Life Insurance for Diabetics in 2025: What You Qualify For & How to Get Approved Fast

Life Insurance for Diabetics in 2025: What You Qualify For and How to Apply

If you have diabetes, finding life insurance can feel like an uphill battle. The good news? Life insurance for diabetics in 2025 is more accessible than ever thanks to advanced underwriting tools, improved medication, and growing insurer awareness. Whether you’re managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, you can get coverage—sometimes even without a medical exam.

This guide will walk you through what coverage you may qualify for, how insurers assess your risk, and what steps to take to get approved.

Why Life Insurance Is Essential for Diabetics

Financial Protection for Loved Ones

Diabetes is a manageable condition—but it comes with lifelong health risks. A life insurance policy ensures your family will have the financial support they need if something unexpected happens. It helps cover:

• Funeral expenses
• Medical bills
• Debt repayment
• Ongoing living expenses
• Children's education

Rising Health Risks and the Need for Security

Complications from diabetes—like cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, or stroke—can affect longevity. Life insurance provides security and peace of mind, even when health risks are present.

Can Diabetics Get Life Insurance in 2025?

Yes, But It Depends on Your Condition

Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics can qualify for life insurance, but the policy options and premiums vary significantly. Insurers assess your level of risk based on how well your diabetes is managed.

What Insurers Look At

When evaluating your application, insurers will examine:

• Type of diabetes (Type 1 vs. Type 2)
• Age at diagnosis
• Most recent A1C level
• Blood pressure and cholesterol readings
• Current medications
• Lifestyle and compliance with treatment
• Presence of complications (e.g., neuropathy, retinopathy)

What Life Insurance Options Do Diabetics Qualify For in 2025?

Term Life Insurance for Diabetics

Best for: Type 2 diabetics with controlled A1C

• Lower premiums
• Fixed coverage for 10–30 years
• Often requires a medical exam

Whole Life Insurance for Diabetics

Best for: Applicants wanting permanent protection

• Premiums remain fixed
• Builds cash value
• Suitable for estate planning
• More expensive than term

Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance

Best for: Older diabetics with complications

• No medical exam or health questions
• Smaller death benefit ($5,000–$25,000)
• 2-year waiting period before full benefits activate

Simplified Issue Life Insurance

Best for: Diabetics with decent control

• No medical exam
• Short health questionnaire
• Quicker approval than fully underwritten policies

How Insurers Evaluate Diabetic Applicants

A1C Levels and Blood Sugar Control

A1C below 7% is generally viewed as excellent control. Levels between 7.1% and 8.5% may still qualify for standard rates. Levels above 9% often result in higher premiums or limited coverage.

Age at Diagnosis

Those diagnosed later in life, particularly with Type 2 diabetes, are typically rated more favorably than those diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.

Medication and Lifestyle Management

Insurers favor applicants who are consistent with medication, follow treatment plans, maintain healthy diets, and exercise regularly.

Presence of Complications

Conditions like kidney disease, neuropathy, retinopathy, or amputations may trigger higher premiums or lead to denial with traditional policies.

How to Improve Your Chances of Approval

Keep Your A1C Below 7%

Lower A1C is directly linked to lower insurance risk. Regular check-ups and medication adherence can help.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

A healthy BMI reduces the risk of complications and increases your chances of favorable underwriting.

Work With a Broker Specializing in Diabetic Cases

An experienced agent can connect you with insurers that regularly approve diabetic applicants and help you navigate exclusions and rate classes.

Top Life Insurance Companies for Diabetics in 2025

Prudential, Mutual of Omaha, John Hancock

These insurers are known for offering favorable underwriting to diabetics. Some provide specialized underwriting programs for applicants with well-managed diabetes.

Insurers That Offer Wellness Credits

Companies like John Hancock (Vitality Program) reward healthy lifestyle habits (like regular glucose checks or steps walked) with lower premiums and wellness discounts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Life Insurance as a Diabetic

Step 1: Gather Your Medical Records

Prepare:

• Recent lab results (A1C)
• Medication list
• Doctor notes on diabetes management
• Any specialist consultations

Step 2: Compare Quotes from Diabetic-Friendly Providers

Request quotes from multiple insurers who understand diabetic underwriting.

Step 3: Choose a Policy Type and Coverage Amount

Select between term, whole, or simplified issue based on your budget and long-term needs.

Step 4: Complete Application and Take Medical Exam (If Required)

Some policies require blood tests, urinalysis, and a physical exam, while others only require a health questionnaire.

Step 5: Review Offers and Sign Your Policy

Once approved, carefully review the terms, premiums, and exclusions, then activate your coverage.

FAQs: Life Insurance for Diabetics in 2025

Q1: Can I get life insurance if I have Type 1 diabetes?
Yes, though it may be limited to certain policy types and come with higher premiums.

Q2: What A1C level is considered “good” by insurers?
Generally, anything below 7.0% is seen as well-controlled.

Q3: Will I have to take a medical exam?
Some policies require it, but simplified and guaranteed issue options do not.

Q4: Can I be denied life insurance for diabetes?
Yes, especially if there are complications or poor control. However, alternative policies are still available.

Q5: Is life insurance more expensive for diabetics?
Yes, but rates vary based on how well the condition is managed.

Q6: Can I switch to a better policy later?
If your health improves, you may reapply or request a rate reconsideration.

Conclusion: Get Covered, Stay Protected

Life insurance for diabetics in 2025 is not out of reach—it’s just a matter of finding the right company and preparing your application strategically. Whether you’ve had diabetes for years or were recently diagnosed, options exist to protect your family’s financial future.

Start with a health-conscious lifestyle, work with a specialist broker, and secure a policy that aligns with your health and goals. The sooner you act, the more affordable and beneficial your coverage can be.