Can Convicted Felons Buy Life Insurance? Explore our Step-by-Step Guide for 2025 + YouTube Video
Can you get life insurance with a felony? Yes, absolutely. While applying for life insurance for felons can be more
involved than a conventional application, approval is achievable — especially if you apply with the right insurance carrier.
Insurance companies understand that everyone makes mistakes. However, from an underwriting standpoint, convicted felons are considered higher-risk applicants. Despite this, a felony conviction does not disqualify you from securing a policy.
Statistics do show that individuals with criminal histories tend to have shorter life expectancies, influencing the underwriting process.
In this guide, we’ll explain how you can apply for life insurance for convicted felons, including options that allow you to skip the medical exam.
Table of Contents
Can a Convicted Felon Get Life Insurance?
Yes, but the process involves additional scrutiny. Life insurance carriers assess various risk factors, and a felony can affect:
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Availability of coverage
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Cost of premiums
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Types of policy options
Before applying, it’s crucial to understand the key considerations insurers evaluate.
1. Types of Felony Convictions:
Not all felonies are weighed equally. Non-violent felonies, such as white-collar crimes, are typically viewed more favorably. Conversely, violent crimes (e.g., assault, battery, or rape) and narcotics sales significantly reduce your chances of approval.
Each application for a convicted felon life insurance policy is evaluated on a case-by-case basis based on the nature of the crime.
2. Time Since Conviction:
The more time that has passed since your conviction, the better your chances. For example, individuals convicted over 10-15 years ago who have maintained a clean record are far more likely to be approved.
3. Age at the Time of Conviction:
Younger applicants often receive more leniency, as youthful mistakes are seen as more redeemable. Mature applicants with long-standing clean records have an advantage.
4. Number of Convictions:
One felony is manageable; a pattern of multiple convictions will likely lead to a decline.
5. Current Parole or Probation Status:
Being on parole or probation at the time of application increases the likelihood of a denial. Violating the conditions could result in reincarceration, raising your risk profile.
6. Health and Lifestyle Factors for Convicted Felons
Regardless of criminal history, health remains the primary underwriting factor. Hazardous lifestyles, risky hobbies, and poor health can independently impact approval odds.
Applying for Life Insurance for Felons with Specific Felonies
Firearm-Related Offenses:
Convictions involving firearms during a crime typically result in automatic declines. Carriers perceive firearm use as an intent to cause severe harm, making insurability nearly impossible.
Sex Crime Convictions:
Applicants with sex-related felony convictions (e.g., rape, child molestation) are routinely declined.
Incarcerated Applicants:
If you are currently incarcerated, conventional life insurance approval is extremely unlikely. However, you may still qualify for Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance, a type of final expense coverage with:
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No medical exams
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Death benefits up to $25,000 or $35,000
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A two-year waiting period for full benefits
Factors Life Insurance Companies Consider
Life insurers evaluating felon applicants focus on factors such as:
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Chronic health conditions
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Tobacco and narcotics use
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History of incarceration-related diseases
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Accidental death or death during criminal activity
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Multiple bankruptcies
*Statistical Insight: Nearly 44% of former inmates are re-arrested within a year of release, a factor insurers cannot ignore.
How to Quickly & Easily Understand the Life Insurance Application Process + YouTube Video
Do Felons Pay More for Life Insurance?
Yes, in many cases. When risk exposure increases, so do premiums. Rates are determined by actuaries using extensive statistical analysis to ensure fairness across policyholders.
Premiums for life insurance for X felons may vary depending on the severity and nature of the offense, combined with personal health factors.
Convicted Felons: Health’s Impact on Premiums:
If you’re in excellent health, your criminal background may have less influence on your rates. Conversely, serious health issues could further elevate your premiums or complicate approval.
Pre-screening applicants based on medical history helps identify the best carriers and the most accurate premium expectations. There are a lot of variables when applying for convicted felon life insurance policies.
Can a Convict Currently in Prison Buy Life Insurance?
The only form of life insurance available to a convict currently confined to prison would be a guaranteed issue life insurance policy. The statistics of being murdered in a penitentiary are high.
No-Medical-Exam Life Insurance Options
If you prefer to skip traditional underwriting, No-Medical-Exam Life Insurance can be a strong alternative. Features include:
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No medical records or lab tests
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Faster approvals (often within 24-48 hours)
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Fewer health and lifestyle questions
These policies are ideal for applicants seeking convenience and quicker coverage.
Expert Tips for Individuals Applying for Convicted Felon Life Insurance
Work with an Independent Agent:
Independent agents—like our team—partner with over 40 top-rated life insurance companies. This dramatically increases your odds of approval and finding competitive rates.
Always Disclose Your Full History:
Complete honesty is crucial. Concealing information can lead to:
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Denied death claims
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Policy cancellations
Transparency allows agents to advocate effectively on your behalf.
Showcase Rehabilitation Efforts:
Highlight achievements such as:
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Stable employment
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Volunteering or community service
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Completion of rehabilitation programs
Demonstrating a stable lifestyle builds trust with underwriters.
Get a Personalized Rate Quote
Want to know exactly what your premium might be? Complete our Criminal History Questionnaire for a customized quote.
Visit our Contact Us page for our email address and fax number. We’re available seven days a week to assist you.
Final Thoughts: Life Insurance for Felons
Securing life insurance for convicted felons is not impossible—it simply requires the right guidance and preparation.
At our agency, we specialize in helping high-risk applicants find the best life insurance for felons. Whether you’re applying for traditional coverage or exploring non-medical options, the first step is reaching out.
Call us today at (708-334-6226) and let us help you get started on the path to protection and peace of mind.
All the best,
Jack Venturi
