Life Insurance Quotes for Diabetics (Updated for 2025)

Living with diabetes presents unique challenges, and navigating the world of life insurance might feel like one more hurdle. You might wonder if affordable coverage is even possible, or perhaps you’ve faced difficulties in the past. The good news is that obtaining competitive life insurance quotes for diabetics is absolutely achievable in 2025, especially when you have the right guidance.

Many factors influence life insurance eligibility and pricing, and diabetes is certainly one underwriters look at closely. However, a diagnosis doesn’t automatically mean exorbitant rates or outright denial. Insurance companies have become more sophisticated in assessing risk, and well-managed diabetes is often viewed much more favorably than it once was.

This is where working with an independent agency like Insurance By Heroes makes a significant difference. Founded by a former first responder and military spouse, and staffed by professionals who understand the unique needs and values of service-oriented individuals and families, we aren’t tied to a single insurance provider. We partner with dozens of top-rated carriers across the nation. This independence allows us to shop the market extensively on your behalf, comparing different underwriting guidelines and pricing structures to find the policy that truly fits your specific health profile, needs, and budget. We understand that not every company or policy is right for every person, especially when managing a condition like diabetes.

This guide will walk you through the essential information you need to understand how life insurance works for diabetics, what insurers look for, the types of policies available, and how you can improve your chances of securing the best possible life insurance quotes for diabetics.

Understanding How Insurers View Diabetes

Life insurance companies are in the business of assessing risk. When you apply for a policy, underwriters evaluate various factors to predict life expectancy and determine the likelihood of a claim being paid out during the policy term. For individuals with diabetes, insurers focus on several key aspects related to the condition:

• Type of Diabetes: Insurers differentiate between Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes. Type 2, particularly if diagnosed later in life and well-controlled, often receives more favorable consideration than Type 1, which typically develops earlier and requires insulin. Gestational diabetes usually doesn’t impact rates long-term unless it develops into Type 2 later.
• Age at Diagnosis: Generally, the younger someone was when diagnosed, the higher the perceived long-term risk, especially for Type 1 diabetes.
• Level of Control: This is arguably the most critical factor. Insurers want to see evidence that your diabetes is well-managed. Key indicators include:
  • A1c Levels: Your Hemoglobin A1c test results provide a picture of your average blood sugar control over the past 2-3 months. Lower, stable A1c levels (ideally below 7.0%, though acceptable ranges vary by insurer) significantly improve your chances of better rates.
  • Blood Glucose Readings: Consistent monitoring and readings within target ranges demonstrate effective daily management.
  • Treatment Plan Adherence: Following your doctor’s recommendations regarding medication (oral or insulin), diet, exercise, and regular check-ups is crucial.
• Presence of Complications: Insurers assess whether diabetes has led to other health issues, such as:
  • Neuropathy (nerve damage)
  • Nephropathy (kidney disease)
  • Retinopathy (eye damage)
  • Cardiovascular Disease (heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure)
  • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

  The absence of complications is a major positive factor.

• Other Health Factors: Underwriters look at your overall health picture, including:
  • Weight and Body Mass Index (BMI)
  • Blood pressure levels
  • Cholesterol levels
  • Smoking status (smokers always face much higher rates, and this is compounded by diabetes)
  • Other existing medical conditions
• Lifestyle: A healthy diet, regular exercise routine, and avoidance of tobacco contribute positively to your risk assessment.

Based on this comprehensive review, insurers assign applicants to a health rating class, which directly impacts the premium. These classes typically range from Preferred Plus (the best rates for the healthiest individuals) down through Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard, and then into Substandard or Table Ratings for higher risks. Diabetics can potentially qualify for Standard or even Standard Plus rates if their condition is exceptionally well-controlled, diagnosed later in life (Type 2), and they have no complications and are otherwise healthy. More commonly, well-controlled diabetics might receive a Table Rating (e.g., Table B, C, D, etc.), which means Standard rates plus an additional percentage (typically 25% per table). Even with a table rating, coverage is often more affordable than people assume.

It’s vital to remember that each insurance carrier has its own specific underwriting guidelines and “appetite” for risk. One company might automatically assign a certain table rating based on A1c, while another might look more holistically or be more lenient towards well-managed Type 2 diabetes. This is precisely why working with an independent agency like Insurance By Heroes is so advantageous. We know the nuances of different carriers and can direct your application towards those most likely to offer favorable life insurance quotes for diabetics based on your unique health profile.

Types of Life Insurance Available for Diabetics

Individuals with diabetes generally have access to the same types of life insurance policies as those without the condition, although qualification criteria and pricing will differ. Here are the main options:

Term Life Insurance

Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific period, such as 10, 15, 20, or 30 years. If the insured person passes away during the term, the policy pays out a death benefit to the beneficiaries. If the insured outlives the term, the coverage expires (though some policies offer renewal or conversion options). Term life is typically the most affordable type of life insurance, offering the largest death benefit for the lowest premium.

Diabetics can absolutely qualify for term life insurance. The key is demonstrating good control and overall health. Well-controlled diabetics without complications might secure standard or slightly rated policies. Those with less optimal control or some complications might receive higher table ratings or face denial from some carriers. Because underwriting varies so much, letting Insurance By Heroes shop across multiple carriers is essential to find the best available term life quotes for your situation.

Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance provides lifelong coverage as long as premiums are paid. It includes a cash value component that grows over time on a tax-deferred basis, which you can borrow against or surrender for cash (though this impacts the death benefit). Premiums are significantly higher than term life for the same death benefit amount because the coverage is permanent and includes the cash value element.

Whole life can be a good option for diabetics seeking permanent protection for final expenses, estate planning, or leaving a legacy. Qualification criteria are similar to term life, focusing on control and complications. Again, the cost will depend heavily on your specific health status and the underwriting guidelines of the chosen insurer. Insurance By Heroes can help you compare whole life options from various carriers who work with diabetic applicants.

Guaranteed Issue (GI) Life Insurance

Guaranteed issue life insurance policies ask no health questions and do not require a medical exam. Approval is virtually guaranteed for applicants within a specific age range (often 50-85). However, this accessibility comes with significant trade-offs:

• Lower Coverage Amounts: Death benefits are typically small, often capped at $25,000 or $50,000.
• Higher Premiums: Per dollar of coverage, GI policies are much more expensive than fully underwritten policies.
• Graded Death Benefit: Most GI policies have a waiting period, usually two years. If death occurs from natural causes during this period, the beneficiaries typically receive only a return of the premiums paid, plus some interest, rather than the full death benefit. Accidental death is usually covered from day one.

GI life insurance is generally considered a last resort for individuals with severe health conditions, including poorly controlled diabetes with significant complications, who cannot qualify for other types of coverage. While it provides some protection, Insurance By Heroes always strives to find medically underwritten options first, as they usually offer better value. We only recommend GI when other avenues have been exhausted, ensuring you understand the limitations.

Simplified Issue Life Insurance

Simplified issue policies involve answering some health questions but do not require a full medical exam. Approval can be much faster than fully underwritten policies. Premiums are typically higher than fully underwritten term or whole life but lower than guaranteed issue. Coverage amounts are usually moderate, often up to $500,000, but sometimes lower.

This can be an option for some diabetics, particularly if they prefer to avoid a medical exam, although the health questions will still inquire about diabetes and its management. The rates may not be as competitive as a fully underwritten policy if you are in good control. An agent at Insurance By Heroes can help you weigh the pros and cons of simplified issue versus fully underwritten policies based on quotes from different carriers.

How Your Diabetes Management Directly Impacts Quotes

The single most influential factor within your control when seeking life insurance quotes for diabetics is the management of your condition. Insurers reward proactive health management.

A1c is King

Your A1c level is a primary metric underwriters use. While specific cutoffs vary by company:

• A1c below 7.0%: Often viewed very favorably, potentially opening doors to Standard or even better rates if other health factors are excellent.
• A1c between 7.0% and 8.0%: Generally acceptable, likely leading to Standard or low Table Ratings, assuming no major complications.
• A1c between 8.0% and 9.0%: May still be insurable, but likely at higher Table Ratings. Fewer carrier options may be available.
• A1c above 9.0%: Significantly harder to insure with traditional policies. Simplified issue or guaranteed issue might be the primary options.

Consistency matters too. A stable A1c history is better than one with large fluctuations. Providing documentation of your A1c readings over time can strengthen your application.

Doctor’s Orders and Documentation

Regular visits to your primary care physician and endocrinologist demonstrate responsible health management. Following their prescribed treatment plan – whether it involves diet, exercise, oral medications, or insulin – is crucial. Insurers will likely request an Attending Physician Statement (APS) to verify your diagnosis, treatment history, control levels, and any complications. Well-documented medical records showing consistent care and control work in your favor.

The Impact of Complications

The presence and severity of diabetes-related complications significantly impact underwriting. Conditions like kidney disease (nephropathy), nerve damage (neuropathy), eye problems (retinopathy), or cardiovascular issues often result in higher table ratings or potential declines, depending on the severity and stability. Conversely, being free of complications despite having diabetes for many years is a strong positive factor.

Lifestyle Choices Matter

Beyond direct diabetes management, your overall lifestyle plays a significant role:

• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight (or demonstrating successful weight loss) can improve insulin sensitivity and overall health, viewed positively by insurers. Obesity often leads to less favorable rates.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps with blood sugar control and cardiovascular health.
• Diet: Following a diabetes-friendly diet shows commitment to managing your condition.
• Smoking: Using tobacco dramatically increases risks for diabetics (and everyone) and leads to significantly higher premiums, often smoker rates plus a table rating for diabetes. Quitting smoking for at least 12 months is usually necessary to qualify for non-smoker rates.

Presenting a comprehensive picture of diligent management requires organization and often, expert guidance. An agent at Insurance By Heroes understands what underwriters are looking for. We help you gather the necessary information and present your case in the best possible light to the carriers known to be more understanding of well-managed diabetes. Our experience allows us to anticipate underwriting questions and proactively address potential concerns.

The Process: Getting Life Insurance Quotes for Diabetics

Securing life insurance when you have diabetes involves a few more steps than for someone with no health conditions, but it’s a manageable process, especially with support.

1. Initial Consultation and Needs Analysis: The first step is connecting with an independent agent, like those at Insurance By Heroes. We’ll have a conversation about your health history (be prepared to discuss your diabetes in detail), your financial goals, your budget, and how much coverage you need and for how long. Our team, many with backgrounds in public service, understands the importance of protecting your family’s future and approaches this conversation with empathy and expertise.
2. Information Gathering: You’ll likely need to provide details about your diagnosis, treatment, medications, recent A1c levels, doctor’s information, and any complications. Having recent medical records handy can speed things up.
3. Shopping the Market (The IBH Advantage): This is where working with Insurance By Heroes truly shines. Instead of you applying to multiple companies one by one, we take your information and anonymously pre-screen your profile with dozens of carriers. We leverage our knowledge of carrier underwriting niches to identify those most likely to offer favorable life insurance quotes for diabetics with your specific profile. This saves you time, potential declines hitting your record, and helps find the most competitive offers upfront. We compare not just prices but also policy features and carrier financial strength.
4. Formal Application: Once we identify the best potential carriers, you’ll complete a formal application. Absolute honesty is critical here. Insurers use resources like the Medical Information Bureau (MIB), prescription databases, and motor vehicle records to verify information. Misrepresenting your health can lead to denial or even cancellation of a policy later.
5. Medical Exam (Often Required): For most term and whole life policies (unless it’s simplified or guaranteed issue), a paramedical exam is required. A licensed examiner will typically visit you at home or work to:
   • Record your height and weight.
   • Measure your blood pressure and pulse.
   • Collect blood and urine samples (which will be tested for A1c, glucose levels, kidney function, nicotine, etc.).
   • Ask detailed questions about your medical history.

   It’s wise to schedule the exam for a time when you’re rested, hydrated, and have avoided caffeine, strenuous exercise, and salty foods beforehand.

6. Underwriting Review: The insurance company’s underwriting department reviews your application, medical exam results, potentially your APS (Attending Physician Statement), and other data. This process can take several weeks. They assess all the risk factors discussed earlier.
7. Receiving and Comparing Offers: Once underwriting is complete, the insurer issues their decision: approval at a certain rate class, a request for more information, or a decline. If approved, Insurance By Heroes will present the final offer(s) to you, explaining the details, the premium, and ensuring it aligns with your needs. If multiple offers come back from the carriers we approached, we help you compare them side-by-side.
8. Policy Acceptance and Activation: If you accept an offer, you’ll sign the policy documents and make the initial premium payment to put the coverage in force.

Throughout this process, your Insurance By Heroes agent acts as your advocate, communicating with carriers, clarifying information, and keeping you informed every step of the way.

Why Insurance By Heroes is Your Best Ally

Choosing the right partner to navigate the complexities of obtaining life insurance quotes for diabetics can make all the difference in the outcome and your experience.

Insurance By Heroes stands apart for several key reasons:

• True Independence and Market Access: We are not captive agents bound to one company. Our independence means we work for YOU. We have established relationships with dozens of A-rated insurance carriers across the country. This broad access allows us to genuinely shop the market, comparing underwriting guidelines that vary significantly for diabetics, ensuring you see the most competitive options available for your specific situation. One carrier might rate you Table D, while another might offer Standard – we find that better offer.
• Specialized Expertise: We frequently work with clients managing health conditions like diabetes. We understand the underwriting nuances, know which carriers are historically more favorable, and know how to present your application effectively. We don’t shy away from complex cases.
• Personalized Approach: We take the time to understand your individual needs, health status, and financial goals. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our recommendations are tailored to provide the right type and amount of coverage for your family’s protection.
• Shared Values and Trust: Founded by a former first responder and military spouse, and staffed by professionals with similar backgrounds in public service, we operate with integrity, commitment, and a deep understanding of the desire to protect loved ones. We build relationships based on trust and clear communication.
• Advocacy and Support: From the initial quote comparison through underwriting and beyond, we are your advocates. We handle the legwork, communicate with insurers on your behalf, and strive to make the process as smooth and successful as possible.

Trying to find the best life insurance quotes for diabetics on your own means contacting multiple companies individually, repeating your health history, and trying to decipher differing quotes and underwriting standards. Working with Insurance By Heroes streamlines this entire process and leverages expert knowledge to significantly improve your chances of finding affordable, high-quality coverage.

Actionable Tips for Diabetics Seeking Life Insurance

While working with an expert agent is crucial, there are steps you can take to improve your insurability and potentially lower your premiums:

• Prioritize Diabetes Control: Work closely with your doctor to achieve and maintain the best possible A1c levels and daily blood sugar control.
• Follow Your Treatment Plan: Adhere strictly to medication, diet, and exercise recommendations.
• Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, eat nutritiously, and absolutely avoid smoking or using tobacco products.
• Keep Excellent Records: Maintain organized records of your doctor visits, A1c tests, medications, and any related health information.
• Be Honest and Thorough: Disclose everything accurately on your application. Hiding information can backfire significantly.
• Choose the Right Guide: Partner with an independent insurance agency like Insurance By Heroes that has experience working with diabetics and access to many carriers.
• Don’t Delay: Life insurance generally gets more expensive as you age. Starting the process sooner rather than later can lock in lower rates.
• Don’t Assume the Worst: Many diabetics successfully obtain affordable life insurance. Explore your options before assuming you won’t qualify or that it will be too expensive.

Take Control of Your Family’s Financial Security Today

Living with diabetes requires diligence and management, but it should not prevent you from securing the vital financial protection that life insurance provides for your loved ones. Understanding how insurers view diabetes, the types of policies available, and the importance of control are the first steps.

The most critical step, however, is partnering with an advocate who can navigate the market effectively on your behalf. Getting the right life insurance quotes for diabetics requires comparing offers from multiple carriers, as underwriting guidelines vary widely. An independent agency is uniquely positioned to do this.

Ready to see your options? Don’t navigate the complexities of finding life insurance quotes for diabetics alone. The dedicated team at Insurance By Heroes, founded by professionals with backgrounds in public service and committed to serving those who serve others, is here to help. We understand the importance of protecting your family’s future because we share those values. We will shop the market with dozens of top-rated carriers to find the coverage that fits your unique health situation, needs, and budget. Take the first step towards peace of mind.

Fill out the secure quote form on this page today to get started. It’s free, confidential, and puts our team to work for you, comparing options to find the best life insurance solution for your needs.