Chewing Tobacco and Life Insurance – How Smokeless Tobacco Impacts Premiums
- mattmims
- Mar 16
- 4 min read
Can You Get Life Insurance If You Use Chewing Tobacco?
Yes! If you use chewing tobacco, you can still qualify for life insurance. However, your rates may be higher because most insurance companies classify chewing tobacco users as tobacco users, leading to smoker rates. The good news is that some insurers offer non-smoker rates for smokeless tobacco users.
Quick Solution: Get a Quote Now
If you’re looking for life insurance and use chewing tobacco, LifeStein.com can help you find the best rates. Get a free quote today!
How Does Chewing Tobacco Affect Life Insurance Rates?
Chewing tobacco, dip, snuff, and other forms of smokeless tobacco can significantly impact your life insurance premiums. Most life insurance companies categorize any tobacco or nicotine use as a tobacco user, which means you’ll likely pay the same rates as cigarette smokers.
However, some insurers differentiate between chewing tobacco and smoking, offering more affordable premiums. Finding the right insurer is key to saving money.
Real-Life Example: Saving Money with LifeStein
John, a 45-year-old construction business owner, had been using chewing tobacco for over 20 years. When he met with his financial planner to get a life insurance policy, he was shocked to find out that he was being charged smoker rates—almost double what he expected. The policy was far too expensive, and he felt stuck.
John then reached out to LifeStein.com, where we helped him find a life insurance company that offered non-smoker rates for chewing tobacco users. Instead of paying high smoker rates, John secured a $1 million policy at nearly half the cost quoted by his financial planner. By working with the right agency, John saved thousands of dollars while still protecting his family’s future.
Factors That Impact Your Premiums
Frequency of Use: Daily users may face higher rates.
Health Conditions: High blood pressure, heart disease, and other risks linked to tobacco use can increase premiums.
Insurance Company Policies: Some insurers charge smoker rates, while others offer non-smoker rates for chewing tobacco users.
Age and Gender: Younger applicants typically get better rates, while men may pay more than women due to higher risk factors.
Policy Type: Term life insurance is generally cheaper than whole life insurance, but coverage needs differ by individual.
Medical Exam Results: Elevated blood pressure, cholesterol levels, or nicotine in a urine test can affect your premium.
Which Life Insurance Companies Offer Non-Smoker Rates for Chewing Tobacco?
Not all insurers treat chewing tobacco users the same. Some companies charge smoker rates, while others may allow non-smoker rates. Here are some life insurance companies that may offer better rates for smokeless tobacco users:
Banner Life (Legal & General) – Offers non-smoker rates in some cases.
Protective Life – Competitive underwriting for chewing tobacco users.
Lincoln Financial – More lenient with smokeless tobacco.
Pacific Life – Potential for non-smoker classification.
Mutual of Omaha – Can be flexible depending on usage frequency.
Each carrier has different underwriting guidelines, so it’s important to shop around.
How to Get the Best Life Insurance Rates as a Chewing Tobacco User
1. Work with an Independent Agency
Agencies like LifeStein.com have access to multiple insurance companies and can help you find the best rates. Some insurers may charge smoker rates, while others offer better pricing.
2. Consider No-Exam Life Insurance
If you want a fast approval process, a no-medical-exam policy might be an option. However, these policies typically come with higher premiums.
3. Be Honest on Your Application
Never hide tobacco use on your life insurance application. Most companies require a medical exam or will check medical records. Lying can lead to policy denial or cancellation.
4. Compare Quotes from Multiple Insurers
Some companies classify chewing tobacco users as non-smokers, while others don’t. Getting quotes from multiple insurers ensures you find the best rates.
5. Improve Your Overall Health
Lowering your blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly can positively impact your life insurance premiums. Some insurers may reward healthier applicants with better rates.
6. Choose the Right Policy Type
While term life insurance is generally more affordable, whole life insurance can offer long-term benefits such as cash value accumulation. Discussing your needs with an expert at LifeStein.com can help you decide the best option.
Common Myths About Life Insurance and Chewing Tobacco
Myth #1: All Smokeless Tobacco Users Pay Smoker Rates
Some insurers offer non-smoker rates if you use chewing tobacco, so it’s worth shopping around.
Myth #2: You Can Quit Before Your Medical Exam to Get Non-Smoker Rates
Most insurers test for nicotine and look at past medical records. Some require you to be nicotine-free for at least 12 months to qualify for non-smoker rates.
Myth #3: You Won’t Qualify for Coverage if You Use Chewing Tobacco
While you may pay higher premiums, you can still get life insurance. Some insurers offer better rates than others.
Myth #4: Smokeless Tobacco Is Not a Health Risk
While it is less harmful than smoking cigarettes, chewing tobacco still poses health risks such as oral cancer, gum disease, and increased blood pressure, which insurers take into account when determining rates.
Additional Considerations for Chewing Tobacco Users
Policy Riders: Some insurers offer riders, like critical illness or disability riders, that can provide additional protection.
Term vs. Whole Life Insurance: Term policies are more affordable but expire, while whole life insurance lasts your entire life with a cash value component.
Family History Matters: If you have a history of cancer or heart disease, it could impact your premiums more than tobacco use alone.
Employer-Provided vs. Private Policies: Employer-provided life insurance may not offer enough coverage, making private policies a better long-term solution.
Health & Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoiding additional risk factors like excessive alcohol consumption or obesity can help you secure better rates.
Final Thoughts: Get the Best Life Insurance for Chewing Tobacco Users
Chewing tobacco impacts life insurance rates, but you still have options. Some companies offer non-smoker rates, so it’s crucial to compare policies. At LifeStein.com, we specialize in helping smokeless tobacco users find the best life insurance policies.
By working with an independent agency, comparing quotes, and improving your overall health, you can find affordable life insurance coverage that fits your needs.
Start Saving Today!
If you use chewing tobacco and want the best life insurance rates, don’t settle for smoker rates. Let LifeStein.com help you find the most competitive policy available.

Matt Mims
(601)-218-7854
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