Final Expense Insurance for Smokers: How to Get Affordable Coverage Even If You Smoke

Last Updated: July 22, 2026 | Written by President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM

What is Final Expense Insurance?

Final expense insurance is a small whole life insurance policy designed to help pay for:

• Funeral expenses
• Burial or cremation costs
• Medical bills
• Outstanding debts
• Credit card balances
• Legal expenses
• Family living expenses

Coverage typically ranges from $5,000 to $50,000, making it an affordable option for seniors and individuals who simply want to protect loved ones from unexpected end-of-life expenses.

Unlike traditional life insurance, final expense policies are usually much easier to qualify for.

Can Smokers Get Final Expense Insurance?

Yes.

Smoking does not automatically disqualify you from getting coverage.

Insurance companies regularly approve applicants who use:

• Cigarettes
• Cigars
• Pipes
• E-cigarettes
• Nicotine patches
• Nicotine gum
• Smokeless tobacco
• Chewing tobacco

Some companies even offer competitive rates for smokers if you are otherwise in good health.

The important part is finding the insurance company that views your tobacco use more favorably.

Does Smoking Increase Final Expense Insurance Rates?

Usually, yes.

Insurance companies classify tobacco users as higher risk because smoking increases the likelihood of health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• COPD
• Lung disease
• Cancer
• High blood pressure

As a result, smokers generally pay more than non-smokers.

However, because final expense insurance offers smaller death benefits than traditional life insurance, the difference in premium is often much less than people expect.

Average Monthly Cost of Final Expense Insurance for Smokers

Premiums depend on factors such as:

• Age
• Gender
• State
• Coverage amount
• Health history
• Tobacco use

Here are estimated monthly costs for healthy smokers seeking $15,000 in coverage:

                                       Age        Male             Female

                                         50           $38-$55                $30-$45

                                         60           $55-$80                $45-$70

                                         70           $80-$125              $65-$105

                                         80           $145-$220            $120-$185

These are estimates only. Comparing quotes is the best way to find your actual rate.

No Medical Exam Final Expense Insurance for Smokers

One of the biggest advantages of final expense insurance is that many policies require:

• No medical exam
• No blood work
• No urine test
• No needles
• Fast approval

Instead, most insurers ask a short series of health questions.

Many applicants receive approval within days.

Guaranteed Issue Final Expense Insurance for Smokers

If you have serious medical conditions in addition to smoking, guaranteed issue life insurance may be the right option.

These policies:

• Require no health questions
• Require no medical exam
• Cannot deny coverage because of health conditions
• Accept almost everyone within the eligible age range

Although premiums are higher and benefits are typically limited during the first two policy years, guaranteed issue coverage provides peace of mind when other options aren't available.

Best Final Expense Insurance Features for Smokers

When comparing policies, look for:

• Lifetime coverage
• Fixed monthly premiums
• Guaranteed death benefit
• Cash value growth
• No medical exam options
• Fast approval
• Financially strong insurance companies
• Ability to name multiple beneficiaries

The best policy is not always the cheapest—it should also meet your family's long-term needs.

Tips to Save Money on Final Expense Insurance

You may qualify for lower premiums by following these strategies:

Compare Multiple Insurance Companies

Rates vary widely.

One insurer may charge 30% to 50% less than another for identical coverage.

Apply While You're Younger

Premiums increase with age.

Buying sooner can lock in lower lifetime rates.

Choose Only the Coverage You Need

Estimate funeral costs, debts, and other final expenses before selecting your policy amount.

Work With an Independent Agent

Independent agents compare multiple carriers rather than selling policies from only one company.

What If You Have COPD or Other Health Conditions?

Many smokers also have health issues such as:

• COPD
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Previous heart attack
• Cancer history

Fortunately, many insurance companies still offer simplified issue or guaranteed issue final expense insurance.

The right insurer depends on your complete health profile—not just whether you smoke.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can smokers qualify for final expense insurance?

Yes. Most smokers qualify for either simplified issue or guaranteed issue final expense insurance.

2. Is there a medical exam?

Many policies require no medical exam, blood work, or urine test.

3. How much coverage can I buy?

Most insurers offer coverage between $5,000 and $50,000.

4. Will my premiums ever increase?

No. Whole life final expense policies typically have fixed premiums that never increase as long as you continue paying them.

5. Can I get coverage if I have COPD?

Yes. Many companies offer policies specifically designed for applicants with COPD and other chronic health conditions.

Get Your Free Final Expense Insurance Quote Today

Smoking doesn't have to prevent you from protecting the people you love. Whether you're looking for affordable burial insurance, no medical exam coverage, or guaranteed issue life insurance, comparing multiple insurance companies is the fastest way to find the right policy at the best price.

Request your FREE final expense insurance quote today and compare rates from trusted insurers in minutes. There is no obligation, and you could discover affordable coverage that fits your budget while giving your family valuable financial protection when they need it most.

Compare Life Insurance Quotes for Final Expenses

Top Pick – Mutual of Omaha

Mutual of Omaha offers guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance for people age 45 to 85. Choose $2,000 up to $25,000 of coverage. Rates start as low as $8.84 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. 

• Your life insurance policy comes with a 30 day Risk-Free, Money-Back Guarantee

Highly Recommended – Globe Life Insurance

Get FREE Information On How $1* Buys $50,000 Globe Life Insurance For Seniors

• No Medical Exam – Simple Application.
• No Waiting Period. Buy Direct.
• Rates As Low As $3.49 Per Month.
• The Globe Life Family Of Companies Has Nearly 17 Million Policies In Force.
• No Phone Required. No Credit Required.
• The Globe Life Family Of Companies Has Over $224 Billion Of Coverage In Force.
• Globe Life Is Rated A (Excellent) By A.M. Best Company As Of August 2023.

Resources:

• Who Needs Final Expense Insurance?
• Reasons to Buy Final Expense Insurance
• Life Insurance on Aging Parents to Cover Final Expenses
• Can I Buy Final Expense Insurance for My Parents?
• Does Final Expense Life Insurance Require a Medical Exam?
• Final Expense Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions
• 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.

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Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. Consult a licensed professional for advice.