Published by Term Insurance Brokers — an independent brokerage licensed in 35+ states, representing 30+ top-rated carriers. Updated May 15, 2026.
Quick Answer: Yes, you can get life insurance with type 2 diabetes — often at better rates than expected. Underwriters focus on three factors: (1) control (A1c level), (2) complications (eyes, kidneys, neuropathy, cardiovascular), and (3) age of onset. Well-controlled diabetes (A1c under 7.0) diagnosed after age 50 with no complications can qualify for standard rates. Poorly controlled diabetes with cardiovascular complications shifts to table-rated coverage or guaranteed issue.
How Do Underwriters View Type 2 Diabetes?
Underwriters aren’t looking at a diagnosis — they’re looking at the full picture of how well diabetes is managed. The condition itself isn’t the disqualifier. Poorly controlled diabetes with complications is a very different risk profile than a well-managed case caught early. The three things underwriters focus on most are control, complications, and age of onset.
What 3 Factors Drive Your Type 2 Diabetes Underwriting Outcome?
1. Control (A1c Level)
A1c is the single most important number. General industry tiers:
- A1c under 6.5: Strong control — many carriers offer standard rates or near-standard.
- A1c 6.5–7.0: Good control — standard or mild table rating typical.
- A1c 7.1–8.0: Moderate control — Table 2–4 ratings common.
- A1c 8.1–9.0: Higher table ratings (4–6) typical.
- A1c above 9.0: Limited carrier options; underwriting becomes much tougher.
2. Complications
Diabetes-related complications significantly tighten the carrier pool:
- Retinopathy (eyes) — adds 1–2 tables of rating typically.
- Nephropathy (kidneys) — significant impact, especially with elevated creatinine or proteinuria.
- Neuropathy — typically a mild add-on rating.
- Cardiovascular involvement (CAD, prior MI, stroke) — the biggest underwriting concern; see our guide on life insurance after a heart attack.
3. Age of Onset
Later onset is more favorable. Type 2 diabetes diagnosed in your 50s or 60s is generally viewed more favorably than diagnosis in your 30s, because the cumulative damage clock has been running shorter.
What Else Do Carriers Look At?
- Treatment regimen. Diet-controlled or metformin-only is more favorable than multiple oral agents or insulin.
- Build (BMI). Diabetes + elevated BMI compounds risk. See our guide on life insurance with obesity.
- Blood pressure and cholesterol. Controlled = favorable; uncontrolled stacks risk.
- Smoking status. Smoking + diabetes is a major underwriting penalty.
- Consistency of follow-up care. Regular endocrinology or PCP visits with documented A1c trending is a strong positive signal.
What Do Rates Actually Look Like Compared to Standard?
Sample rates for a $500,000 20-year term policy:
| Profile | Typical Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| 50M, no diabetes, non-smoker, clean labs (reference) | $60 – $90 |
| 50M, T2D dx age 48, A1c 6.5, no complications | $90 – $140 |
| 50M, T2D dx age 45, A1c 7.5, mild retinopathy | $140 – $230 |
| 55M, T2D dx age 40, A1c 8.5, on insulin, mild CAD | $280 – $500 |
| 55M, T2D + prior MI + A1c 8.0 | $500+ or limited carriers / guaranteed issue |
What Can You Do To Improve Your Application?
- Get your A1c down before applying. 3–6 months of improved A1c can meaningfully change your rate class.
- Stabilize blood pressure and cholesterol. Controlled comorbidities offset diabetes underwriting penalties.
- Document complete medical records. Underwriters love seeing consistent endocrinology follow-up with trended labs.
- Quit smoking (12+ months). The single biggest non-clinical thing you can do.
- Don’t wait too long. Diabetes generally progresses over time. Applying while well-managed is almost always better than waiting.
- Use an independent broker who knows diabetic cases. Pre-screening with underwriters before a formal application protects your record and ensures the right carrier match.
Key Takeaways
- Type 2 diabetes is not a disqualifier — most applicants qualify for traditional coverage.
- The three factors that matter most: A1c control, complications, and age of onset.
- Well-controlled diabetes (A1c under 7.0) with no complications can qualify for standard rates.
- Compounding factors (smoking, obesity, cardiovascular disease) significantly tighten the carrier pool.
- Carrier selection is critical — different companies have very different appetites for diabetic cases.
Get a Free Quote
We’ve helped hundreds of clients with type 2 diabetes find coverage that fits their budget and health profile. Call 1-888-972-0024 or request a free quote online.