Diabetes is the most common complication carrier underwriters see — and the pricing difference between controlled and uncontrolled diabetes is enormous, which makes carrier choice everything.
How carriers actually rate diabetes
- Controlled Type 2 (oral meds, stable A1C): routinely qualifies for simplified issue at standard-ish rates — the questionnaires usually ask about insulin, complications and hospitalizations.
- Insulin-dependent: many simplified-issue carriers still accept; a few decline or load heavily.
- With complications (neuropathy, kidney, amputation, frequent hospitalization): simplified issue doors mostly close — guaranteed issue remains.
- Type 1: fewer simplified-issue options; guaranteed issue is the reliable fallback.
The shopping rule that matters
Health-questionnaire wording varies absurdly between carriers — one asks ‘have you ever used insulin?’ while another asks ‘in the past 24 months?’. For any diabetic applicant, an independent broker who can see multiple carriers’ questions finds acceptance and price the direct-to-consumer ads never will.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can diabetics get final expense insurance?
Yes — most controlled Type 2 diabetics qualify for simplified issue, and insulin-dependent applicants still have multiple carrier options. Complications narrow the field toward guaranteed issue.
Do diabetic applicants pay more?
Usually modestly on simplified issue — controlled diabetes often rates near standard. The bigger variable is carrier choice: questionnaires differ enough that identical diabetics get quoted 30–50% apart.
Will insulin use disqualify me?
Not at most carriers — some simplified-issue plans accept insulin-dependent applicants, a few ask instead about complications and hospitalizations. Broker-assisted shopping finds the lenient questionnaires.
What if I’ve been hospitalized for diabetes recently?
Recent complications push most simplified-issue doors shut for 12–24 months; guaranteed issue remains available anytime. Re-shop simplified issue once the hospitalization ages.