Can You Get Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance with Health Problems?

Last Updated: September 25, 2025 | Written by President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM

What Is Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance?

Guaranteed issue life insurance is a type of whole life policy designed toaccept every eligible applicant, regardless of health.

• No medical exam: You won’t need bloodwork or a doctor’s visit.
• No health questions: Approval is based on age and residency, not medical records.
• Lifetime coverage: Premiums stay level, and coverage lasts as long as you pay.
• Most insurers set the coverage amount between $5,000 and $25,000, which is ideal for final expenses, small debts, or a legacy gift.

Why It’s Ideal for People with Health Problems

If you have conditions like heart disease, cancer history, diabetes complications, or other chronic illnesses, traditional underwritten policies may decline you or charge steep premiums. Guaranteed issue plans eliminate that barrier.

Key benefits:

• Certain acceptance if you meet age and residency requirements.
• Quick approval—often within 24–48 hours.
• Predictable premiums that never increase.
• The trade-off is cost: premiums are higher per dollar of coverage, and most policies include a graded death benefit (typically a 2-year waiting period before the full payout for natural causes).

Real-Life Examples of Guaranteed Issue Coverage

Maria, 67 – Living with Heart Disease

After two declines from major carriers, Maria needed a policy to cover funeral costs. She applied for a $15,000 guaranteed issue plan, was approved the same day, and now pays a fixed monthly premium that fits her retirement budget.

Devon, 58 – Managing Complications from Diabetes

Devon’s fluctuating A1C levels disqualified him from simplified-issue term insurance. A guaranteed issue policy gave him $20,000 of coverage without lab tests, ensuring his wife can pay off remaining credit card debt if he passes.

Eileen, 73 – Cancer Survivor

Eileen completed cancer treatment five years ago but still faced rejections. She purchased a $10,000 guaranteed issue policy to spare her children the cost of her final arrangements, gaining immediate peace of mind.

Tips to Find the Best Policy

 

• Compare multiple carriers — rates and coverage amounts vary widely.
• Understand the graded benefit — know how long until full payout.
• Check financial strength ratings to ensure the insurer’s reliability.
• Work with a licensed independent agent who specializes in high-risk applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Qualifies for Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance?

Typically U.S. residents ages 40–80 (ranges differ by insurer). Health status is not a factor.

How Much Coverage Can I Buy?

Most plans offer $5,000–$25,000 in whole life coverage, intended for final expenses.

Is There a Waiting Period?

Yes. If death occurs from natural causes during the first two years, beneficiaries usually receive a refund of premiums plus interest instead of the full death benefit. Accidental death is typically covered from day one.

How Much Does It Cost?

Premiums vary by age, gender, and amount of coverage. Expect higher rates than term or traditional whole life because the insurer assumes more risk.

Can I Increase Coverage Later?

Some insurers allow additional policies, but each has its own limit. Review your long-term needs with an agent.

Bottom Line

Yes — you can absolutely get guaranteed issue life insurance even with serious health problems. While it costs more than traditional coverage, it provides immediate acceptance and lifelong protection. For anyone who’s been turned away before, it can be the fastest, surest path to financial security for loved ones.

Next Steps: Compare quotes from several highly rated insurers and speak with an independent agent to secure the best rate and benefit structure for your situation.

Guaranteed Acceptance Life Insurance Quotes

Top Pick – United of Omaha

United of Omaha offers guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance for people age 45 to 85. Choose $3,000 up to $25,000 of coverage. Rates start as low as $8.80 per month. There’s no medical exam and no health questions. You cannot be turned down. You can get a quote and apply online now. Start Here to get a FREE Quote.

Highly Recommended – Allstate Benefits Insurance Company

Allstate Benefit's Guaranteed Acceptance policy offers $10,000 to $75,000 of coverage to working applicants between the ages of 18 and 70. Rates start as low as $9.65 per month. There’s no medical exam and no health questions. You cannot be turned down. You can get a quote and apply today. Start Here to get a FREE Quote.

NOTE: To qualify, applicants must be working at least 20 hours per week and not collecting any form of disability income or SSDI.

No Waiting Period: The policy goes In Force on the first day of the month after it's purchased. For example, if the policy was purchased during the month of January, it would be active February 1st.

Resources:

• Guide to Guaranteed Acceptance Life Insurance
• Tips for Buying Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
• Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance FAQs
• Pros and Cons of Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
• A.M. Best Company: Compare financial strength ratings of life insurance companies
• Life Happens.org: Learn about life insurance and review facts.

About Our Methodology

Reviewed By: President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM

• 30+ years of experience in insurance planning

How We Keep This Guide Accurate: We regularly updates our content to reflect the latest rates and industry trends. We are committed to providing transparent, unbiased information to help you make the best decision for your family.

At Term-Life-Online.com We value your trust and privacy.