Does nicotine use affect life insurance rates?

Yes, most life insurance companies classify nicotine users as higher risk, leading to increased premiums. However, some insurers offer more lenient rates depending on the type and frequency of use.

Can I get life insurance as a nicotine user?

Yes, nicotine users can still qualify for life insurance. LifeStein.com works with multiple carriers to find the best possible rates for those who use cigarettes, dip, vapes, cigars, or marijuana.

Do all insurers treat nicotine the same way?

No, different insurers have varying policies on nicotine use. Some classify all nicotine users as smokers, while others may offer non-smoker rates for users of smokeless tobacco, vapes, or occasional marijuana.

What’s the best way to find affordable life insurance as a nicotine user?

The best way is to work with an independent agency like LifeStein.com that has access to multiple carriers and can match you with the most lenient insurer for your specific nicotine use.

Can I get non-smoker rates if I quit nicotine?

Yes, many insurers allow you to reapply for non-smoker rates after quitting nicotine for a certain period, typically 12 months or more.

Do medical exams test for nicotine?

Yes, most life insurance medical exams include a urine or blood test to detect nicotine or cotinine, a byproduct of nicotine.

Can I lie about nicotine use on my life insurance application?

No, lying about nicotine use can lead to policy denial or cancellation if discovered through medical exams or claim investigations.

Which life insurance companies are best for nicotine users?

Some insurers like John Hancock, Prudential, and Mutual of Omaha offer more lenient underwriting for certain nicotine products. LifeStein.com can help you find the best match.

How can I apply for life insurance as a nicotine user?

You can apply through LifeStein.com by filling out a quick quote request. Our experts will match you with the best life insurance policy available and send you a quote within 24 business hours.

Does Nicotine Affect Life Insurance Rates?

mattmims
Mar 4
3 min read

Does Nicotine Hurt Your Life Insurance Rate

Quick Answer:

Yes, most nicotine products—including cigarettes, dip, vapes, and cigars—can impact life insurance rates. However, each product affects your classification differently. If you use nicotine and need life insurance, LifeStein.com can help you find the best rates with carriers that offer more lenient underwriting. Get a quote now. LifeStein.com will find the best policy in the market for you and will send it to within 24 business hours.

If you zyn, click here to request the best insurance quote in the market.

How Life Insurance Companies View Nicotine Use

Life insurance companies assess risk based on health and lifestyle factors. Nicotine use is a major consideration because it can increase health risks, leading to higher premiums. Carriers generally classify nicotine users in one of these ways:

Smoker Rates: The highest-priced premiums, often applied to cigarette users and some other nicotine products.
Non-Smoker Rates: The lowest-priced premiums, given to those who don’t use nicotine or who use approved products under certain conditions.
Tobacco/Nicotine User Rates: A middle-tier pricing structure that some insurers use for vapers, dip users, or occasional marijuana smokers.

Each insurer has different rules, so working with an expert like LifeStein.com ensures you find the best classification.

How Different Nicotine Products Impact Your Rates

1. Cigarettes

Impact on Rates: Almost always leads to smoker rates, which can be 2-3 times higher than non-smoker rates.
Underwriting Notes: Carriers consider frequency, and most classify any cigarette use within the past year as a smoker.
Best Options: Some companies offer more competitive smoker rates or allow conversion to non-smoker rates after a period of cessation.

2. Chewing Tobacco & Dip

Impact on Rates: Some insurers treat it like smoking; others may offer non-smoker rates.
Underwriting Notes: Because smokeless tobacco doesn’t impact the lungs, some carriers are more lenient.
Best Options: Insurers like John Hancock and Prudential sometimes offer non-smoker rates to dip users.

3. Vaping & E-Cigarettes

Impact on Rates: Usually classified as smoker rates, though a few carriers may offer a middle-tier category.
Underwriting Notes: The long-term health effects of vaping are still debated, so most insurers treat it like smoking.
Best Options: Some insurers differentiate between nicotine and non-nicotine vapes.

4. Marijuana (Weed) Use

Impact on Rates: Depends on frequency and reason for use (medical vs. recreational).
Underwriting Notes: Occasional recreational users may qualify for non-smoker rates, while daily users are more likely to get smoker rates.
Best Options: Some insurers, like Mutual of Omaha and Lincoln Financial, offer competitive rates for marijuana users.

How to Get the Best Life Insurance Rates as a Nicotine User

Work with an Independent Agency – LifeStein.com works with multiple insurers to find the best rates for nicotine users.
Be Honest About Your Use – Lying on an application can result in denial of claims or policy cancellation.
Consider Term Conversions – Some policies allow smokers to switch to non-smoker rates after quitting for a set period.
Take a Medical Exam – If you're in good health aside from nicotine use, you may qualify for better pricing.

Get a Quote Today

Nicotine use doesn’t mean you have to overpay for life insurance. LifeStein.com specializes in finding policies for nicotine users at the best possible rates. Get a free quote today.

Reach out to the owner of LifeStein.com, Matt Mims, at his direct number at (601)-218-7854.