Can Diabetics Get Life Insurance?
Yes, absolutely! Having diabetes does NOT disqualify you from getting life insurance. In fact, many top insurance carriers specifically design policies for seniors with diabetes and other pre-existing conditions.
The key factors that affect your eligibility and rate are:
- Type of diabetes — Type 1 vs Type 2
- How well controlled — A1C levels matter
- Complications — kidney disease, neuropathy, etc.
- Age at diagnosis — later diagnosis = better rates
- Other health conditions — overall health picture
Even seniors with poorly controlled diabetes or serious diabetic complications can qualify for Guaranteed Issue life insurance — no health questions, no exam, 100% approval guaranteed.
Best Life Insurance Options for Diabetic Seniors
Rates for Diabetic Seniors — 2026
Here are average monthly rates for seniors with controlled Type 2 diabetes:
| Age | Final Expense $10K | Guaranteed Issue $10K | Whole Life $25K |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | $42/mo | $55/mo | $95/mo |
| 65 | $55/mo | $70/mo | $125/mo |
| 70 | $72/mo | $90/mo | $170/mo |
| 75 | $98/mo | $120/mo | Not Available |
| 80 | $135/mo | $155/mo | Not Available |
Type 1 vs Type 2 — Does It Matter?
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetics face slightly stricter underwriting. However, options are still available:
- Final expense insurance — most carriers accept with few questions
- Guaranteed issue — always available regardless of Type 1 status
- Whole life — harder to qualify, requires excellent control
Type 2 Diabetes (Controlled)
Controlled Type 2 diabetes (A1C under 8.0) is one of the most widely accepted conditions in senior life insurance. Most carriers treat it as a standard condition:
- Final expense insurance — widely accepted, competitive rates
- Whole life — available with good A1C and no complications
- Guaranteed issue — always available as backup
What Makes Diabetic Rates Higher?
These factors can increase your premium as a diabetic senior:
| Factor | Impact on Rate |
|---|---|
| A1C over 9.0 | Significant increase |
| Kidney disease | Major increase or denial |
| Diabetic retinopathy | Moderate increase |
| Neuropathy | Moderate increase |
| Heart disease + diabetes | Significant increase |
| Smoker + diabetes | Very high increase |
Tips to Get the Best Rate as a Diabetic Senior
- Control your A1C — Under 8.0 gets significantly better rates
- Compare multiple carriers — Different insurers treat diabetes very differently
- Be honest — Never hide your diabetes; it can void your policy
- Start with final expense — Most accepting, lowest barrier
- Use an independent agent — They know which carriers are most diabetes-friendly
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be denied because of diabetes?
Not necessarily. While some carriers may decline or charge higher rates, Guaranteed Issue insurance accepts everyone — no questions, no exam, no exceptions. You will always find coverage.
Do I need to disclose my diabetes?
For simplified issue policies — yes, always be honest. For Guaranteed Issue — no questions are asked, so no disclosure needed. Never lie on an application as it can void your policy.
What A1C level is needed for better rates?
Most carriers offer standard rates for A1C under 8.0. Between 8.0 and 9.0, rates increase moderately. Above 9.0, only final expense or guaranteed issue is typically available.
