What to Do if You Are Denied Life Insurance? Explore All Your Options to Re-apply and Get Approved in 2025 + YouTube Video
The question of what to do if you are denied life insurance is a question many people have pondered. Applying for life
insurance is an important step in protecting your family’s future.
But receiving a denial letter from an insurance company can feel discouraging—especially when health conditions are the reason.
Whether it’s high blood pressure, diabetes, a history of heart disease, or another issue, a life insurance denial doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
This guide will help you understand why your application was denied and what steps you can take to get approved for life insurance, even with health issues.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
1. Why was my life insurance application denied?
Most denials stem from health conditions such as:
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High blood pressure or hypertension
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Diabetes
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Heart disease
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Cancer history
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High cholesterol
Insurers may also deny applications due to risky hobbies, dangerous occupations, or even incomplete application information.
2. What are my options after being denied life insurance?
Don’t give up. You can:
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Review the denial letter to understand why you were declined.
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Consult with a knowledgeable life insurance agent to discuss alternative options.
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Improve your health if possible (e.g., better control of blood pressure or diabetes).
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Explore other types of life insurance policies that are easier to qualify for.
3. How long should I wait before reapplying?
If you were denied due to a temporary health issue, wait until it’s under control—typically 6-12 months—before reapplying. For chronic conditions, an agent can guide you to policies that don’t require perfect health.
4. Can a different insurance company approve me?
Yes! Each company has its own underwriting guidelines. A decline from one company doesn’t mean all will reject you. Working with an agent who understands the market can increase your chances of approval. Choosing the correct insurer is very important for people with hazardous sports and hobbies also.
5. Will my denial affect future applications?
It may. Insurers often ask if you’ve been denied before, but a good agent can help position your application strategically and find companies more likely to approve you.
Life Insurance Policies Easier to Qualify For
If you’ve been denied life insurance with traditional policies, consider these options:
Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance:
No medical exam or health questions; approval is guaranteed. However, premiums are higher and coverage amounts are typically lower.
Simplified Issue Life Insurance:
There is no medical exam but it includes a short health questionnaire. Easier to qualify for than fully underwritten policies.
Group Life Insurance:
Offered through employers or associations, often with minimal health screening.
Life Insurance Companies That Are More Flexible with Health Conditions
Here are several insurers known for working with individuals facing health challenges:
Mutual of Omaha:
Offers guaranteed and simplified issue policies; known for lenient underwriting for seniors and those with health issues.
AIG (American General):
Provides guaranteed issue options and competitive rates for higher-risk applicants.
Transamerica:
Transamerica offers simplified issue policies with higher coverage amounts and flexible guidelines.
Gerber Life:
Specializes in guaranteed issue policies for older applicants or those with medical conditions.
Prudential:
Prudential is very well known for flexible underwriting, especially for conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes when well-managed.
The Importance of Pre-Screening and Risk Assessment
One of the best ways to avoid a denial is to work with an experienced life insurance agent who offers pre-screening or risk assessments. Here’s how it helps:
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Confidential health review: Share your health history privately.
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Match you with the right insurer: Agents know which companies are more accepting of certain health conditions.
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Minimize surprises: Understand likely outcomes before submitting an application.
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Save time and frustration: Focus your efforts on companies that fit your unique situation.
How to Apply for Life Insurance with Medical Conditions – YouTube Video
Our Final Thoughts – Denied Life Insurance
A life insurance denial isn’t the end of the road. With the right approach, you can find coverage that meets your
needs. By understanding why you were denied, exploring alternative policies, and working with a knowledgeable independent agent to pre-screen, you can increase your chances of approval.
Ready to get started? Contact us today and learn about all your options so you can re-apply and get approved. We can run a simple risk assessment to help get you pointed in the right direction.
All the best,
Jack Venturi
