Can I get life insurance if I smoke or vape?
Answered by 8 licensed agents
The amount of the rate increase varies by insurance company, the type and frequency of nicotine use, your age, and your overall health. Some insurers have more favorable underwriting guidelines for occasional cigar smokers or certain vaping habits, while others classify all nicotine users similarly.
The most important thing is to be honest on the application. Insurance companies routinely test for nicotine during the underwriting process and may review medical records and prescription history. Providing accurate information helps ensure the policy is issued correctly and that your beneficiaries will not encounter problems if a claim is filed.
Even if you smoke or vape, there are usually multiple life insurance options available. Working with an independent agent who can compare several companies may help you find the most competitive rates for your situation.
Answered by Marc Frye on June 17, 2026
Agent Licensed in NV
For tobacco and nicotine products (including e-cigarettes and nicotine vaping), almost all insurers classify users at increased risk and charge higher premiums—often roughly double the non-smoker rate. To access lower non-smoker rates, most insurance companies require complete tobacco and nicotine abstinence for at least 12 consecutive months before applying, though a few insurers may require 3–5 years for their best pricing.
For marijuana and THC products, insurers generally do not apply smoker rates. Instead, premiums are typically tiered by usage frequency: occasional users (1–2 times per year) can often qualify for standard or even Preferred non-smoker rates, while daily users may face higher premiums—though still typically lower than tobacco smoker rates.
Answered by Shane Bullock on July 23, 2026
Broker Licensed in UT, AZ, FL & 9 other states
Answered by Jami Mead on July 23, 2026
Broker Licensed in OH
Answered by Milton Fregia on June 25, 2026
Broker Licensed in TX
Answered by Pamela Teaford on June 17, 2026
Agent Licensed in PA
Life insurance rates are based on risk assessment at its core. Since smoking may lead to significant health risks such as heart disease, cardiovascular disease, and cancer amongst other health issues, this is seen as a higher risk of insurability.
On average, long-term smokers are estimated to live 10 to 12 years less than individuals who have never smoked.
Answered by Jacob Hollingsworth on June 17, 2026
Broker Licensed in MN & MO
Answered by Stacey Dejo on June 17, 2026
Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 18 other states
Some companies underwrite differently as how much and if you are trying to quite
Answered by Lowell Ryals on June 25, 2026
Agent Licensed in MO
Tags: Eligibility Rates and Costs
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