Diabetes Doesn't Disqualify You. Your Family Still Needs Protection.

Yes. Millions of diabetics have life insurance. The key factors are your diabetes type (Type 1 vs Type 2), A1C level, medications (oral vs insulin), age at diagnosis, and whether you have complications like neuropathy or retinopathy. Well-controlled Type 2 diabetics often qualify for standard or even preferred rates with the right carrier. Even Type 1 diabetics and those with complications have coverage options through simplified issue or guaranteed issue policies.

It depends on your specific situation. Well-controlled Type 2 diabetics (A1C under 7.0, no complications, oral medication only) may pay only 20-50% more than someone without diabetes. Moderately controlled diabetes (A1C 7.0-8.5, on insulin) may result in rates 75-150% higher. Type 1 diabetes or diabetes with complications may be 100-300% higher, or require guaranteed issue. An independent broker who compares 48+ carriers can find the one that gives you the best rating for your exact health profile.

Most carriers prefer an A1C under 7.0 for the best rates — this is the threshold where many carriers will offer standard or preferred rates. An A1C of 7.0-8.0 is still insurable with many carriers at table-rated premiums. An A1C of 8.0-9.0 significantly limits options but coverage is still available. Above 9.0, you're typically looking at guaranteed issue or simplified issue policies. Importantly, some carriers look at your A1C trend (improving vs. worsening) and your most recent reading, not just a single number.

Type 2 diabetes is significantly easier to insure than Type 1. Most carriers have standard underwriting guidelines for Type 2 and will offer competitive rates if it's well-controlled. Type 1 diabetes is harder because it requires insulin, was typically diagnosed at a younger age, and carries higher long-term complication risk. However, several carriers specialize in Type 1 coverage — the key factors are age at diagnosis (later is better), current A1C, years since diagnosis without complications, and overall health management. An independent broker who knows which carriers are favorable for Type 1 is essential.

Yes. Insulin use does not automatically disqualify you from life insurance. Many carriers distinguish between insulin-dependent Type 2 (where oral medications were insufficient) and Type 1 (insulin-dependent from diagnosis). For Type 2 on insulin, many carriers will still offer coverage at table-rated premiums if your A1C is controlled. For Type 1, select carriers specialize in insulin-dependent applicants. The key is finding a carrier whose guidelines are favorable for insulin users — which varies dramatically from company to company.

A decline from one carrier absolutely does not mean you can't get coverage. Different carriers have vastly different underwriting guidelines for diabetes. One carrier might decline a Type 2 diabetic with an A1C of 7.5, while another offers standard rates for the same profile. We regularly help people who've been declined elsewhere find coverage at reasonable rates with a different carrier. The key is working with an independent broker who pre-screens your profile against all carriers before submitting a single application.

Yes. Several carriers offer simplified issue (limited health questions, no exam) and guaranteed issue (no health questions, no exam, everyone accepted) policies for diabetics. Simplified issue policies may cover $25,000-$500,000 and ask about diabetes control but don't require lab work. Guaranteed issue policies accept everyone ages 50-85 regardless of diabetes status, with coverage up to $50,000 and a graded death benefit. These are available regardless of your A1C level or complications.

The complications that most significantly impact underwriting are: diabetic retinopathy (eye damage), diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage, especially if on dialysis), peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), cardiovascular disease (heart attack, stroke, peripheral artery disease), and diabetic foot ulcers or amputations. If you have one or more complications, traditional fully-underwritten policies become difficult, but simplified issue and guaranteed issue options remain available. Some carriers are more lenient on specific complications than others.

Age at diagnosis is a significant underwriting factor. Diabetes diagnosed after age 40-50 is viewed more favorably because it suggests a less aggressive form of the disease with fewer years of potential complications. Diabetes diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood (especially Type 1) indicates longer disease duration and higher cumulative complication risk. However, a 30-year-old diagnosed at age 10 with 20 years of excellent control and no complications can still get coverage — it just requires the right carrier.

Yes, always. Failing to disclose a known medical condition is fraud and can result in your policy being voided and claims denied — potentially leaving your family with nothing when they need it most. The good news is that with 48+ carriers available through an independent broker, there is almost certainly one that views your specific diabetes profile favorably. Honest disclosure with the right carrier always produces better outcomes than non-disclosure with any carrier.

Three paths exist: (1) Fully underwritten — traditional application with medical records review, possible exam. Best rates if you qualify (A1C under 7.0, no complications). (2) Simplified issue — health questions only, no exam, faster approval, slightly higher rates. Good for moderate diabetes or those who want to avoid labs. (3) Guaranteed issue — no questions, no exam, everyone accepted. Highest rates and graded death benefit, but guaranteed coverage regardless of health. An independent broker helps you determine which path gives you the best combination of coverage, cost, and approval certainty.