Living with diabetes shouldn’t mean giving up on life insurance—and it certainly doesn’t. In fact, more than 38 million adults in the U.S. are managing diabetes right now, and millions of them apply for life insurance every year. The truth? Insurers have come a long way. They’re no longer writing people off because of a diagnosis alone. They’re asking better questions, and they’re learning to look at the full picture.
Still, if you’ve ever applied before—or even just thought about it—you’ve probably hit a wall or two. Maybe the quotes were sky-high. Maybe you were denied outright. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re doing the hard work to stay healthy. But the system isn’t entirely broken. It just requires a little more strategy, a little more patience, and the right guide on your side.
This guide was built to walk you through Life insurance for diabetics. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with diabetes for years, whether you’re looking for basic protection or long-term financial planning—we’ll break down your real options. We’ll talk about what insurers actually care about (hint: it’s not just your diagnosis), how to get better rates, which riders can offer extra protection, and why managing your A1C and lifestyle could be the most powerful tools in your corner.
Read More: What is the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and How to Get ACA Health Insurance?
Why Life Insurance Might Feel Complicated with Diabetes — But It’s Far From Impossible
Let’s get one thing straight right away—being diabetic doesn’t mean you can’t get life insurance. It really doesn’t. What it does mean is that the path to finding the right policy might take a bit more patience. It might involve a few more questions, a few extra forms, and sometimes even a little waiting. But none of that means the door is closed. It just means we take it one step at a time—and you won’t be taking those steps alone.
Insurance companies, at their core, are built to evaluate risk. When they see “diabetes” on an application, they’re not trying to single anyone out—they’re thinking about what that condition might lead to years down the line. Things like heart issues, kidney strain, blood pressure complications, even vision concerns. From their perspective, it’s not the diabetes alone—it’s the potential ripple effects.
That’s why they’ll usually ask for more details. You might need to share your recent A1C reading. They may want to know your weight, whether you smoke, how active you are, if you’ve had any hospital stays. And yeah, some of those questions feel personal. They are. But they’re not meant to judge—they’re meant to paint a clearer picture of where your health really stands right now.
If you’re managing type 1 diabetes, you’ve likely been dealing with it most of your life. Insurers tend to be a little more cautious here—not because of anything you’ve done wrong, but because there’s been more time for potential complications to show up. It doesn’t mean you won’t get covered. It just means we may need to look toward companies that are more familiar with complex cases. The ones that see beyond the diagnosis.
Now if you’re living with type 2 diabetes, and you’ve got it under control—maybe through diet, exercise, or medication—you’re in a good position. Many people with type 2 qualify for policies with fair, even affordable, rates—especially when they’ve kept their health steady and haven’t faced any major issues. The work you’ve put in? It matters. And yes, it counts.
Here’s something I always remind people: insurance is a bit like matchmaking. One company might say no, but that just means it wasn’t the right match. Another might look at the same information and say, “We can work with this.” The goal isn’t to take the first offer. The goal is to find the right fit—someone who sees you as a whole person, not just your medical chart.
If you’ve been turned away before, I get it. It’s frustrating. But please don’t let that stop you. There are insurers out there who understand that managing diabetes takes effort, responsibility, and commitment. That’s what we show them. That’s how we find your way in.
You’re not doing this alone. And no, you’re not out of options. We just have to keep moving forward—together.
What Life Insurance Companies Really Look At When You’re Applying with Diabetes
If you’re applying for life insurance and you’re living with diabetes, I want you to hear this first: you’re not alone, and you’re not at a dead end. Yes, the process might be a little more detailed—but it’s not about catching you out or telling you “no.” It’s about getting a full, honest picture of your health, so the insurer knows who they’re covering. That’s it.
Age (and Age of Diagnosis)
Age always comes up first. How old you are now—and how old you were when you were first diagnosed. That second part can feel especially frustrating, I know. If you’ve had diabetes for a long time, insurers assume there’s been more time for complications to show up. It’s not a judgment. It’s just how they think about long-term risk.
But here’s the thing: that’s not the full story.
I’ve worked with people who were diagnosed as teenagers and still got solid, affordable coverage—because they stayed on top of their health. I’ve also seen folks diagnosed later in life with other issues struggle more. So don’t let the number throw you. It’s just one factor.
What really matters is what you’re doing with the condition right now. How are you managing it? Are you checking in with your doctor, eating well, staying active? That’s what starts to change the conversation.
Type of Diabetes
The type of diabetes you have makes a difference in how insurers approach things. Most of the time, type 2 is seen as more manageable—especially if you’re controlling it through diet and exercise. That can lead to better rates, plain and simple.
Type 1, on the other hand, is usually more complex. It’s a lifelong condition, and that brings more attention from insurers. But again, that doesn’t mean the door is closed. I’ve seen plenty of people with type 1 secure fair policies just by showing that they’re in control—steady A1C, regular checkups, following their treatment plan.
Gestational diabetes? That one’s usually temporary, so most insurers won’t treat it the same way. If you’re applying shortly after pregnancy and everything’s back to normal, it’s usually a smooth process.
How Severe It Is (and Whether You’ve Had Complications)
This is where numbers like your A1C come into play. That test gives a snapshot of how well your blood sugar’s been managed over a few months. A lower, stable A1C? That tells them you’re doing the work. That alone can move you into a better category.
But it’s not just about one lab result. If you’ve had complications—like nerve issues, eyesight changes, or circulation problems—they’ll want to know more. Not to disqualify you, but to understand where things stand. What matters most is: are those complications being treated? Are you working with your doctor? Are you taking action?
You don’t need perfect health. You just need to show that you’re engaged in your care.
How You Manage It Day to Day
Honestly, this part speaks the loudest. Insurers want to see that you’re taking diabetes seriously—not because they’re judging, but because they know that small, steady efforts make a huge difference in long-term outcomes.
Do you take your meds? Do you move your body a few times a week? Are you eating in a way that supports your blood sugar? These things matter. They’re not just good for your health—they’re what help keep your rates lower.
If you’ve been keeping records—A1C history, medication logs, doctor visits—bring them to the table. That kind of consistency shows commitment. It makes your case stronger.
Finding the Right Life Insurance When You’re Living with Diabetes
If you’ve been living with diabetes and you’re looking into life insurance, I know it can feel like the options are limited. But I promise you—they aren’t. You’ve got choices. Just like anyone else. The key is figuring out what kind of policy fits your life, your goals, and your comfort zone.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Some people want something short and simple. Others are thinking long-term. It really depends on what you want your coverage to do for you—and for the people you love.
Let’s walk through it!
1. Term Life Insurance
This is probably the most common choice—and with good reason. Term life is simple. You pick a length—10, 20, 30 years—and if something happens to you during that time, your loved ones get a payout. That’s it.
It doesn’t come with a lot of extras, and because of that, it usually costs less. If your diabetes is under control and you’re not dealing with a lot of other health issues, term life can be very affordable. Especially if you just want to make sure your family’s covered while you’re still paying off a house or raising kids.
Some companies also offer what’s called “return of premium.” That just means if you outlive the policy, you can get your money back. Not everyone goes for it, but it’s good to know it’s an option.
2. Whole Life Insurance
Whole life is a bit different. It’s there for your whole life—as long as you keep paying the premiums. And it slowly builds cash value you can tap into later if you need to. Some people like that. It feels more permanent and predictable.
That said, it’s not cheap. And if you’ve had diabetes for a long time or you’ve had complications, the premiums can get steep. But if you’re looking for something long-term and steady, and you like the idea of building value along the way, it might be worth considering.
3. Universal Life Insurance
Universal life is like a flexible version of whole life. You still get lifelong coverage, and it still builds value—but you can tweak things a bit as your life changes. If you want to pay more one year and less the next, you can. If you need to adjust your coverage amount down the road, there’s room to do that too.
But here’s the tradeoff: if the policy’s cash value drops too low and you’re not keeping an eye on it, it could lapse. So it takes a little more attention to keep it going strong. Some folks love that flexibility. Others find it too hands-on. Depends on your style.
Life Insurance Riders That Can Make a Real Difference If You’re Living with Diabetes
When we talk about life insurance, it’s easy to focus just on the basics—how much coverage, how long it lasts, what it costs. But one of the most overlooked (and most helpful) parts of a policy? The riders.
Riders are like add-ons. They let you tweak your coverage to better match your life—especially if you’re managing something like diabetes. And the truth is, these options aren’t just technical extras. For many people, they become the real lifelines when life throws a curveball.
Let’s discuss a few riders that I often recommend to diabetics—not because they’re nice-to-have, but because they can offer meaningful support when it’s needed most.
Accelerated Death Benefit Rider
This one’s hard to think about, but really important. If you’re ever diagnosed with a terminal illness, this rider gives you access to a portion of your policy’s death benefit while you’re still alive.
For someone with diabetes—especially if you’re at risk for serious complications down the line—this can help cover things like medical bills, home care, or just making sure your family’s not burdened. It’s not just about finances. It’s about giving you some control and peace of mind in a very tough moment.
Critical Illness Rider
Let’s say you develop a serious condition—something like kidney failure, a stroke, or heart disease. This rider pays out a lump sum if that happens. Now, for someone managing diabetes, this is especially relevant. Those are the kinds of conditions that are statistically more common. With this rider in place, you could have access to funds for treatment, recovery time, or just staying afloat financially while you focus on getting better.
Waiver of Premium Rider
Imagine you get too sick to work for a while. Maybe it’s temporary. Maybe it’s longer term. With this rider, your life insurance premiums are paused during that time—without your policy being canceled. That’s a huge relief. Because when you’re managing diabetes, there might be unpredictable health stretches. This rider helps make sure your coverage stays intact—even if your income doesn’t.
For More Flexibility Down the Road…
Sometimes the biggest worry is not what’s happening now, but what could happen later. These next two riders are more about giving your future self some options—especially if your health changes.
Guaranteed Insurability Rider: Add Coverage Without a New Exam
Let’s say you want more coverage later in life—maybe when you get married, have a child, or just realize your financial needs have changed. This rider lets you increase your coverage without taking another medical exam.
For diabetics, that’s a game-changer. Because the truth is, reapplying later might mean higher premiums or even a denial. This rider locks in the option to grow your coverage without having to reprove your health.
Term Conversion Rider: Upgrade Without the Hassle
If you start with a term policy, this rider lets you convert it into a permanent one—like whole life—before your term ends. No medical questions. No exams.
Why does that matter? Well, if your health changes (which it might), qualifying for a new permanent policy could be tough. This rider gives you a quiet exit ramp into long-term coverage—without jumping through new hoops.
The Cost of Life Insurance When You’re Living with Diabetes
If you’re managing diabetes and thinking about life insurance, you’re probably wondering how much it’s actually going to cost. And that’s a fair question. I’ll be straight with you: yes, diabetes can affect your premium—but it doesn’t mean affordable coverage is off the table.
Life insurance companies look at a lot of different factors when setting rates. And while diabetes is something they factor in, it’s just one part of your bigger health picture.
How Much More Might You Pay?
On average, people with diabetes can expect to pay about 2 to 4 times more than someone without the condition. That might sound like a lot at first glance, but let’s break it down with something concrete.
Let’s say you’re a 30-year-old male with well-controlled Type 2 diabetes. You might pay something in the ballpark of $45 to $50 per month for a 20-year term life policy. Now, if your diabetes isn’t as well managed—or you’ve had some complications—that number could go up to $58 or more for the same type of coverage.
It’s not about punishing you for having a condition. It’s about how the insurer measures long-term risk—and how you manage your health plays a huge role in shaping that.
The Role of Health Classifications
When you apply for life insurance, companies place you into a “health class.” It’s their way of organizing risk. Most folks fall into categories like Standard or Substandard. The better your overall health and diabetes management, the more likely you are to land in a Standard class—which comes with better monthly rates.
But if your diabetes is harder to control—or there are other health issues in the mix—you might be placed in a Substandard class. That’s not the end of the road. It just means premiums might be a little higher. There are still insurers out there who work specifically with folks managing chronic conditions. The key is matching you with the right one.
What Can Help You Get a Better Rate?
This is where your daily efforts really start to matter. If your A1C is stable, your doctor visits are consistent, and you’re taking good care of your overall health—those things don’t go unnoticed. Insurers love seeing a pattern of control and consistency. I’ve seen clients with diabetes qualify for rates not far off from people without the condition, just by showing strong, steady health records.
Things like:
- Keeping your blood sugar under control
- Staying on top of medication or insulin
- Not smoking
- Keeping a healthy weight
- Following up on routine screenings and labs
They may seem small in the moment—but they add up. And they tell your story better than any label ever could.
I know it can feel a little intimidating—especially if you’ve already been told by one provider that your options are limited. But every insurer evaluates things differently. What one company sees as a red flag, another might view as completely manageable.
The key is this: don’t let the idea of higher premiums stop you from looking. Let’s explore your options, honestly and patiently. Your condition doesn’t disqualify you from planning for the people you love. In fact, the steps you’re already taking to manage your diabetes? That’s exactly what makes you someone worth covering.
How to Make Life Insurance More Affordable When You’re Living with Diabetes
If you’ve got diabetes, it’s possible to find a policy that makes sense for you. It might take a little more effort, and maybe a bit more patience, but there are real steps you can take to get solid coverage without overpaying.
1. Don’t Stop at One Quote
Different insurance companies look at diabetes differently. One might see your numbers and quote you a high rate. Another might look at the exact same information and be much more reasonable. That’s why it helps to compare. Get quotes from a few different places. Some companies actually specialize in helping people with diabetes—and their pricing often reflects that. You don’t need a dozen quotes, but three or four can really help you see where you stand. Even if the first offer feels too high, don’t assume they all will.
2. Show That You’re Taking Care of Yourself
This one matters more than people realize. Insurance companies don’t expect perfect health—but they do want to see that you’re managing your condition. If your A1C has been stable, if you’re seeing your doctor regularly, taking your meds, staying active, not smoking—that paints a very different picture than someone who isn’t paying attention to their health. And insurers notice. I’ve seen plenty of clients lower their rates just by showing solid health records over time. Even if your condition isn’t perfect, the effort goes a long way.
3. Work With Someone Who Knows the Terrain
If this process feels like a maze, you’re not wrong. That’s why I always suggest working with a broker who understands how to place diabetic clients. Not every insurance agent knows how to handle high-risk applications. But the ones who do? They know which companies are more lenient, which underwriters look at A1C differently, and where to go for better rates. They’ve walked this path before. It can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
4. Ask About Wellness-Reward Policies
Some insurance companies are starting to do something new—and honestly, it’s a step in the right direction. They’re offering policies that reward you for healthy habits. One example is John Hancock’s Aspire program, which is made specifically for people with diabetes. If you track your steps, log meals, stay up to date with appointments—you can earn up to 25% off your premium. If you’re already living this lifestyle, it just makes sense to get rewarded for it.
FAQs
What happens if I’m diagnosed with diabetes after buying life insurance?
If you’re diagnosed after your policy is in place, don’t worry—your coverage stays intact. Your rates won’t go up, and your insurer can’t cancel your policy. As long as you were honest when applying, your beneficiaries will still receive the payout. The only exception is if something happens within the first two years; that’s called the contestability period, and the insurer may review your original application for accuracy.
Why is life insurance more expensive for people with diabetes?
Life insurance costs more with diabetes because insurers see it as a higher risk. Since diabetes can shorten life expectancy, there’s a greater chance the company will need to pay out the policy. That risk gets priced into your premiums. But if your condition is well-managed, and you apply with the right company, you can still find fair rates that reflect your current health—not just the diagnosis.
Which Type of Life Insurance Suits Young Adults with Diabetes?
If your diabetes is well-managed, you have good options. Term life is usually the most affordable—it’s simple and protects you for a set time. If you want something permanent that builds value, whole or universal life might be better long-term. You’re not limited just because you have diabetes—especially if your A1C and health checkups are solid.
Which Carriers Offer the Best Rates for Diabetics?
Some companies handle diabetic applications better than others. Legal & General, John Hancock (with Aspire), Mutual of Omaha, Nationwide, and AIG are all strong picks. They’re used to reviewing diabetic profiles and often reward people who are managing their health well. A broker can help match you with the right one for your needs.
How Many Diabetics Apply for Life Insurance Each Year?
While exact numbers aren’t public, millions of people with diabetes apply for life insurance each year. With 38 million diabetics in the U.S. alone, insurers have built policies and guidelines specifically for this group. You’re not alone—and with proper care and support, getting approved is very possible.
