Temporal Arteritis and Final Expense Insurance in 2026

Why Traditional Coverage Is Difficult with Temporal Arteritis

Temporal arteritis (also called giant cell arteritis) involves inflammation of the blood vessels, particularly those near the temples. Because it carries risks of serious complications, including vision loss and stroke, most traditional life insurance carriers will either decline or heavily rate applicants with this diagnosis.

If you have already applied for life insurance and been turned down, that experience is frustrating but not unusual. It does not mean you are uninsurable. It means the product was not the right fit for your situation.

The good news is that a specific type of coverage exists for exactly this scenario.

How Guaranteed Issue Final Expense Insurance Works

Guaranteed issue (GI) life insurance is designed for people who cannot qualify for traditional or simplified issue policies. The name says it all. If you meet the age requirement, you are guaranteed acceptance.

Here is what makes it different from other types of life insurance.

• There are no health questions on the application
• There is no medical exam required
• Acceptance is guaranteed regardless of your health history
• It is typically available for adults ages 45 through 85
• The application process takes just minutes

This means your temporal arteritis diagnosis, your medications, your treatment history, none of it factors into the approval decision. You apply, you qualify.

What to Expect from Coverage and Cost

Guaranteed issue policies are built to cover final expenses, not to replace income. Understanding what they offer (and what they do not) helps you make an informed decision.

Coverage amounts generally range from $5,000 to $25,000, with some carriers offering up to $50,000. Many families find that a policy in the $10,000 to $20,000 range covers funeral costs, outstanding medical bills, and other immediate expenses.

The graded benefit period is the most important detail to understand. Most guaranteed issue policies include a two to three year waiting period. If the policyholder passes away from natural causes during that window, the policy returns all premiums paid plus interest (typically around 10%) rather than paying the full death benefit. After the graded period ends, the full benefit amount is paid. Accidental death is usually covered at the full amount from day one.

Cost reality. Guaranteed issue coverage costs more per dollar of benefit than traditional policies. A $15,000 policy might run $70 to $100 per month depending on your age and the carrier. Those premiums are locked in once you are approved, so they will never increase. Yes, it costs more. But it is available to you right now, and that availability has real value.

Why an Independent Agency Matters for Guaranteed Issue

Even among guaranteed issue products, there are meaningful differences between carriers. Graded benefit periods vary. Maximum face amounts differ. Monthly premiums for the same coverage amount can swing significantly from one company to another.

This is where working with an independent agency makes a real difference. At Insurance By Heroes, we compare guaranteed issue options across many carriers to find the best fit for your situation. Our agency was founded by a former first responder and military spouse, and every member of our team comes from a background in public service. That service first mindset drives how we treat every person who reaches out to us, regardless of their background or health history. We believe everyone deserves honest guidance and real options.

When you request a quote through us, we do the comparison work for you and present the strongest options side by side.

Making Your Decision

If you are considering guaranteed issue coverage, here are a few things worth thinking about.

Apply sooner rather than later. Premiums increase with age, and the graded benefit period means your full coverage kicks in faster the earlier you start. Every month you wait is a month further from full protection.

Think about what you want the policy to cover. Funeral and burial costs, remaining medical bills, credit card balances, or simply leaving something behind for your loved ones. Match your coverage amount to those real numbers.

Be realistic about what GI provides. This is not a $500,000 income replacement policy. It is a focused tool that ensures your family is not left with a financial burden during an already difficult time.

Some people hesitate because the monthly cost feels high compared to what healthy applicants pay for traditional coverage. That comparison is understandable but not quite fair. The real comparison is between having this coverage and having nothing at all. For the families we work with, that difference means everything.

FAQ

Can I get life insurance with temporal arteritis?

Yes. Guaranteed issue final expense insurance requires no health questions and no medical exam. Your temporal arteritis diagnosis does not affect your ability to be approved.

How much does guaranteed issue life insurance cost?

Costs vary by age and carrier, but expect to pay roughly $70 to $100 per month for a $15,000 policy. An independent agent can compare rates across many carriers to find your lowest premium.

What happens during the graded benefit period?

If you pass away from natural causes during the first two to three years, your beneficiary receives all premiums paid plus interest (usually around 10%). After that period, the full death benefit is paid. Accidental death is typically covered in full from day one.

How much guaranteed issue coverage can I get?

Most carriers offer between $5,000 and $25,000 in coverage, with some going up to $50,000. You may also be able to combine policies from different carriers to increase your total coverage amount.

Getting a quote is free, takes just a few minutes, and puts real numbers in front of you so you can decide what makes sense for your family. Reach out to our team at Insurance By Heroes and let us find the best guaranteed issue options available to you today.