Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance for My Spouse: Everything You Need to Know

Last Updated: October 1, 2025 | Written by President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM

Can I Buy Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance for My Spouse?

Yes—you can purchase a policy for your spouse, but there are a few requirements:

• Insurable Interest – You must have a clear financial interest in your spouse’s life (which you do by being legally married).
• Permission – Your spouse must agree to the policy. You cannot buy it secretly.
• Signature – Your spouse will need to sign the application for coverage.

Once these steps are met, you can become the policy owner, pay the premiums, and name yourself—or another family member—as the beneficiary.

How It Works: Step by Step

Here’s how guaranteed issue life insurance for your spouse typically works:

1. Apply Online or by Phone

Most insurers offer a quick application process that takes minutes. No exams, no labs.

2. Answer Basic Questions

While there are no health questions, your spouse will need to provide basic information like age, name, and Social Security number.

3. Choose a Coverage Amount

Coverage amounts are usually modest, often between $5,000 and $25,000, designed primarily for final expenses.

4. Pay Monthly Premiums

Premiums are locked in for life and will not increase with age.

5. Understand the Waiting Period

Most guaranteed issue policies include a two-year graded benefit period.

If your spouse passes away from natural causes during this time, the insurer refunds the premiums (plus interest) instead of paying the full death benefit.

Accidental death is usually covered from day one.

Benefits of Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance for Your Spouse

• Guaranteed acceptance regardless of health conditions
• Permanent coverage that never expires if premiums are paid
• Fixed premiums that won’t increase as your spouse ages
• Cash value growth that builds over time
• Peace of mindknowing funeral and final expenses are covered

Key Factors to Consider Before Buying

While guaranteed issue life insurance is a lifesaver in many situations, it’s not for everyone.

Before purchasing for your spouse, keep these factors in mind:

• Cost – Premiums are higher compared to traditional policies because the insurer takes on more risk.
• Coverage limit – The payout is smaller, usually enough for end-of-life costs but not large income replacement.
• Waiting period – Be prepared for the two-year graded death benefit limitation.

Real-Life Example of Guaranteed Issue Coverage

Imagine your spouse is 72 years old and has a history of heart problems.

Traditional life insurance companies decline coverage. With guaranteed issue life insurance, you can still secure a $15,000 policy to cover funeral expenses.

Even if your spouse passes away three years later, the full benefit will be paid directly to you as the beneficiary.

Who Should Consider This Option for Their Spouse?

Guaranteed issue life insurance is a good fit if your spouse:

• Is between 45 and 85 years old
• Has been declined for other life insurance
• Needs coverage mainly forfinal expenses
• Wants a simple, no-exam option

Frequently Asked Questions About Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance for My Spouse

1. Can I buy guaranteed issue life insurance for my spouse?

Yes. As long as your spouse gives permission and signs the application, you can buy guaranteed issue life insurance for them.

You’ll be the policy owner, pay the premiums, and choose the beneficiary.

2. Does my spouse need to take a medical exam?

No. Guaranteed issue life insurance does not require medical exams or health questions. Approval is guaranteed based only on age eligibility.

3. What is the age limit for guaranteed issue life insurance?

Most insurers offer coverage for spouses between 45 and 85 years old. The exact age range may vary by company.

4. How much coverage can my spouse get?

Coverage amounts are typically modest, usually between $5,000 and $25,000, designed to cover funeral costs, medical bills, and other final expenses.

5. What happens if my spouse passes away during the waiting period?

If your spouse dies from natural causes within the first two years of the policy, most insurers return the premiums paid (plus interest). Full benefits are paid after the waiting period.

Accidental death is usually covered immediately.

6. How much does guaranteed issue life insurance cost for my spouse?

Premiums are higher than traditional life insurance because there are no health questions or exams. The exact cost depends on your spouse’s age, gender, and the coverage amount you choose. Start Your FREE Quote.

7. Who should consider this type of coverage?

Guaranteed issue life insurance is best for spouses who:

• Are older (40–85)
• Have serious health conditions
• Have been declined for traditional coverage
• Want simple, lifetime protection for end-of-life costs

8. Can I be the beneficiary of my spouse’s policy?

Yes. As the policy owner, you can choose yourself, another family member, or even a trust as the beneficiary of your spouse’s guaranteed issue life insurance.

Final Thoughts

When health issues or age make traditional life insurance out of reach, guaranteed issue life insurance for your spouse can provide financial security and peace of mind. It ensures that final expenses are covered, sparing loved ones from financial stress.

The process is simple, approval is guaranteed, and coverage lasts a lifetime. Just keep in mind the higher premiums, modest death benefit, and waiting period before making a decision.

If you’re ready, compare top providers today and take the first step toward protecting your family.

Guaranteed Issue 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.