Best Life Insurance with High Cholesterol (2025)

Does High Cholesterol Affect Life Insurance? Explore Our Complete Guide for 2025 + YouTube Video

Applying for life insurance with high cholesterol is simple. If your cholesterol levels are controlled, you are likely to receive preferred rates.

When it comes to submitting an application, your overall health plays a significant role in determining eligibility and premiums.

Some of the key indicators insurers assess are your cholesterol levels, blood pressure readings and height and weight.

Elevated cholesterol can increase the risk of serious conditions like heart disease and stroke, which insurers use to evaluate risk.

If you have high cholesterol and are looking for life insurance, don’t worry. High cholesterol is a common condition, affecting 38% of adults in the U.S.

This guide will break down the key considerations for securing life insurance with high cholesterol and provide steps you can take to get the best rates.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Get Life Insurance if I Have High Cholesterol?

You can get approved for life insurance even if you have high cholesterol. However, your premiums may be higher than someone with healthier cholesterol levels.

Will Life Insurance Cover Health Complications Related to High Cholesterol?

Yes, life insurance policies do provide coverage for health complications related to high cholesterol, such as heart disease or stroke. However, it is important to check the terms and conditions of your specific policy.

Does High Cholesterol Affect the Cost of Life Insurance?

Life insurance companies consider many factors when determining premiums, including age, health history, and lifestyle habits. If you have high cholesterol, your premiums may be slightly higher than those of someone with normal levels.

However, the impact on your premiums will depend on the severity of your medical condition and any other associated risk factors.

 

What Is Considered High Cholesterol for Life Insurance Companies?

Total Cholesterol:

 A level of 200 mg/dL or higher is considered high. 

 

Understanding Cholesterol Levels

Types of Cholesterol

Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL):

Often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, high levels of LDL can lead to the buildup of fatty deposits in your arteries.

High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL):

Known as the “good” cholesterol, HDL helps remove excess LDL from your bloodstream.

Total Cholesterol:

This combines LDL, HDL, and triglycerides (another type of fat in your blood).

Healthy Cholesterol Ranges

CholeTotal Cholesterol:

Below 200 mg/dL is desirable.

LDL Readings:

Below 130 mg/dL is considered optimal.

HDL Readings:

A reading above 40 mg/dL (for men) or 50 mg/dL (for women) is considered unhealthy.

Insurance companies also assess your cholesterol ratio (total cholesterol divided by HDL). A lower ratio (ideally below 5.0) reflects better cholesterol health.

 

How to Apply for Life Insurance With a Medical Condition: YouTube Video

 

Tips for Getting the Best Life Insurance Rates

Once you understand the impact of high cholesterol on life insurance premiums, you may be wondering how to get the best rates possible.

While there is no guaranteed method for obtaining lower rates, there are steps you can take to potentially improve your chances.

Make Lifestyle Changes:

One of the most effective ways to manage high cholesterol and potentially lower your life insurance rates is by making healthy lifestyle changes.

This includes quitting smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and following a nutritious diet low in saturated and trans fats.

Stay Consistent with Treatment Plans:

If you have been prescribed medication or other forms of treatment for high cholesterol, it is important to stay consistent with them.

Adhering to your treatment plan can help keep your cholesterol levels under control and minimize the risk of developing other health complications.

Quitting Smoking:

Smoking is not only harmful to your overall health, but it also contributes to high cholesterol levels. The chemicals in cigarettes can damage the walls of your arteries, making it easier for cholesterol to build up and block them.

Quitting smoking can significantly improve your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease.

Exercise Regularly:

Regular physical activity has been shown to increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels while lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, five days a week

 

How Life Insurance Companies Evaluate Cholesterol

Life insurers don’t just look at your total cholesterol number; they consider the overall picture of how your cholesterol is managed. A controlled cholesterol level through medication or lifestyle changes is more favorable than untreated high cholesterol.

Here’s What Insurers Look for During Underwriting

Total Cholesterol and Ratio:

This is a crucial factor in determining eligibility.

Medication Use:

Insurers often view medication use as a positive sign. It shows that you’re addressing the issue.

Health History:

Conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes may affect your rates.

Lifestyle and Habits:

Smoking, obesity, and inactivity can raise red flags.

 

How Cholesterol Levels Affect Life Insurance Rates

Here’s how cholesterol can influence your life insurance premiums:

Preferred Rates:

Applicants with healthy cholesterol levels or well-managed ratios can secure preferred or lower rates.

Standard Rates:

Slightly elevated cholesterol levels may result in standard rates, which are still affordable.

Higher Premiums:

Unmanaged high cholesterol or additional health risks (e.g., heart disease) can lead to higher rates.

Application Declines:

Rarely, applicants with extremely high cholesterol and multiple health complications may be denied coverage.

Many insurers reassess rates if you make significant health improvements. If you lower your cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes or medication, you may request a re-evaluation to reduce your premiums.

 

Tips for Getting Approved or Lowering Rates

If you’re concerned about life insurance approval with high cholesterol, follow these strategies to boost your chances and save money:

1. Take Control of Your Health

Adopt Healthy Habits:

Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Minimize saturated fats and trans fats.

Exercise Regularly:

Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week to boost “good” HDL cholesterol.

Quit Smoking:

Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol and has other adverse health effects.

2. Use Medications Effectively:

Don’t avoid medication prescribed by your doctor. Properly managed cholesterol—even with medication—is viewed positively by most insurers.

3. Compare Multiple Insurers:

Different insurers have varying underwriting guidelines. Some companies are more lenient with conditions like high cholesterol. Work with an experienced independent agent such as us to compare policies and find the best match for your health profile.

4. Consider Policy Options Without a Medical Exam:

Simplified issue or guaranteed issue life insurance policies don’t require medical tests, making them a good option for individuals with uncontrolled cholesterol levels.

5. Request Policy Re-Evaluation:

After leading a healthier lifestyle, ask your insurer to conduct a new medical exam to determine whether you qualify for lower rates.

 

Types of Life Insurance Policies for High Cholesterol

When choosing a policy, consider these options based on your health status and financial goals:

1. Term Life Insurance:

• Coverage for a specific term period (e.g., 10, 20, 30 to 40 years).
• Most affordable option.
• Requires medical underwriting but offers competitive rates for good health management.

2. Whole Life Insurance:

• Provides lifetime coverage with fixed premiums.
• Includes a savings component (cash value).
• Ideal if you need permanent coverage or have significant health risks.

3. Simplified Issue Life Insurance:

• No medical exam; approval based on a health questionnaire.
• Good for moderate health risks but may have lower coverage limits.

4. Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance:

• Does not require a medical exam or health questionnaire.
• Guaranteed approval but higher premiums and limited coverage (typically for final expenses).

5. Universal Life Insurance:

• Universal life is a permanent form of life insurance with less emphasis on cash value, which in turn lowers the premium. 

 

Best Life Insurance Companies for People with High Cholesterol

Prudential:

Prudential offers a Preferred Plus rate class for individuals who have managed their cholesterol levels well.

AIG:

AIG offers an Elite Plus rate class for those with moderate hypercholesterolemia who are otherwise healthy. They have a program specifically designed for individuals with high cholesterol, offering lower premiums for those who make lifestyle changes to improve their cholesterol levels.

Mutual of Omaha:

They have lenient underwriting guidelines for individuals with controlled cholesterol levels and no other major health issues.

Protective Life:

Protective Life has very flexible underwriting guidelines, allowing some applicants with high cholesterol to qualify for their Standard Plus rate class.

Lincoln Financial:

Lincoln Financial offers competitive rates for applicants with high cholesterol, especially if they are otherwise healthy and have no other major health issues.

American National:

They offer customizable policies that take into account an individual’s overall health, including their cholesterol levels.

MetLife:

MetLife has programs in place to help individuals with high cholesterol manage their condition and potentially improve their rates over time.

Nationwide:

Nationwide offers competitive rates for individuals with high cholesterol who are actively managing their condition through medication and lifestyle changes.

New York Life:

New York Life does not have a no medical exam option for individuals with high cholesterol, making the application process easier and quicker.

Transamerica:

Transamerica takes a holistic approach to underwriting, considering an individual’s overall health and family history in addition to their cholesterol levels.

 

How to Lower Your Cholesterol and Improve Your Health

Lowering your cholesterol levels not only helps you secure life insurance at competitive rates, but it also has numerous benefits for your overall health. Here are some tips to help you manage your cholesterol levels:

Exercise Regularly:

Regular physical activity can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL).

Follow a Healthy Diet:

Incorporate foods that are known to lower LDL, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins into your daily meals.

Avoid Unhealthy Habits:

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact your cholesterol levels.

Consider Medication:

Consult with your healthcare provider about medications that can help lower your cholesterol levels if lifestyle changes are not enough.

Know Your Family History:

If high cholesterol runs in your family, you may be at a higher risk and should monitor your levels more closely.

Get Regular Check-Ups:

It is important to get your cholesterol levels checked regularly, especially if you have any risk factors or a family history of high cholesterol.

Managing Stress:

Chronic stress can contribute to high cholesterol levels, so it is important to find healthy ways to manage stress such as meditation, exercise, or therapy.

Maintain a Healthy Weight:

Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for high cholesterol. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet can help lower your cholesterol levels.

Avoid Smoking:

Smoking damages your blood vessels and can contribute to high cholesterol levels. Quitting smoking can not only improve your overall health, but it can also help lower your cholesterol.

Side Effects of Medication:

If you are prescribed medication for high cholesterol, it is important to be aware of any potential side effects and discuss them with your doctor.

 

Have Questions, We’re Here 7 Days a Week to Help You

By managing your health, exploring various policy options, and working with us, you can secure the best life insurance with high cholesterol at preferred rates.

With 29 years of experience, our team can help you navigate these complexities and find the best life insurance plan tailored to your needs.

Call us today at 708-334-6226 (available 7 days a week) to discuss your options or get a free quote.

Your health shouldn’t be a barrier to protecting your family’s future. Take the first step toward securing your peace of mind today.

All the best,
Jack Venturi