One of the most common questions we hear is: "Will I even qualify for life insurance?" The short answer for most people is yes. Insurance carriers evaluate applications differently, and TermHero’s job is to match you with the carrier that views your profile most favorably.

Even if you’ve been declined before or have health conditions, there are often options available. Let’s break down what carriers look at and how we help.

What Insurance Carriers Evaluate

Age

Age is the single biggest factor in life insurance pricing. The younger you are when you apply, the lower your rates. But coverage is available at virtually every age – we regularly help clients in their 60s and 70s find affordable options.

Health History

Carriers look at your overall health picture: chronic conditions, medications, surgeries, family history, and recent doctor visits. Having a health condition doesn’t automatically disqualify you – it may simply mean certain carriers are a better fit than others.

Tobacco Use

Smokers and tobacco users pay significantly higher rates. However, if you’ve quit, many carriers offer non-smoker rates after 12 months tobacco-free. Some are more lenient than others – and that’s where our market knowledge helps.

Lifestyle Factors

Carriers may ask about occupation, hobbies (skydiving, scuba diving, etc.), driving record, and travel to certain countries. Most standard occupations and lifestyles qualify without issue.

Coverage Amount

The amount of coverage you’re requesting relative to your income and assets is also considered. Carriers want to ensure the coverage amount is reasonable and justified.

Common Health Conditions & Coverage

Many people assume health conditions will prevent them from getting coverage. In reality, millions of Americans with these conditions carry life insurance:

  • Diabetes – Type 2 diabetes is underwritten by most carriers, especially if well-controlled
  • High Blood Pressure – Very common and insurable with most carriers if managed with medication
  • High Cholesterol – Rarely a disqualifier on its own
  • Anxiety & Depression – Generally insurable if managed and stable
  • Sleep Apnea – Insurable with treatment (CPAP use)
  • History of Cancer – Many carriers will approve applicants who have been in remission for 2-5+ years
  • Heart Conditions – Depends on severity, but options exist even after cardiac events

If you have a condition not listed here, call us. Chances are good we’ve helped someone in a similar situation.

Coverage Options by Health Status

Excellent Health

You’ll qualify for the best rates ("Preferred Plus" or "Super Preferred") from most carriers. A medical exam can lock in the lowest possible rate.

Average Health

Most carriers will offer you "Standard" rates, which are still very affordable. Minor conditions or slightly elevated numbers won’t price you out.

Health Challenges

This is where working with an independent agency like TermHero matters most. We know which carriers specialize in specific conditions and can often find coverage others can’t.

Guaranteed Acceptance

If traditional underwriting isn’t an option, guaranteed acceptance policies require no health questions at all. Coverage amounts are lower, but it ensures you have some protection in place.

Find Out What You Qualify For

Don’t assume you can’t get covered. Let TermHero shop the market and find carriers that fit your profile.

Call (818) 222-1076 or get your free quote – it takes just a few minutes and there’s zero obligation.