Yes. People with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in the UK can generally obtain life insurance, though the terms and premiums will depend on how well the condition is managed, how long ago it was diagnosed, and whether any complications have developed. A diabetes diagnosis does not mean automatic decline.
How Insurers Assess Diabetes
Life insurance underwriting for diabetes involves a detailed assessment of the individual's specific circumstances. Insurers are not applying a blanket approach to all diabetic applicants. Key factors they consider include:
- Type of diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
- Age at diagnosis
- Current HbA1c level, a measure of blood sugar control over the preceding three months
- Current medication and treatment: diet-controlled, oral medication, or insulin
- Presence of any diabetic complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, or cardiovascular disease
- BMI and blood pressure
- General lifestyle factors including smoking status
Type 2 Diabetes and Life Insurance
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form in the UK and is generally viewed more favourably by insurers than Type 1. For those with well-controlled Type 2 diabetes, particularly where control is achieved through diet and lifestyle alone or simple oral medication, standard or near-standard terms may be available.
Where control is less stable, where the HbA1c is elevated, or where complications such as kidney disease or cardiovascular issues are present, a premium loading or specific exclusions may apply.
Type 1 Diabetes and Life Insurance
Type 1 diabetes involves more complex underwriting because it is an autoimmune condition requiring insulin and is present from an earlier age. That said, many insurers will offer cover to people with Type 1 diabetes who demonstrate good long-term management.
A younger applicant with a long history of Type 1 diabetes, consistently good HbA1c levels, and no complications may be offered cover at a loading above standard rates. The presence of any complications, particularly kidney disease or cardiovascular history, will significantly affect the terms available.
Why Using a Whole-of-Market Broker Matters
Different insurers take significantly different views of the same diabetes profile. One insurer may decline an application that another would accept at a modest loading. If you apply directly to a single insurer and are declined, that decline may be recorded and could affect future applications.
A whole-of-market broker can assess your situation and approach the most appropriate insurers for your specific profile, without triggering multiple formal applications. This is particularly valuable for applicants with health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get life insurance if I have Type 1 diabetes?
Yes, in many cases. The availability and cost of cover will depend on how well your diabetes is managed, your HbA1c levels, and whether you have any complications. A whole-of-market broker will be able to assess which insurers are most likely to offer you favourable terms.
Does a diabetes diagnosis affect an existing life insurance policy?
No. If you already have a life insurance policy in place and are subsequently diagnosed with diabetes, your existing policy terms are protected. You do not need to inform your insurer of a new diagnosis unless you have a specific duty to notify under your policy terms, which would be unusual for a term life policy.
Will my premiums increase if my diabetes gets worse?
Once a life insurance policy is in force at agreed premiums, the insurer cannot increase those premiums due to changes in your health during the policy term, for guaranteed premium policies. Your premiums are fixed at the point of application. However, if you apply for new or additional cover in the future, your current health status will be reassessed.
What HbA1c level do insurers prefer?
While specific thresholds vary between insurers, most prefer to see an HbA1c below 64 mmol/mol (8%). Well-controlled applicants with levels below 58 mmol/mol (7.5%) are generally viewed most favourably. Higher readings suggest poorer long-term control and will typically result in larger premium loadings.
Sources
- Diabetes UK: diabetes.org.uk
- Association of British Insurers: abi.org.uk
- NICE: Type 1 diabetes in adults: diagnosis and management (NG17)
- NICE: Type 2 diabetes in adults: management (NG28)
About the Author
Tanweer Hussain is the editor at TopQuote.co.uk. He oversees the editorial accuracy of all published content, with a particular focus on the factual detail relevant to UK protection insurance. TopQuote is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
This article is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Your individual circumstances will affect which options may be available to you. TopQuote.co.uk is a comparison and information service, not a financial adviser. Always seek independent financial advice from a regulated adviser before making any financial decisions.