Yes, smokers pay more for life insurance. But "more" doesn’t mean unaffordable – and it definitely doesn’t mean you should go without coverage. Your family needs protection regardless of your tobacco use, and TermHero knows which carriers offer the most competitive rates for smokers.

We also know the rules around quitting. If you’ve recently quit or are planning to, there are strategies to get you better rates sooner.

How Tobacco Use Affects Your Rates

Smoker rates are typically 2-3x higher than non-smoker rates. For example:

$500,000 Coverage – 20-Year Term (age 35, otherwise healthy):

  • Non-smoker: $25-32/month
  • Smoker: $70-95/month

That’s a significant difference, but $70-95/month for $500,000 in coverage is still a reasonable price for protecting your family. And rates vary widely between carriers – which is why shopping matters.

What Counts as Tobacco Use?

Carriers define tobacco use broadly, but not identically. Here’s how most carriers classify common products:

  • Cigarettes – Always classified as smoker
  • Cigars – Occasional (1-2/month) may qualify for non-smoker rates with some carriers. Daily cigar use is rated as smoker
  • Chewing tobacco / Dip – Most carriers rate this as smoker, but a few offer non-smoker rates for smokeless tobacco
  • Nicotine patches / Gum – Considered tobacco use by most carriers since nicotine is present
  • Vaping / E-cigarettes – Varies widely. Some carriers treat vaping as non-smoker, others as smoker. This is one of the biggest areas where carrier selection matters
  • Marijuana – Some carriers allow occasional marijuana use at non-smoker rates. Policies vary significantly

This is why working with TermHero matters. If you use cigars occasionally or vape instead of smoking, the right carrier choice could save you thousands over the life of your policy.

Recently Quit? Here’s the Timeline

If you’ve quit using tobacco, your rates improve over time:

  • Quit less than 12 months ago – Most carriers still rate you as a smoker
  • Quit 12+ months ago – Several carriers will offer non-smoker rates
  • Quit 2+ years ago – Most carriers offer non-smoker rates
  • Quit 3-5+ years ago – You may qualify for Preferred Non-Smoker rates

Strategy: If you quit 6-8 months ago, it may be worth waiting a few months to apply so you cross the 12-month threshold. But if you need coverage now, get a smoker-rated policy today and apply for a new non-smoker policy after you hit the 12-month mark. You can cancel the first policy once the second is in place.

Tips for Getting the Best Smoker Rates

  • Be honest – Carriers test for nicotine (blood, urine, or saliva). If you claim non-smoker status and test positive, your application will be declined
  • Shop multiple carriers – Smoker rates vary more between carriers than non-smoker rates. The difference between the cheapest and most expensive carrier can be 40%+
  • Consider the quit timeline – If quitting is realistic, factor the timing into your application strategy
  • Check cigar and vape classifications – If you don’t smoke cigarettes, some carriers may offer much better rates
  • Don’t skip coverage – A smoker-rated policy is infinitely better than no policy. Your family needs protection now, not after you quit

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I lie about smoking? Do not. Carriers test for nicotine during the application process. Even if you somehow pass the test, insurance companies can investigate claims within the first two years (the contestability period). A proven misrepresentation can void your policy entirely – meaning your family gets nothing.

What if I smoke marijuana but not cigarettes? Several carriers now offer non-smoker rates for marijuana users, especially in states where it’s legal. TermHero knows which carriers are marijuana-friendly and can find you the best rate.

Can I get my rate reduced after I quit? Some carriers allow you to request a rate reconsideration after quitting for 12+ months. Others don’t. A simpler approach is to apply for a new policy at non-smoker rates and cancel the old one. TermHero can help you time this transition.

Is vaping cheaper to insure than smoking? With the right carrier, yes. Some carriers classify vapers as non-smokers, which can cut your premium by more than half. But other carriers treat vaping the same as cigarettes. Carrier selection is everything.

What about occasional social smoking? Any tobacco use within the past 12 months typically qualifies you as a smoker. Even one cigarette at a party can trigger a positive nicotine test.

Get Your Smoker-Friendly Quote

Don’t let tobacco use stop you from protecting your family. TermHero finds the carriers that offer the fairest rates for your situation.

Call (818) 222-2300 or get your free quote