Tuberous Sclerosis Final Expense Insurance: Your Coverage Options in 2026

Traditional Coverage Is Usually Off the Table

Let’s be straightforward. Tuberous sclerosis is a genetic condition that causes noncancerous tumors to grow in the brain, kidneys, heart, lungs, and skin. Because of the unpredictable nature of the condition and the potential for serious complications, most traditional life insurance carriers will decline an application. Simplified issue products, which ask a limited set of health questions, also tend to screen out applicants with this diagnosis.

If you have already been turned down for life insurance because of tuberous sclerosis, that experience is unfortunately common. It does not mean you are uninsurable. It means you were applying for the wrong type of product. There is a category of coverage built specifically for situations like yours.

How Guaranteed Issue Final Expense Insurance Works

Guaranteed issue life insurance exists for people who cannot qualify for medically underwritten policies. The word “guaranteed” is the key. If you fall within the eligible age range (typically 45 to 85), you are approved. Period.

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

• There are no health questions on the application
• There is no medical exam or blood work required
• Acceptance is automatic within the age range
• The entire application process takes just minutes
• Coverage begins immediately upon approval

This product type is designed for final expenses. It is not meant to replace decades of income. It is built to cover funeral costs, medical bills, and small debts so your family is not left with a financial burden during an already difficult time.

What to Expect from Coverage and Cost

Guaranteed issue policies typically offer between $5,000 and $25,000 in coverage, with some carriers offering up to $50,000. You can sometimes combine policies from different carriers if you need a higher total benefit.

Every guaranteed issue policy includes what is called a graded benefit period, usually lasting two to three years. During that window, if death occurs from natural causes, the policy pays back all premiums you have paid plus interest (typically around 10%) rather than the full death benefit. After the graded period ends, the full face amount is payable. One important detail is that accidental death is usually covered at the full benefit amount from day one.

The honest reality about cost is that guaranteed issue coverage is more expensive per dollar of coverage than a traditional policy. A $15,000 policy might cost between $70 and $100 per month depending on your age. 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 Working with an Independent Agency Matters

Not all guaranteed issue policies are created equal. Carriers differ in their graded benefit periods, maximum face amounts, premium structures, and age eligibility windows. Some carriers offer a two year graded period while others require three years. Some cap coverage at $15,000 while others go up to $50,000. These differences matter, and you deserve to see all the options side by side.

That is exactly what we do at Insurance By Heroes. 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. We built this agency on the belief that protecting families is an act of duty, not just a transaction. We bring that same commitment to every person we work with, regardless of background or health history.

Because we are an independent agency, we are not locked into one carrier. We shop your situation across many carriers to find the guaranteed issue policy that offers you the best combination of coverage, cost, and benefit structure. That comparison work is free to you and can save you real money over the life of your policy.

Making the Right Decision for Your Family

If you are considering guaranteed issue final expense insurance, there are a few things worth thinking through.

Apply sooner rather than later. Age directly affects your premium, and health situations can change. The coverage available to you today may be more affordable than what you would find a year from now.

Think about what your family would need. The average funeral in the United States costs between $7,000 and $12,000. Add in any outstanding medical bills or small debts, and you can arrive at a realistic coverage target.

Be realistic about what guaranteed issue coverage is and is not. It will not replace your income for years to come. It will cover final expenses and give your family breathing room during a painful time. That is a meaningful gift.

Some people hesitate because the monthly premium feels high. That is a fair concern. But compare that cost to the alternative of leaving your family responsible for thousands of dollars in final expenses with no safety net at all. For many families, the peace of mind is well worth it.

Getting a quote costs nothing and takes only a few minutes. You can see exactly what your options look like without any obligation.

FAQ

Can I get life insurance if I have tuberous sclerosis?

Yes. While traditional and simplified issue policies will likely decline your application, guaranteed issue final expense insurance requires no health questions and no medical exam. If you are within the eligible age range, you are approved.

How much does guaranteed issue life insurance cost?

Premiums depend on your age and the amount of coverage you choose. As a general example, a $15,000 policy might run between $70 and $100 per month. Your premiums are locked in once approved and will not increase.

What is a graded benefit period?

A graded benefit period is typically the first two to three years of a guaranteed issue policy. During this time, if death occurs from natural causes, the policy returns all premiums paid plus interest rather than paying the full death benefit. After this period, the full benefit applies. Accidental death is usually covered in full from the start.

How much coverage can I get with guaranteed issue?

Most guaranteed issue policies offer between $5,000 and $25,000, though some carriers go up to $50,000. You may also be able to combine policies from multiple carriers to reach a higher total coverage amount. An independent agent can help you explore all available options.