Life Insurance for Smokers with COPD: How to Get Approved and Find Affordable Coverage

Last Updated: July 20, 2026 | Written by President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM

Can Smokers with COPD Get Life Insurance?

Yes. Having COPD and being a smoker does not automatically disqualify you from buying life insurance.

Insurance companies evaluate each application individually based on several factors, including:

• Your age
• The severity of your COPD
• Whether your COPD is mild, moderate, or severe
• How much you smoke
• Your overall health
• Your medications
• Any hospitalizations
• Oxygen use
• Your occupation and lifestyle

Many applicants with mild or moderate COPD can still qualify for traditional term or permanent life insurance.

How Smoking and COPD Affect Life Insurance Rates

Smoking alone already increases life insurance premiums. When combined with COPD, insurers view the risk as significantly higher.

Companies typically look at:

• Diagnosis date
• Pulmonary function test results
• Frequency of flare-ups
• Recent hospital admissions
• Current prescriptions
• Oxygen therapy
• Ability to work and perform daily activities

Even if one insurance company declines your application, another company may approve you.

That's why comparing multiple companies is one of the smartest ways to save money.

Request a FREE personalized quote today and discover which insurers are most competitive for smokers with COPD.

Best Life Insurance Options for Smokers with COPD

Level Term Life Insurance

For many families, level term life insurance offers the most affordable protection.

Benefits include:

• Lower monthly premiums
• Fixed rates
• Coverage amounts up to several million dollars
• Terms ranging from 10 to 30 years
• Death benefit paid income tax-free to beneficiaries in most cases

Applicants with mild COPD often have the best chance of qualifying.

Get a level term life insurance quote.

No Medical Exam Life Insurance

Many insurers now offer no-exam policies that eliminate:

• Blood work
• Urine samples
• Medical exams

Instead, companies review:

• Prescription history
• Medical records
• Motor vehicle reports
• Health questionnaires

Approval can often happen within days.

Get a no-exam life insurance quote.

Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance

If your COPD is severe or you've previously been declined, guaranteed issue life insurance may still provide coverage.

Advantages include:

• No medical exam
• No health questions
• Guaranteed acceptance within eligible age ranges
• Permanent coverage
• Fixed premiums

Although coverage amounts are generally smaller, these policies can help cover funeral expenses and final bills.

Get a guaranteed issue life insurance quote.

How to Improve Your Chances of Approval

Before applying, consider these tips:

• Work with an independent life insurance agency.
• Be completely honest on your application.
• Have your medication list ready.
• Know your COPD diagnosis date.
• Keep regular medical appointments.
• Follow your physician's treatment plan.
• If possible, reduce or quit smoking before applying.

Even a healthier overall lifestyle may help your application.

Should You Quit Smoking Before Applying?

Quitting smoking is one of the best financial decisions you can make.

Many insurance companies allow former smokers to qualify for lower rates after remaining nicotine-free for a qualifying period, often 12 months or longer. Every insurer has different guidelines.

If you need coverage immediately, it may still make sense to apply now and request a rate review after you've quit.

Why You Should Compare Multiple Insurance Companies

No two life insurance companies evaluate COPD the same way.

One insurer may charge significantly more than another for the exact same applicant.

Comparing quotes can potentially save hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars over the life of your policy.

Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Get your FREE life insurance comparison today and let experienced specialists match you with companies that regularly insure smokers with COPD.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get life insurance if I have severe COPD?

Yes. While severe COPD may limit your options, guaranteed issue life insurance and some simplified issue policies may still be available. Get a guaranteed issue life insurance quote.

2. Will I need a medical exam?

Not always. Many applicants qualify for no-exam life insurance, depending on age, coverage amount, and medical history. Get a no-exam life insurance quote.

3. Can I qualify if I still smoke every day?

Yes. Daily smokers are approved every day, although premiums are generally higher than for non-smokers.

4. What if I've been declined before?

A previous decline doesn't mean every insurer will deny you. Different companies use different underwriting guidelines. Get a guaranteed acceptance life insurance quote.

5. Is term life insurance available?

Many smokers with mild or moderate COPD can qualify for term life insurance, though pricing depends on individual circumstances.

The Bottom Line

Being a smoker with COPD doesn't mean you have to go without life insurance. Whether you're looking to protect your family's financial future, replace lost income, or cover final expenses, there are coverage options available.

The most important step is choosing the right insurance company for your health profile. An experienced independent agent can compare multiple insurers and help you find the best value based on your medical history.

Get started today with a FREE, no-obligation life insurance quote. Comparing multiple companies could help you find affordable coverage that fits your needs and budget—even if you've been turned down before.

Compare Life Insurance Quotes

Top Pick – JRC Insurance Group

JRC Insurance Group helps you shop, compare and save on life insurance protection. Regardless of your age or health background, we'll shop our 63 top life insurance companies and find you affordable life insurance you need to protect your family and fit your budget. Compare the best life insurance rates for savings up to 73%. Get Your FREE Quote.

Highly Recommended – 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

Resources:

• Tips for Buying Smokers Life Insurance
• Pros and Cons of Smoker Life Insurance
• Guaranteed Acceptance Life Insurance with COPD
• Smoker Life Insurance FAQs
• Burial insurance with COPD
• Life Insurance for COPD Sufferers
• Life Insurance for Seniors with COPD

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.