Best Life Insurance for Smokers in 2024 (Your Guide to the Top 10 Companies)
Prudential, Banner Life, and AIG offer the best life insurance for smokers, starting at just $45 a month. These companies provide competitive rates and flexible policies tailored to smokers' needs, ensuring affordability and comprehensive coverage for those seeking reliable financial security.
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Justin Wright
Licensed Insurance Agent
Justin Wright has been a licensed insurance broker for over 9 years. After graduating from Southeastern Seminary with a Masters in Philosophy, Justin started his career as a professor, teaching Philosophy and Ethics. Later, Justin obtained both his Property & Casualty license and his Life and Health license and began working for State Farm and Allstate. In 2020, Justin began working as an i...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Sep 19, 2024
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Our life insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different life insurance companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about life insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything life insurance-related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by life insurance experts.
UPDATED: Sep 19, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right life insurance coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident life insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one life insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our life insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different life insurance companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
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Full Coverage for Smokers
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163 reviewsCompany Facts
Full Coverage for Smokers
A.M. Best Rating
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163 reviewsThe top picks for the best life insurance for smokers are Prudential, Banner Life, and AIG. These companies stand out for their accommodating policies towards smokers.
Smokers face higher premiums due to the increased risks associated with tobacco use, but these providers offer competitive options that can help mitigate costs. Learn more in our complete “Best Life Insurance Companies.”
Our Top 10 Company Picks: Best Life Insurance for Smokers
| Company | Rank | Multi-Policy Discount | A.M. Best | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | #1 | 15% | A+ | Competitive Rates | Prudential |
 | #2 | 10% | A+ | Competitive Rates | Banner Life |
 | #3 | 12% | A | Flexible Underwriting | AIG |
 | #4 | 8% | A | High-Risk Individuals | Transamerica |
 | #5 | 14% | A+ | Affordable Premiums | Protective Life |
 | #6 | 10% | A+ | Comprehensive Policy | Lincoln Financial |
 | #7 | 15% | A+ | Competitive Rates | Mutual of Omaha |
 | #8 | 11% | A+ | Premium Discounts | John Hancock |
 | #9 | 13% | A+ | Customer Service | Pacific Life |
 | #10 | 9% | A | Competitive Rates | SBLI |
Understanding these options can empower smokers to make informed decisions about their life insurance, securing their family’s financial future while accommodating their lifestyle.
If you’re looking to protect your family’s future at a low cost, enter your ZIP code above to buy affordable whole life insurance prices with our free quote comparison tool.
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#1 – Prudential: Top Overall Pick
Pros
- Competitive Multi-Policy Discount: Prudential offers a 15% discount for bundling multiple policies.
- Strong Financial Rating: Prudential holds an A+ rating from A.M. Best, indicating financial stability.
- Broad Range of Coverage: Offers various insurance products suitable for different needs. Find out more in our guide titled “Prudential Life Insurance Company Review.”
Cons
- Higher Premiums for Riskier Profiles: Rates can escalate for individuals with high-risk lifestyles.
- Complex Policy Options: Some customers may find their range of options overwhelming.
#2 – Banner Life: Best for Competitive Rates
Pros
- Sizable Multi-Policy Discount: Offers a 10% discount for multiple policies.
- Top-Notch Financial Stability: Maintains an A+ rating with A.M. Best. See more details in our guide titled “Banner Life Insurance Company Review.”
- Flexible Term Life Options: Known for flexible term life policies that cater to a range of needs.
Cons
- Less Brand Recognition: This may not be as widely recognized as other insurers.
- Limited Additional Benefits: Fewer perks compared to larger insurers.
#3 – AIG: Best for Flexible Underwriting
Pros
- Flexible Underwriting: Accommodates a wider range of customer profiles, including those with higher risks.
- Decent Multi-Policy Discount: 12% discount for bundling policies. More information is available about this provider in our “AIG Life Insurance Review.”
- Diverse Financial Products: Offers a wide array of financial and insurance products.
Cons
- Lower Financial Rating: Holds an A rating from A.M. Best, slightly lower than competitors.
- Complex Claims Process: Some customers report a complex claims process.
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#4 – Transamerica: Best for High-Risk Individuals
Pros
- Specializes in High-Risk Individuals: Offers coverage for individuals often declined elsewhere.
- Moderate Multi-Policy Discount: Provides an 8% discount on bundling policies.
- Extensive Experience: Long-standing reputation in the insurance industry. Read up on the “Transamerica Life Insurance Review” for more information.
Cons
- Inconsistent Customer Service: Reports of varying service quality.
- Higher Policy Costs: Premiums can be higher, particularly for high-risk profiles.
#5 – Protective Life: Best for Affordable Premiums
Pros
- High Multi-Policy Discount: Offers a 14% discount for multiple policies. Check out insurance savings in our guide titled “Protective Life Insurance Review.”
- Competitive Premiums: Known for more affordable premium rates across many policies.
- Strong Financial Health: Holds an A+ rating from A.M. Best, ensuring reliability.
Cons
- Limited Coverage Options: Fewer unique coverage options compared to larger insurers.
- Delayed Claim Processing: Some reports of slow claims processing.
#6 – Lincoln Financial: Best for Comprehensive Policy
Pros
- Comprehensive Policy Options: Offers a wide range of insurance products covering extensive needs.
- Decent Discount on Multiple Policies: 10% discount for bundling various policies. Discover more about offerings in our complete “How to Save Money When Buying Life Insurance.”
- Strong Industry Reputation: Well-established with a solid financial base.
Cons
- Higher-End Premiums: Premiums can be on the higher end for certain policies.
- Complex Product Offerings: Some customers find their offerings to be complex and detailed.
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#7 – Mutual of Omaha: Best for Competitive Pricing
Pros
- Generous Multi-Policy Discounts: 15% discount for bundling policies.
- Broad Range of Products: Offers a diverse range of products tailored to different demographic needs.
- High Financial Stability: Carries an A+ rating from A.M. Best. Access comprehensive insights into our guide titled “Mutual of Omaha Life Insurance Review.”
Cons
- Variable Customer Service: Customer service quality can vary.
- Premium Variability: Premiums can vary widely between policies.
#8 – John Hancock: Best for Premium Discounts
Pros
- Attractive Premium Discounts: Offers 11% discount on bundled policies. Delve into our evaluation of “John Hancock Life Insurance Company Review.”
- Focus on Healthy Living Discounts: Provides incentives and discounts for healthy habits.
- Solid Financial Rating: A+ rating from A.M. Best reinforces financial strength.
Cons
- Higher Costs for Smokers: Smokers may find premiums significantly higher.
- Limited High-Risk Options: Fewer options are available for high-risk individuals.
#9 – Pacific Life: Best for Customer Service
Pros
- Strong Customer Service Focus: Known for excellent customer support and service.
- Good Multi-Policy Discount: 13% discount for bundling different policies.
- Robust Financial Standing: Holds an A+ rating from A.M. Best. Unlock details in our guide titled “Pacific Life Insurance Review.”
Cons
- Premium Costs on Higher Side: Premiums can be higher than average.
- Less Flexible Underwriting: This may not be as accommodating for complex health histories.
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#10 – SBLI: Best for Competitive Coverage
Pros
- Competitive Rate Offerings: Known for competitive rates, especially in simpler policy setups.
- Moderate Multi-Policy Discount: Offers a 9% discount on bundled policies. Discover a comparison in our guide titled “AIG vs. SBLI Life Insurance.”
- Solid Financial Stability: Holds an A rating from A.M. Best, indicating robust financial health.
Cons
- Less Coverage Flexibility: Offers fewer options for customization compared to others.
- Slower Application Process: The application process can be lengthy and detailed.
Comparative Insurance Coverage Rates by Company
Understanding the coverage rates offered by various insurance companies can help individuals choose the right policy based on their budget and coverage needs. Below is a detailed look at how different companies price their minimum and full coverage options.
Life Insurance Monthly Rates for Smokers by Coverage Level & Provider
| Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| AIG | $55 | $160 |
| Banner Life | $45 | $140 |
| John Hancock | $53 | $158 |
| Lincoln Financial | $52 | $155 |
| Mutual of Omaha | $49 | $148 |
| Pacific Life | $51 | $153 |
| Protective Life | $47 | $143 |
| Prudential | $50 | $150 |
| SBLI | $46 | $142 |
| Transamerica | $48 | $145 |
AIG provides minimum coverage starting at $55 and full coverage at $160. Banner Life offers more economical rates, with minimum coverage at $45 and full coverage at $140. John Hancock’s rates are slightly higher, with minimum coverage at $53 and full coverage at $158.
Lincoln Financial and Pacific Life offer competitive rates with minimum coverages at $52 and $51, and full coverages at $155 and $153, respectively. Mutual of Omaha and Prudential provide affordable options, pricing their minimum coverage at $49 and $50 and their full coverage at $148 and $150.
Protective Life also positions itself competitively with a minimum coverage of $47 and full coverage of $143. SBLI and Transamerica offer rates on the lower end, with SBLI’s minimum at $46 and full at $142, and Transamerica’s at $48 and $145.
Learn more: What is the minimum coverage amount for life insurance?
Can I Get Life Insurance Coverage if I Smoke
You can get life insurance for smokers, but it will likely be much more expensive than a standard life insurance policy. However, tobacco use is a proven health risk regarding life expectancy, so life insurance companies take smoking and tobacco consumption seriously.
Jeff Root Licensed Life Insurance Agent
How do you get life insurance for chewing tobacco use? It’s important to note that some life insurance companies might refuse to cover you if you smoke or have certain medical conditions such as COPD or diabetes. It’s crucial to be honest when disclosing your smoking habits to the insurance company, as lying might result in denial of coverage.
What Do Life Insurance Companies Consider “Smoking”
Tobacco use and smoking go hand-in-hand for most insurance companies. Most life insurance companies group the following in the “smoking” category:
- Cigarettes
- Vaping or E-cigarettes
- Bidis
- Cigars
- Pipes
- Hookahs
- Chewing Tobacco
- Snuff
- Dissolvable Tobacco
- Nicotine Patches, Lozenges, Gum, Inhalers, and Nose Sprays
- Heated Tobacco Products
You can get life insurance with marijuana use (read our “Best Life Insurance for Marijuana Users” for more information). Still, rates may be as high as those for smokers, especially if you’re a habitual user.
Some life insurance companies offer grace to individuals who are occasional cigar smokers. To qualify, you must smoke a cigar less often than once a month. Otherwise, you are considered a smoker.
Do All Insurance Companies Have the Same Standards for Smokers
Insurance companies handle applications differently. For example, some insurance companies may offer more lenience for certain individuals, while others may be more strict. Read more in our guide titled “Do life insurance companies test for drugs?“
For example, Prudential is often lenient for cigar smokers. If you have a life insurance policy with Prudential, you can smoke cigars less than once a month and get a non-smoker rate. Additionally, if you haven’t smoked for at least 12 months, you qualify as a non-smoker, even if you smoke a pipe, cigars, or chew tobacco.
Legal & General America, on the other hand, considers you a smoker if you’ve smoked cigarettes, pipes, or used smokeless tobacco, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, vape devices, or nicotine substitutes.
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Why Is Life Insurance for Smokers More Expensive
As stated previously, smoking decreases a person’s life expectancy. Because of this, life insurance companies increase a smoker’s life insurance rates because they are statistically less likely to pay for their whole life policy or more likely to die during their term life policy than a non-smoker.
While cigarette use is at an all-time low in the United States, many people still have smoking-related diseases. Life insurance companies will increase your rates to offset the cost of insuring you. See more details about how to get term life insurance quotes.
How Much Are Smokers’ Life Insurance Rates
In many cases, life insurance rates for smokers can be double or even triple what non-smokers pay for the same policy. For example, look at the table below, which shows a 20-year 500k term life policy.
Term Life Insurance Monthly Rates by Age, Gender, & Tobacco Use
| Age | Female Non-Smoker | Female Smoker | Male Non-Smoker | Male Smoker |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age: 25 | $13 | $19 | $15 | $23 |
| Age: 30 | $13 | $22 | $15 | $26 |
| Age: 35 | $15 | $24 | $18 | $30 |
| Age: 40 | $19 | $34 | $21 | $42 |
| Age: 45 | $23 | $48 | $27 | $59 |
| Age: 50 | $29 | $68 | $36 | $88 |
| Age: 55 | $38 | $98 | $51 | $134 |
| Age: 60 | $60 | $158 | $85 | $208 |
| Age: 65 | $97 | $258 | $145 | $324 |
Men and women in their 40s who smoke pay the most for life insurance when compared to their non-smoking counterparts. Still, term life insurance for smokers will be the cheapest option when compared to the cost of a permanent life insurance policy.
Will My Life Insurance Company Know if I Smoke
If you’re thinking about lying about smoking on health insurance applications, think again. You need to be as honest as possible when filling out a life insurance application. Life insurance companies can verify the validity of your statements using various methods.
One way a life insurance company could discover you’ve lied about smoking is via a medical exam. Here’s what to expect if you need a medical exam for life insurance.
When you provide the necessary blood and urine samples, the physician will find cotinine, a nicotine byproduct, in your system. In addition, life insurance companies can utilize the following to discern whether you smoke or use tobacco products:
- Doctor Records: Many life insurance companies request the medical records of anyone they want to insure. Nicotine use will be a part of your medical history if you’re a smoker.
- Pharmacy Databases: If you’ve ever used a smoke-cessation drug, your insurance company may discover this via your pharmaceutical records.
- Social Media: Life insurance companies find potential clients on social media. If you have videos or pictures of yourself smoking, your insurance company can use this as proof that you lied on your application.
- Your Voice: Some life insurance companies utilize specific techniques to determine whether you smoke by the sound of your voice.
Being as honest as possible on your life insurance application is important. Otherwise, your application could be denied, and you could end up without a policy. Learn more about what happens if you lie on your term life insurance application.
How Can I Find the Cheapest Life Insurance for Smokers
Finding the cheapest life insurance for cigar and cigarette smokers doesn’t always mean finding affordable rates. Because life insurance can be so much more expensive for smokers, you may be disappointed in the initial rates you receive from different companies.
Still, there are a few things you can do to get the best life insurance rates possible as a smoker:
- Compare Quotes: Consider quotes and policies from multiple companies before you make a coverage decision.
- Bundle Insurance Policies: Purchase life insurance with a company you already have an insurance policy with. Often you can bundle life insurance with home or auto insurance for more affordable rates.
- Get Re-rated: If you’ve stopped smoking, ask if your life insurance company will re-rate you for a new policy.
It’s important to try and get the most affordable life insurance rates as a smoker since you’ll be paying them for months and years to come. Find out how life insurance works.
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Case Studies: Best Life Insurance for Smokers
Selecting the right life insurance is essential for smokers, who face higher premiums due to increased health risks. The following case studies, based on real-world scenarios, illustrate how Prudential, Banner Life, and AIG meet the unique needs of smokers effectively.
- Case Study #1 – Flexible Policy With Prudential: John, a casual smoker, was concerned about high premiums. Prudential offered him a life insurance policy that recognized his infrequent smoking habit, resulting in lower premiums than typical smoker rates.
- Case Study #2 – Tailored Terms From Banner Life: Sarah, who had recently quit smoking, needed life insurance. Banner Life provided a policy that offered reduced rates after recognizing her one year of being smoke-free, adjusting her premiums to reflect her lower risk.
- Case Study #3 – Comprehensive Coverage by AIG: Mark, a long-time smoker with health concerns, struggled to find affordable life insurance. AIG offered him a policy with comprehensive coverage that took into account his specific health issues, ensuring he received the protection he needed without exorbitant costs.
These scenarios underscore the importance of choosing life insurance companies that offer flexible and comprehensive options for smokers, ensuring they receive fair treatment and adequate coverage.
Learn more by reading our guide: Life Insurance Rate Factors
The Bottom Line: Life Insurance for Smokers
Smokers can purchase life insurance, but rates may not be as affordable as they are for non-smokers. Often, smokers pay double and even triple what non-smokers pay for a term or whole life insurance policy. In addition, some smokers may need life insurance for high-risk individuals.
When you apply for life insurance, be honest about your smoking. Otherwise, life insurance companies will decline your application. You can get lower rates for life insurance if you compare quotes, bundle life insurance with other insurance policies, and get re-rated if you’ve stopped smoking for at least 12 months.
Discover cheap quotes for life insurance by entering your ZIP code into our free quote comparison tool below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can life insurance companies deny coverage if you smoke?
Certain life insurance companies may refuse to provide life insurance for a smoker. If you are accepted as a policyholder, be prepared to face significantly higher premiums for your coverage.
For additional details, explore our comprehensive resource titled “Getting Life Insurance.”
How much does life insurance cost if you smoke?
Often, as a smoker, you can expect to pay double or even triple the amount for life insurance compared to what non-smokers are charged for similar smoke insurance coverage.
What if I lie about smoking on my application?
If you are dishonest about smoking on your life insurance application, a life insurance company is likely to refuse coverage. This highlights the important link between smoking and life insurance.
Our quote comparison tool below will allow you to shop for affordable life insurance rates from the top companies near you — just enter your ZIP code to get started.
Are there any alternatives for smokers who cannot afford traditional life insurance?
If traditional life insurance proves too costly for smokers because of elevated premiums, other options exist.
These alternatives, such as simplified issue or guaranteed issue life insurance policies, feature more forgiving underwriting criteria but might provide lesser coverage amounts. This can be an essential consideration when looking for health insurance for smokers.
Is it advisable for smokers to work with an insurance agent or broker?
Collaborating with an insurance agent or broker can be advantageous for those looking for smoker life insurance. These professionals can assist in understanding the intricacies of the insurance landscape, compare plans from various providers, and help secure the most appropriate coverage at the most favorable rates.
To learn more, explore our comprehensive resource on “Life Insurance Savings Account: What You Need To Know.”
What are the best life insurance companies for smokers?
Prudential, Banner Life, and AIG are highly regarded as the best life insurance companies for smokers, offering competitive rates and tailored policies.
Where can I find affordable life insurance for smokers?
Companies like Prudential and Banner Life offer affordable life insurance policies for smokers, focusing on providing value without compromising on coverage.
Which providers offer the best health insurance for smokers?
For health insurance, look for providers that offer programs aimed at smoking cessation and do not penalize tobacco use as heavily in premiums.
What is the best life insurance for tobacco users?
Prudential and AIG are among the top choices for tobacco users, offering flexible policies that cater to various forms of tobacco consumption.
To find out more, explore our guide titled “Best Life Insurance for Smokeless Tobacco Users.”
Where can I get the best term life insurance for smokers?
Banner Life and Prudential are known for offering the best term life insurance for smokers, balancing costs with comprehensive coverage.
Which companies provide the best whole-life insurance for smokers?
For whole life insurance, look to companies like Prudential, which offers policies that provide long-term value and benefits for smokers.
Can a smoker get life insurance?
Yes, smokers can get life insurance, though the premiums may be higher due to the increased risk associated with smoking.
Can health insurance companies test for nicotine?
Yes, health insurance companies can test for nicotine during the underwriting process, often using blood or urine tests.
To learn more, explore our comprehensive resource on “Life Insurance by Substance Use.”
Can you lie about smoking for life insurance?
Lying about smoking on a life insurance application is highly discouraged as it can lead to a denial of a claim or cancellation of the policy.
Where can I find cheap life insurance for smokers?
Companies like SBLI and Protective Life often offer cheaper life insurance options for smokers, focusing on more affordable premiums.
How can I get cheap term life insurance for smokers?
Look for term life policies from companies like Banner Life, which offers competitive rates specifically designed for smokers.
Do cigar smokers pay more for life insurance?
Yes, cigar smokers often face higher premiums than non-smokers, though some companies offer better rates if cigar use is infrequent.
Access comprehensive insights into our guide titled “Compare Types of Life Insurance Coverage.”
Do e-cigarettes raise your life insurance premium?
Yes, many insurers consider e-cigarette use similar to smoking and may increase premiums accordingly.
How do health insurance companies know if you smoke?
Health insurance companies may ask you to declare your smoking status, and they can confirm this through medical exams or tests for nicotine.
How do life insurance companies check if you smoke?
Life insurance companies typically use cotinine tests during medical exams to determine if you smoke, looking for nicotine byproducts in your system.
Explore affordable life insurance options by entering your ZIP code below into our free comparison tool today.
Your life insurance quotes are always free.
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Justin Wright
Licensed Insurance Agent
Justin Wright has been a licensed insurance broker for over 9 years. After graduating from Southeastern Seminary with a Masters in Philosophy, Justin started his career as a professor, teaching Philosophy and Ethics. Later, Justin obtained both his Property & Casualty license and his Life and Health license and began working for State Farm and Allstate. In 2020, Justin began working as an i...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about life insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything life insurance-related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by life insurance experts.
