Yes, you can get life insurance with diabetes — and in many cases, at more affordable rates than you might expect. The key factors that determine your eligibility and premiums are your A1C level, diabetes type (Type 1 vs. Type 2), how well-controlled your condition is, and whether you have any complications. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything diabetic applicants need to know to find the best coverage at the best price.
Understanding How Diabetes Affects Life Insurance
Diabetes is one of the most common health conditions that life insurance underwriters evaluate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 37 million Americans have diabetes, and another 96 million have prediabetes. Insurance carriers have decades of actuarial data on diabetic applicants, which means they can offer nuanced pricing rather than blanket denials.
The underwriting process for diabetic applicants focuses on several critical factors: the type of diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2), your most recent A1C level, your age at diagnosis, current medications (oral vs. insulin), the presence of any complications (neuropathy, retinopathy, kidney disease, cardiovascular issues), and your overall health profile including weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
It is important to understand that not all insurance carriers evaluate diabetes the same way. Some carriers are significantly more lenient toward diabetic applicants than others. This is precisely why working with an independent broker who compares quotes from 48+ carriers — like Evolve Legacy Group — is essential for finding the best rate.
Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes: Underwriting Differences
Insurance carriers draw a clear distinction between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, and the underwriting approach differs significantly for each.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is far more common and generally viewed more favorably by underwriters. If you were diagnosed after age 40, maintain an A1C below 7.0, manage your condition with diet, exercise, or oral medications (like metformin), and have no complications, you may qualify for Standard or even Preferred rates at some carriers. Type 2 diabetics who demonstrate excellent control often receive surprisingly competitive offers.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes typically results in higher premiums because it requires insulin management and is usually diagnosed at a younger age. However, Type 1 diabetics with well-controlled A1C levels (under 7.5), no complications, and a stable health history can still qualify for coverage. Some carriers specialize in Type 1 applicants and offer more competitive rates than the industry average.
| Factor | Type 1 Diabetes | Type 2 Diabetes |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Age at Diagnosis | Childhood / Young Adult | Age 40+ |
| Insulin Required | Always | Sometimes (advanced cases) |
| Best Possible Rating | Standard (with excellent control) | Preferred (with excellent control) |
| A1C Target for Best Rates | Under 7.5 | Under 7.0 |
| Carrier Availability | Fewer carriers, specialist needed | Most carriers will quote |
| Typical Premium Impact | 50-150% above standard | 0-75% above standard |
A1C Levels and Rate Classes: What to Expect
Your A1C level is the single most important number in the underwriting process for diabetic applicants. A1C measures your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months and gives underwriters a clear picture of how well-controlled your diabetes is. Here is a general breakdown of how A1C levels correlate with rate classes:
| A1C Level | Type 2 Rating | Type 1 Rating | Premium Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 6.5 | Preferred to Standard Plus | Standard | 0-25% above non-diabetic |
| 6.5 - 7.0 | Standard | Standard to Table B | 25-50% above non-diabetic |
| 7.0 - 8.0 | Table B to Table D | Table C to Table F | 50-100% above non-diabetic |
| 8.0 - 9.0 | Table D to Table H | Table F to Decline | 100-200% above non-diabetic |
| Above 9.0 | Decline or Guaranteed Issue | Decline or Guaranteed Issue | Guaranteed Issue rates |
Pro Tip: Timing Your Application
If your A1C has been trending downward, consider waiting until your next blood test to apply. A recent A1C improvement can make a significant difference in your rate class. Your broker can help you time your application strategically.
Sample Rates for Diabetics: What to Actually Expect
One of the biggest concerns for diabetic applicants is cost. While rates are higher than for non-diabetic applicants, they are often more affordable than people expect — especially for well-controlled Type 2 diabetics. Here are sample monthly rates for a $500,000 20-year term policy:
| Age | Non-Diabetic (Preferred) | Type 2 (A1C < 7.0) | Type 2 (A1C 7.0-8.0) | Type 1 (A1C < 7.5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | $22/mo | $35-$45/mo | $55-$75/mo | $65-$90/mo |
| 40 | $30/mo | $50-$65/mo | $80-$110/mo | $95-$130/mo |
| 50 | $65/mo | $95-$130/mo | $150-$200/mo | $180-$250/mo |
| 60 | $155/mo | $220-$300/mo | $350-$475/mo | $400-$550/mo |
*Sample rates are for illustrative purposes only. Actual rates depend on health profile, carrier, and underwriting decision. Male, non-smoker, $500,000 20-year term.
Best Carriers for Diabetic Applicants
Not all insurance carriers are created equal when it comes to diabetes underwriting. Based on our experience placing hundreds of diabetic clients, here are the carriers that consistently offer the best outcomes:
- Mutual of Omaha — One of the most diabetes-friendly carriers. Competitive rates on well-controlled Type 2 diabetics and even some Type 1 applicants.
- Transamerica — Wide product range with favorable underwriting for diabetics with A1C under 8.0. Strong simplified issue options.
- Americo — Competitive on both term and whole life for diabetic applicants. More flexible guidelines for Type 2 diabetics on oral medications.
- Corebridge (formerly AIG) — Historically lenient for well-controlled Type 2 diabetics with no complications.
- Foresters Financial — Simplified issue products that avoid the traditional exam process, ideal for diabetics wanting faster approval.
- NLG (National Life Group) — Competitive IUL products for diabetics seeking permanent coverage with cash value growth.
Diabetes Complications and Their Impact on Coverage
While well-controlled diabetes alone may result in only a modest premium increase, the presence of complications can significantly affect your eligibility and rates:
| Complication | Impact on Underwriting | Typical Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Neuropathy (mild) | Moderate increase | Table rated (1-3 tables) |
| Retinopathy (non-proliferative) | Moderate increase | Table rated (2-4 tables) |
| Kidney Disease (early stage) | Significant increase | Table rated (4-8 tables) or decline |
| Cardiovascular Disease | Major increase | High table rating or decline |
| No Complications | Minimal to moderate | Standard or mild table rating |
Coverage Options for Diabetics
Diabetic applicants have several coverage options ranging from fully underwritten (most affordable if you qualify) to guaranteed issue (no health questions, higher premiums):
- Fully Underwritten Term Life — Most affordable if you qualify. Full medical exam and health review. Carriers like Americo, Transamerica, and American Amicable offer strong term options.
- Simplified Issue — No medical exam, just a health questionnaire. Higher premiums but faster approval. Good for moderate control or mild complications. See our no-exam guide.
- Guaranteed Issue — Accepts everyone regardless of health. Limited coverage ($5K-$25K), highest premiums, 2-3 year waiting period. Last resort option. Mutual of Omaha and Ethos offer competitive products. Learn about guaranteed issue.
- Indexed Universal Life (IUL) — Permanent coverage with cash value growth. NLG and Corebridge offer competitive underwriting. Learn about IUL policies.
7 Tips to Get the Best Rates as a Diabetic
- Get your A1C as low as possible before applying. Even a small improvement (e.g., from 7.2 to 6.8) can move you into a better rate class.
- Work with an independent broker. We compare 48+ carriers to find the most favorable one for your specific profile.
- Gather your medical records in advance. Recent A1C results, medication list, and doctor's notes speed up the process.
- Be completely honest on your application. Misrepresentation can lead to claim denial. Carriers verify medical records during underwriting.
- Consider a graded approach. Get guaranteed issue now for immediate coverage, then apply for fully underwritten once your A1C improves.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, healthy diet, and healthy weight all contribute to better A1C and underwriting outcomes.
- Ask about reconsideration. After 1-2 years of improved A1C, many carriers will upgrade your rate class without a new application.
How Medications Affect Underwriting
The medications you take play a role in the underwriting process:
- Diet and exercise only — Most favorable. Some carriers may not apply a diabetic rating if A1C is under 6.5.
- Metformin — Very common and well-accepted. Does not significantly impact your rate class.
- Other oral medications (sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors) — Generally well-accepted.
- GLP-1 receptor agonists (Ozempic, Trulicity, Mounjaro) — Increasingly common and viewed favorably if improving A1C and weight.
- Insulin — Higher premiums but not a disqualifier. Key is demonstrating good control (A1C under 8.0) and no complications.
Why an Independent Broker Is Essential for Diabetics
Do not apply for life insurance on your own if you have diabetes. The difference between carriers can be enormous — one carrier might offer Standard rates while another declines you entirely for the exact same health profile. An experienced independent broker knows which carriers are most lenient and how to present your case favorably.
At Evolve Legacy Group, we have placed hundreds of diabetic clients with coverage they thought they could not get. Our service is 100% free — carriers pay us, not you. The premiums are the same whether you buy direct or through a broker. Learn more about why a broker beats going direct.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get life insurance with Type 1 diabetes?
Yes. Type 1 diabetics can get life insurance, though rates are typically higher. The key factors are your A1C level, how well-controlled your diabetes is, your age at diagnosis, and whether you have complications. Some carriers specialize in diabetic applicants and offer more competitive rates.
What A1C level do I need for the best life insurance rates?
For Type 2 diabetics, an A1C under 7.0 is the target for the best rates. For Type 1 diabetics, an A1C under 7.5 is generally needed for Standard rates. The lower your A1C, the better your rate class.
Is insulin use a deal-breaker for life insurance?
No. Many insulin-dependent diabetics get approved, especially with well-controlled A1C and no complications. Underwriting focuses on overall diabetes management, not just insulin use.
How much more expensive is life insurance for diabetics?
Well-controlled Type 2 diabetics may pay 25-50% more than non-diabetics. Type 1 or those with complications may pay 50-150% more. Guaranteed issue policies can cost 3-5x more than fully underwritten.
Can I get my rate reduced after my A1C improves?
Yes, many carriers offer reconsideration after 1-2 years of improved A1C. If your health has improved, they may upgrade your rate class without a new application.
What if I have been declined due to diabetes?
A decline from one carrier does not mean you cannot get coverage. Different carriers have very different guidelines. An independent broker can shop your case to more lenient carriers. Guaranteed issue policies are also available as a last resort.
Should I disclose my diabetes on my application?
Absolutely. Failing to disclose is material misrepresentation and can result in claim denial. Carriers access medical records (MIB, prescription databases) during underwriting, so non-disclosure will be discovered.
