Getting Life Insurance with High Blood Pressure

Understanding the Impact of High Blood Pressure on Life Insurance 

High blood pressure, or hypertension, can be a significant concern when applying for life insurance. Insurers consider it a risk factor, which may lead to higher premiums. However, many people with high blood pressure obtain life insurance by understanding the underwriting process and managing their health effectively.

Strategies to Secure Life Insurance

To improve your chances of obtaining affordable life insurance, consider the following strategies:

 

• Manage Your Health: Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and following your healthcare provider’s advice to control your blood pressure levels.
• Regular Medical Check-Ups: Regular check-ups can provide updated health information to insurers, showing your commitment to managing your condition.
• Work with an Insurance Broker: A broker can help you find insurers that offer favorable terms for individuals with high blood pressure and guide you through the process. Many times, if an applicant has this or other issues, we will "shop" their case to several carriers informally. In other words, we ask, "What do you think," without submitting a formal application. That way the applicant doesn't risk getting declined, which can further hurt their chances with approval from another carrier. We would rather get it right the first time. 
• Compare Policies: Shop around and compare different life insurance policies to find one that meets your needs and budget, keeping in mind that premiums can vary significantly. Again, an experienced broker will know what to do. 
• General Guidelines: There are generally three main health categories in life insurance underwriting. They are Super-Preferred, Preferred, and Standard. There are other levels I won't get into now. In order to qualify at Super-Preferred, one must have currently well controlled b/p with or without treatment, with the average readings in the past two years not greater than 135/85. For Preferred, well controlled with or without treatment, with the average readings in the past two years not greater than 140/90. For Standard, currently well controlled with or without treatment, with the average readings in the past two years not greater than 145/90.Now, these are general guidelines and there is a multitude of other factors involved. 

Understanding Policy Types

There are different types of life insurance policies to consider:

• Term Life Insurance: Provides coverage for a specific time period and generally has lower premiums, making it a popular choice for those with high blood pressure.

• Whole Life Insurance: Offers lifelong coverage and includes a cash value component, but tends to be more expensive.

 

Final Thoughts

While obtaining life insurance with high blood pressure may seem challenging, it is achievable with the right approach. By managing your health, exploring options, and working with professionals, you can secure a policy that offers financial protection for your loved ones. Remember, life insurance is a crucial component of financial planning and peace of mind.