Can You Get Life Insurance with Diabetes?
Yes — people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes get approved for life insurance every day. The key is knowing which carriers are most favorable for diabetics and presenting your case correctly.
What underwriters care about most:
- A1C level — the single most important number. Under 7.0 gets near-normal rates. Over 9.0 may result in decline.
- Time since diagnosis — longer history with controlled management looks better
- Complications — neuropathy, retinopathy, kidney disease each add risk
- Medications — insulin use typically results in higher rates than oral medications alone
- Age at diagnosis — early onset (especially Type 1) is viewed differently than later-onset Type 2
How A1C Affects Your Life Insurance Rate
| A1C Level | Typical Rate Impact | Likely Health Class | Approval Odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 6.5 (excellent control) | +10–25% above standard | Standard Plus | Very High |
| 6.5–7.4 (good control) | +25–50% above standard | Standard | High |
| 7.5–8.4 (moderate control) | +50–100% above standard | Table B–D | Moderate |
| 8.5–9.4 (poor control) | +100–200% above standard | Table D–H | Lower |
| Over 9.5 (uncontrolled) | Typically declined at most carriers | Decline | Very Low |
Best Life Insurance Companies for Diabetics (2026)
| Company | Why It's Good for Diabetics | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Prudential | Most favorable underwriting for T2 diabetics with good A1C | Type 2 on oral medications, A1C under 8 |
| Lincoln Financial | Good rates for insulin-dependent T2 with stable history | Insulin users with long stable history |
| Pacific Life | Standard rates possible for well-controlled T2 | T2, A1C under 7, no complications |
| Protective Life | Good overall rates, decent on diabetes | Well-controlled T2, 40+ |
| AIG / Am. General | Accepts higher A1C than most | T2 with A1C 8–9, age 50+ |
| Banner Life | Fair underwriting for Type 1 diabetics | Type 1 with excellent control, pumps |
Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes — How Underwriting Differs
Type 2 diabetes is viewed more favorably — especially if managed with diet/exercise or oral medications, diagnosed after age 40, and with a short history and no complications. Well-controlled Type 2 applicants can often get standard or standard-plus rates.
Type 1 diabetes is typically rated higher (more expensive) due to lifelong insulin dependence and historical complications. However, with an A1C consistently under 7.5 and no complications, many T1 diabetics get approved at reasonable table ratings (Table B–D).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get no-exam life insurance with diabetes?
Sometimes. Simplified issue policies don't require an exam but do ask health questions. If your diabetes is controlled, you may qualify. Guaranteed issue policies ($5K–$25K) accept anyone regardless of diabetes history.
Will my rate ever improve if my A1C improves?
No — once issued, your rate is locked. But you can apply for a new policy if your health significantly improves. A broker can help you time this strategically.
Get the Best Rate with Diabetes
We know which carriers are most lenient for diabetics. The right carrier can save you $50–$100+/month vs applying directly.
Find My Best Rate →