Principal, LifeNet Insurance Solutions, Redmond, WA
Yes. However, the first item that underwriters will look at is build in determining your health category. Some carriers are more lenient than others, while at least one carrier has no hard and fast rules when it comes to build. In addition, some smaller policies don't even ask the question. Bottom line: speak with an independent life insurance agent that is familiar with these types of issues.
Perhaps. How are you defining overweight? If someone is obese, it is possible you will be declined coverage. You do have options with carriers who do not ask the ht/wt question however you will be limited on the death benefit you can apply for.
Other questions which will go along with someone being overweight:
Do you see your doctor regularly?
Diabetes is a common result of being overweight. Have you been told you have or do not have Diabetes?
Blood Pressure and Cholesterol readings
I agree with Lenny, speak with your agent/broker, provide as much information you can so an underwriter may be consulted prior to an application.
Most people can get life insurance when they are overweight.
If your weight falls in the morbidly obese category, and if you are under age 45, it is harder to find coverage than when you are older, but there are a few options.
Those whose BMI (body mass index) is in the obese range will have more choices. Contrary to what generally applies to those with normal weight, sometimes a No Exam policy can be the least expensive choice for obese individuals. Not having to take an exam can also be helpful if the overweight person has not seen a doctor in a while, as it takes away the risk of the blood test showing high blood sugar, high cholesterol, or other labs sometimes associated with excess weight.
No matter which route you go, consulting an agency that carries a variety of products can be helpful, so that you can be matched up with the one that has your best price. Don't neglect to inform your agent of any weight lost in the past year, as most companies will add back half of that to your current weight, when determining your rate class.
That is a great question! Being overweight definitely increases your risk of having serious health issues, so insurers are definitely going to pay more attention to your application. Fortunately, there are several companies that do not ask about your weight, ( though they will ask about weight related diseases, like diabetes and hypertension) and in a worst case scenario, several that don't ask any questions at all. If you contact a good independent agent (one not tied to a single brand name) we can walk you through finding a policy that fits you, and is affordable. Thank you for asking!
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Other questions which will go along with someone being overweight:
Do you see your doctor regularly?
Diabetes is a common result of being overweight. Have you been told you have or do not have Diabetes?
Blood Pressure and Cholesterol readings
I agree with Lenny, speak with your agent/broker, provide as much information you can so an underwriter may be consulted prior to an application.
If your weight falls in the morbidly obese category, and if you are under age 45, it is harder to find coverage than when you are older, but there are a few options.
Those whose BMI (body mass index) is in the obese range will have more choices. Contrary to what generally applies to those with normal weight, sometimes a No Exam policy can be the least expensive choice for obese individuals. Not having to take an exam can also be helpful if the overweight person has not seen a doctor in a while, as it takes away the risk of the blood test showing high blood sugar, high cholesterol, or other labs sometimes associated with excess weight.
No matter which route you go, consulting an agency that carries a variety of products can be helpful, so that you can be matched up with the one that has your best price. Don't neglect to inform your agent of any weight lost in the past year, as most companies will add back half of that to your current weight, when determining your rate class.