DIABETES COVERAGE GUIDE — 2026

Diabetes Doesn't Disqualify You. Your Family Still Needs Protection.

Over 37 million Americans have diabetes — and millions of them have life insurance. The key is knowing which carriers are most favorable for your specific situation. That's exactly what we do.

37M+
Americans with diabetes
48+
carriers we compare for you
Yes
Type 1 & Type 2 can be approved
$0
cost to compare your options

Diabetes Doesn't Disqualify You

We know which carriers approve diabetics — let us find your best rate.

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Your Options Based on Your Diabetes Type

Every carrier evaluates diabetes differently. Here's what to expect based on your situation:

Type 2 Diabetes (Well-Controlled)

Typical rating: Standard to Preferred ratesAvailable from: Most carriers

If your A1C is under 7.0, you're on oral medication only, and have no complications, many carriers will offer you standard or even preferred rates. This is the most common scenario.

Type 2 Diabetes (Moderate Control)

Typical rating: Standard to Table-ratedAvailable from: Many carriers

A1C between 7.0-8.5, on insulin, or with mild complications. You'll still qualify with many carriers, though rates will be higher. An independent broker is crucial here to find the most lenient carrier.

Type 1 Diabetes

Typical rating: Table-rated to DeclineAvailable from: Select carriers

Type 1 is harder to insure, but not impossible. Several carriers specialize in Type 1 coverage. Key factors: age at diagnosis, A1C level, and absence of complications. We know which carriers are most favorable.

Diabetes with Complications

Typical rating: Table-rated to Guaranteed IssueAvailable from: Specialized carriers

Neuropathy, retinopathy, or cardiovascular complications make traditional underwriting difficult. Guaranteed issue policies (no health questions) are available, or we can find carriers that are more lenient with specific complications.

What Insurance Carriers Look At

A1C Level

Critical

Under 7.0 is ideal. 7.0-8.0 is still insurable. Above 8.0 limits options.

Diabetes Type

High

Type 2 is easier to insure than Type 1. Gestational diabetes usually has no impact.

Medications

High

Oral medications are preferred. Insulin use may increase rates but doesn't disqualify.

Complications

Critical

Neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, or cardiovascular issues significantly impact rates.

Age at Diagnosis

Moderate

Later diagnosis (after 40) is viewed more favorably than early-onset diabetes.

Overall Health

High

BMI, blood pressure, cholesterol, and other health markers are also considered.

Why an Independent Broker Is Essential for Diabetics

When you apply directly to a carrier and get declined, that decline goes on your record and makes future applications harder. An independent broker pre-screens your health profile against 48++ carriers to find the best match BEFORE you apply.

No Blind Applications

We know which carriers are most lenient for your specific diabetes profile. No guessing, no unnecessary declines on your record.

Same Price, Better Outcome

Premiums are identical whether you buy direct or through us. But we find the carrier that gives you the best rating — saving you hundreds per year.

Advocate in Your Corner

If a carrier questions your diabetes, we advocate on your behalf with medical records and context. Going direct, you're on your own.

Life Insurance for Diabetics FAQ

Can diabetics get life insurance?

Yes. Millions of diabetics have life insurance. The key factors are your diabetes type, A1C level, medications, and whether you have complications. Well-controlled Type 2 diabetics often qualify for standard rates. Even Type 1 diabetics and those with complications have options.

How much more does life insurance cost for diabetics?

It depends on your specific situation. Well-controlled Type 2 diabetics may pay only 20-50% more than someone without diabetes. Poorly controlled diabetes or Type 1 may result in rates 100-200% higher. An independent broker can find the carrier with the best rate for your exact health profile.

What A1C level do I need for life insurance?

Most carriers prefer an A1C under 7.0 for the best rates. An A1C of 7.0-8.0 is still insurable with many carriers at higher rates. Above 8.0, options become more limited but still exist. Some carriers look at your A1C trend (improving vs. worsening) rather than just the current number.

Do I need to disclose my diabetes on a life insurance application?

Yes, always. Failing to disclose a known medical condition is fraud and can result in your policy being voided and claims denied. The good news is that with 48+ carriers, we can find one that views your diabetes favorably.

What if I've been declined for life insurance because of diabetes?

A decline from one carrier doesn't mean you can't get coverage. Different carriers have vastly different underwriting guidelines for diabetes. We regularly help people who've been declined elsewhere find coverage at reasonable rates with a different carrier.

Is there no-exam life insurance for diabetics?

Yes. Several carriers offer simplified issue (limited health questions) and guaranteed issue (no health questions) policies for diabetics. These policies have higher premiums and lower coverage limits, but they're available regardless of your diabetes status.

Don't Let Diabetes Stop You from Protecting Your Family

We specialize in finding coverage for diabetics. Tell us about your situation and we'll find the best carrier for you — free.

Your Family Deserves This Peace of Mind

60 seconds. We'll match you with carriers that welcome diabetics.

7 people in US are exploring options right now
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What brings you here today?

256-bit SSL Encrypted • Your info is never sold
100% Free • No Obligation • No Spam
Same price as going direct — but we compare 48+ carriers for you

By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted by a licensed insurance advisor via phone, email, or text message. Standard messaging rates may apply. You may opt out at any time. Your information is protected and never sold or shared with third parties. See our Privacy Policy.

Important Disclosure

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, legal, or insurance advice. Individual circumstances vary. Consult with a licensed insurance professional or financial advisor before making any insurance or financial decisions. Policy features, benefits, and availability may vary by state and carrier.

Sources & References

  1. NAIC Consumer Guide to Life Insurance(Accessed Feb 2025)
  2. 2024 Insurance Barometer Study — LIMRA & Life Happens(Accessed Feb 2025)
  3. IRS Publication 525 — Taxable and Nontaxable Income(Accessed Feb 2025)

All sources cited are publicly available and were verified at the time of publication. Evolve Legacy Group is committed to providing accurate, up-to-date information. See our Editorial Standards for more information.