Life Insurance and Heart Conditions

Securing life insurance when you have a heart condition can be difficult, but it is possible.

In this guide, we’ll provide the information and advice you need to understand the options available to you and get the protection you require.

Can I get Life Insurance if I have a heart condition?

Yes, it’s possible to get life insurance even if you have a heart condition. Depending on your circumstances, life insurers offer different levels of cover and premiums depending on the complexity and severity of your condition. When applying for cover, you may need to provide more detailed information such as medical records, recent test results and lifestyle factors.

Heart conditions we can help you with?

If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition, don’t worry – we can still help you get life insurance. Most insurers will require you to wait at least a year after diagnosis and treatment before processing your application, but we have experience setting up coverage for clients with a variety of heart conditions. These include atrial:

  • Atrial fibrillation
  • Angina
  • Mitral heart valve disorders
  • Heart attack
  • Hypertension
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Pacemakers
  • Stent fittings

Let us help you find the coverage you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Cost of Life Insurance with Heart Conditions

Many people are concerned about the affordability of life insurance coverage with a history of heart conditions. It’s important to note that all insurers consider a variety of factors when underwriting a policy, including age, overall health and family history. For those with heart conditions, applicants can often get better pricing by working with an experienced agent who understands this type of coverage.

What will the insurers will ask for?

When looking into life insurance with a heart condition, you should be prepared to discuss how it affects your day-to-day life and what diagnosis & treatment you’ve had in the past or currently receiving. The life insurance company will require this information to evaluate the risk associated with your heart condition. They may also request access to your medical records for your heart condition.

The importance of disclosing your heart conditions

It’s important to be as honest and transparent as possible about any pre-existing conditions you have, especially when it comes to heart conditions. Always remember that this information will help the insurance company make an informed decision

Life insurance with Heart Conditions Outcomes

When applying for life insurance with a history of heart conditions, the insurance company will assess your health history, age, and other relevant factors to determine your risk level. Based on this assessment, they will give one of three decisions:

 

Standard: This means that the insurer is able to set your premiums at the same rate as the market average. This outcome is reserved for lower risk conditions that pose little to no threat to your life.

 

Referred: This occurs when the insurer wants a human underwriter to review your application. They may require further information from your medical records before making a decision.

 

Rated: This means the insurer are happy to offer you cover but based on the medical disclosure there is an increase in premiums due to the added risk of your medical condition.

If your application is declined.

Receiving a decline for a life insurance policy can be discouraging, but it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. It’s important to remember that you may still be insurable, even if one provider has refused you. You can try looking for another insurer who is willing to take on your risk, and an expert insurance broker can assist you in finding the best option. Providing honest and transparent information can help the insurance company make an informed decision about your coverage, potentially leading to better rates and coverage for you. Don’t give up hope, as there are still options available to you.

Life Insurance with Heart Conditions: FAQ’s

Can I get life insurance after having stents?

If you have had stents put in, you can still get life insurance at a reasonable rate. The cost of premiums will be determined by factors such as the severity of your condition, your age at the time of diagnosis, and the number of vessels affected. Typically, most insurance providers will consider individuals who have had up to three vessels impacted.

Can I get life insurance if I smoke and have a heart condition?

If you smoke and have a heart condition, you can still get life insurance, but it may come with higher premiums. Smoking is a known risk factor for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke, so insurers will take this into account when assessing your risk. However, quitting smoking can greatly improve your health and reduce your risk of heart problems. If you quit smoking and remain nicotine-free for 12 months, insurers may consider you a non-smoker and offer lower premiums.

Do I have to tell my life insurance provider if I have a heart attack?

It is important to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions, including a history of heart conditions, to your life insurance provider when applying for coverage. However, if you experience a heart attack or any other medical condition after obtaining coverage, you do not need to inform your insurer unless you are making a claim related to that condition. It is always best to be transparent with your insurer to ensure that you have the appropriate coverage for your needs.

Does Life insurance cover death by heart attack?

If you have life insurance, you can rest assured that your loved ones will receive financial support in the event of your death by heart attack. However, it's important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your policy, as some insurers may have exclusions or limitations. It's always best to be fully informed about your coverage to ensure that your family is protected.

Does Life insurance cover death by heart attack?

If you have life insurance, you can rest assured that your loved ones will receive financial support in the event of your death by heart attack. However, it's important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your policy, as some insurers may have exclusions or limitations. It's always best to be fully informed about your coverage to ensure that your family is protected.

Life insurance and Heart condition: Summary

Having a heart condition does not necessarily mean that you cannot obtain life insurance at a reasonable price. However, being a smoker or having another medical condition such as diabetes may limit your options or increase your premiums. Typically, insurance companies will offer coverage after one year of being diagnosed with a heart condition to assess its progression. The number of affected vessels will also be taken into consideration, with most insurers willing to offer coverage if three or fewer vessels are affected.