Should I use a specialist broker for pre-existing conditions?

Strongly recommended. Specialist brokers know which providers are most sympathetic to specific conditions. They search 10+ providers simultaneously, present your application in the best light, and often secure terms that would not be available if you applied directly. Most brokers charge no fee (they are paid by the insurer).

Life Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions UK 2026 | Getting Cover

Key Facts: Life Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions

Life insurance with pre-existing conditions is available from many UK providers. Most conditions can be covered, though premiums and terms may vary.

-Most pre-existing conditions can be covered — outright refusal is rare for common conditions

-Premiums may be higher (loaded) to reflect additional risk

-Some policies may include exclusions for specific conditions rather than declining entirely

-Specialist brokers can find providers who are most sympathetic to your specific condition

-The FCA requires insurers to treat customers fairly regardless of health status

-Common coverable conditions include diabetes, anxiety, high blood pressure, asthma and cancer history

Can You Get Life Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions?

Yes. Life insurance with pre-existing conditions is available from most UK insurers. Having a medical condition does not automatically mean you will be refused cover. In fact, outright refusal is relatively rare for common conditions.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) requires all UK insurers to treat customers fairly. This means insurers must make reasonable adjustments and cannot refuse cover without a legitimate risk-based reason.

The key is finding the right insurer for your specific condition. Different providers have very different approaches to medical underwriting. A condition that triggers a significant premium loading with one insurer may be accepted at standard rates by another.

Common pre-existing conditions that are regularly covered include:

Mental Health (Anxiety, Depression)

Covered by most providers. Mild to moderate conditions with stable treatment often have minimal premium impact. See our <a href='/life-insurance-with-anxiety'>anxiety guide</a> for detailed information.

Diabetes (Type 1 & Type 2)

Covered by most providers with a premium loading. Well-controlled diabetes with good HbA1c levels is viewed more favourably. See our <a href='/life-insurance-diabetes'>diabetes guide</a>.

High BMI / Obesity

Most providers cover BMI up to 40, some up to 45+. Premium loadings increase with BMI. See our <a href='/life-insurance-for-overweight'>overweight guide</a>.

Cancer History

Cover is available after treatment completion, typically after a waiting period of 2-5 years depending on the cancer type and stage. Remission duration is a key factor.

Heart Conditions

Heart attacks, angina, stents and bypass surgery can all be covered, usually with premium loadings. Time since the event and current cardiac health are assessed.

How Pre-Existing Conditions Affect Your Application

When you apply for life insurance with pre-existing conditions, insurers typically respond in one of four ways:

Standard Terms

Your condition has no impact on premiums. Common for mild, well-controlled conditions like mild asthma, mild anxiety on low-dose medication, or slightly elevated BMI.

Premium Loading

Cover is offered but at a higher premium (e.g. +25%, +50%, +100%). This is the most common outcome for moderate conditions. The loading reflects the insurer's assessment of additional risk.

Exclusion

Cover is offered at standard or loaded premiums, but claims related to your specific condition are excluded. For example, a cancer survivor might get cover that excludes cancer-related death.

Decline

The insurer will not offer cover. This is relatively rare for common conditions but can happen with very severe, unstable or terminal conditions. A specialist broker can usually find alternative providers.

Postponement

The insurer defers the decision, asking you to reapply in 6-12 months. Common when a condition is newly diagnosed or recently treated, and the insurer wants to see stability.

How to Apply for Life Insurance with a Pre-Existing Condition

Document Your Condition

Gather details of your diagnosis, current treatment, medication, GP name and any hospital visits. Know your latest test results (e.g. HbA1c for diabetes, blood pressure readings, BMI).

Contact a Specialist Broker

A broker experienced with pre-existing conditions knows which providers are most likely to offer favourable terms for your specific condition. This saves time and avoids unnecessary declines.

Complete the Application Honestly

Declare all conditions, medications and treatments fully. Non-disclosure is the most common reason for claims being rejected. Honest applications are rarely refused outright.

Await Underwriting Decision

The insurer may request a GP report or medical examination. This typically takes 2-6 weeks. Complex cases may take longer. Your broker can chase progress.

Review and Compare Offers

If multiple providers are approached, compare the terms offered. Look at premiums, exclusions and any special conditions. Your broker should explain each offer clearly.

Tips for Getting the Best Cover

Follow these strategies to find the best life insurance with pre-existing conditions:

Use a specialist broker — Never apply directly to one insurer. Brokers search 10+ providers and know which are best for your condition.
Demonstrate good management — Regular GP visits, medication compliance and stable test results all help secure better terms.
Apply when stable — If possible, apply when your condition is well-controlled rather than during a flare-up or treatment change.
Consider term life insurance — Even with premium loadings, term cover remains affordable for most people.
Check condition-specific guides — See our guides for anxiety, diabetes, high BMI, and smokers.
Business owners — If you run a limited company, relevant life insurance through the business is more tax-efficient.

Trusted Sources & Further Reading

This life insurance with pre-existing conditions guide references:

ABI Access to Insurance — Industry framework for applicants with pre-existing conditions
FCA Pure Protection Market Study — Protection gaps among vulnerable consumer groups
MoneyHelper — Getting life insurance with a medical condition
BMA Medical Disclosure Guidance — Your rights on medical information for insurance
ABI Claims Data 2024 — Non-disclosure is the most common reason for declined claims
FCA Vulnerability Guidance — Protections for customers with health conditions
EHRC Disability Discrimination Guidance — Your rights under the Equality Act
NHS Health Conditions A-Z — Medical information on conditions
Aviva Claims Report 2025 — 97.9% of protection claims paid in 2024

Life Insurance Pre-existing Conditions FAQs

What counts as a pre-existing condition for life insurance?

Any medical condition diagnosed before you apply for life insurance. This includes chronic conditions (diabetes, asthma, heart disease), mental health conditions (anxiety, depression), past conditions (cancer in remission), and ongoing treatments. Even conditions you consider minor should be declared.

Can I be refused life insurance for a pre-existing condition?

Outright refusal is relatively rare for common conditions. Most insurers will offer cover with a premium loading or exclusion rather than declining entirely. For very severe, unstable or terminal conditions, some providers may decline, but a specialist broker can usually find alternatives.

Do I have to tell my insurer about all medical conditions?

Yes. You must declare all conditions, past and present, that the application asks about. This includes conditions you consider minor or that are well-controlled. Non-disclosure is the most common reason for claims being rejected, which would leave your family with nothing.

How much more does life insurance cost with pre-existing conditions?

Life Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions UKYour Options Explained