term life insurance as companies tend to flat-out deny those with pre-existing conditions, or if there is no denial, they are placed in a high-risk policy, which is oftentimes more costly.
Despite these challenges and frustrations, finding insurance with pre-existing conditions is not impossible.
In fact, in just about every case, there are plenty of affordable life insurance options. Even applicants with pre-existing conditions are surprised to see how affordable their policy can be.
Table of Contents
- What Is Your Pre-existing Condition?
- Avoid The Fuss With No Medical Exam Life Insurance
- It’s Best to Compare Between Different Insurance Companies
- The Role of Independent Agents in Finding the Right Fit
- Getting the Lowest Rates Possible
- Deciding How Much Life Insurance You Need
- The Bottom Line – Life Insurance With Pre-existing Conditions
What Is Your Pre-existing Condition?
The type of pre-existing condition is perhaps the biggest consideration when shopping for new life insurance. From one insurer to the next, the types of policies for people with certain conditions will vary.
Life insurance companies rate conditions differently based on the level of risk they believe are associated with it.
When considering conditions such as cancer, many insurance companies may not accept that level of risk since there is not a long life expectancy associated with these types of conditions. Although this is the case, other considerations are factored in, such as whether or not it is in remission.
The main thing that insurance underwriters are considering is how threatening the condition is to the life of the policyholder, so obviously, there are usually multiple variables at play. The good news is that insurance companies are adapting and changing with medical advancements.
When it may have been impossible in the past to receive insurance with pre-existing conditions, insurance companies recognize that certain conditions can be treated or slowed due to new research and technology.
Avoid The Fuss With No Medical Exam Life Insurance
Another great option is a no-medical exam life insurance policy. If you have not been previously diagnosed with a condition, this may be a great option.
Although these types of policies usually run at a higher premium, the coverage is usually guaranteed, and the policy coverage varies slightly from a standard term life policy. Despite the guaranteed coverage, it is a good idea to disclose any medical conditions you may have.
In today’s market, there is far more competition in terms of top-rated life insurance companies. Because of this, they are oftentimes aggressive in the risks that they take. For this reason, you need to shop around or even work with a professional who can point you in the right direction.
These policies, of course, usually come at a higher rate, but it is a good option still for those who may have been denied by a more traditional life insurance provider.
It’s Best to Compare Between Different Insurance Companies
Perhaps the biggest factor related to a pre-existing condition that there is no way around is the higher cost. Insurance companies need a way to compensate for the additional risk. However, many companies will treat certain conditions differently than others.
For example, there are some companies that view conditions like diabetes more favorably than others.
With some companies, if you have well-controlled type 2 diabetes, you could get great rates, but other companies are automatically going to skyrocket your rates because of the diabetes diagnosis.
The best course of action is to be proactive with your condition and try to manage it the best way that you can.
Insurance companies have been known to consider these types of things and reduce your premium over time as it is demonstrated that you are getting your condition under control.
Thankfully, with advances in the medical community, it is no longer the case that pre-existing means denial. It is still a good idea to shop around and find the best fit for your particular condition.
Spending the extra time upfront can save you a lot of money in the long run, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are insured is invaluable.
The Role of Independent Agents in Finding the Right Fit
The benefits of finding the perfect company are clear and compelling: lower insurance rates that can result in significant savings over time.
However, navigating the vast landscape of insurance providers and understanding their individual nuances can be a challenging endeavor.
Simply put, while the end goal is desirable, the journey to pinpoint the right company requires careful research and consideration.
Engaging an expert, particularly our independent agents, can be a game-changer in your insurance search journey. These agents have the advantage of representing a multitude of companies, offering a wider scope of options tailored to your needs.
Additionally, their deep knowledge of company policies ensures that they can guide you to those insurers who are more lenient or favorable towards your specific pre-existing condition, optimizing your chances of securing the best deal.
Getting the Lowest Rates Possible
We just mentioned a great way to get lower monthly rates by working with an independent agent, but that isn’t the only way.
The first thing to do is improve your health. Sure, you have a health problem, and it’s going to impact your monthly rates, but there are still some health factors that you can improve to get a better classification from the insurance company.
The best thing you can do is to shed a couple of pounds. The majority of life insurance applicants are keeping a few more pounds than they should, and losing that weight could have an extremely beneficial impact on your insurance plan.
Start a healthy diet and exercise program, and it will save you money.
Deciding How Much Life Insurance You Need
The next most important decision is determining how much life insurance coverage you’re going to need. The bigger your policy, the more you’re going to pay for your coverage.
If you don’t have enough coverage, you could leave your loved ones paying for all of those debts you would leave behind.
How are you supposed to know if you have enough coverage? There are several different questions that you can ask yourself to ensure that you’ve bought a large enough life insurance policy.
The first question is, “How much debt would I leave behind?” Before you buy a plan, make sure the policy will provide enough protection.
Make sure that you add up your mortgage, car payments, credit card bills, student loans, and anything else your loved ones would be responsible for paying.
The other question that you have to ask is, “How would my family suffer if they lost my salary?” The other main purpose of life insurance is to help your family find a way to replace your annual income.
Your family could have a difficult time finding a way to permanently replace that income without experiencing serious financial strain.
The Bottom Line – Life Insurance With Pre-existing Conditions
Navigating the complex world of life insurance, especially with pre-existing conditions, can indeed be challenging. However, with a clear understanding of one’s medical conditions and by exploring diverse insurance options, acquiring a suitable policy becomes achievable.
No medical exam policies present a unique solution for many, while the traditional route can still be favorable when paired with a thorough comparison of companies.
One shouldn’t be disheartened by initial high quotes or potential denials. Persistence, proactive management of health, and seeking expert advice can lead to more affordable rates.
Furthermore, ensuring the right coverage amount is crucial not just for financial considerations but for the peace of mind it offers.
In the evolving landscape of medical research and insurance industry practices, there are more opportunities than ever for individuals to find the right fit, ensuring that their loved ones are well-protected.