Heart disease is one of the most common reasons life insurance applicants receive a rated policy or are declined. However, a prior heart attack or heart disease diagnosis does not automatically disqualify you from coverage — what matters most is the type, severity, and how well it is managed.
What Insurance Companies Look At
Underwriters reviewing a heart disease or prior heart attack history will typically request and evaluate the following:
- Type of heart condition: coronary artery disease (CAD), heart attack (myocardial infarction), heart failure, arrhythmia, or valve disease — each carries a different underwriting profile
- Date of most recent cardiac event: the further in the past, the more favorable the underwriting outlook
- Ejection fraction: a measure of how well the heart pumps blood; values below 50% raise concern
- Treatment received: stent placement, bypass surgery (CABG), angioplasty, or medical management only
- Current medications: beta-blockers, statins, blood thinners, ACE inhibitors
- Compliance with treatment: regular cardiology follow-ups and medication adherence are viewed positively
- Cholesterol and blood pressure levels: well-controlled numbers improve your chances
- Smoking history: tobacco use combined with heart disease significantly increases rates
- Other comorbidities: diabetes, obesity, or kidney disease alongside heart disease compounds underwriting risk
How Carriers Typically Respond
Most applicants with a stable, well-managed cardiac history can obtain term or permanent life insurance, though often at a table rating (substandard premium). A heart attack within the past 12 months typically results in postponement. After 2–5 years with no recurrence and strong follow-up care, standard or mildly rated offers become more common. Some carriers specialize in cardiac cases and will offer more competitive rates than others.
What You Can Do to Improve Your Outcome
- Maintain all cardiology appointments and keep records available
- Stay on prescribed medications and document compliance
- Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
- Avoid tobacco in all forms
- Work with a broker who specializes in high-risk cases — carrier selection is critical
At Term Insurance Brokers, we work with dozens of carriers and know which ones are most competitive for cardiac histories. Contact us to get a personalized assessment.