Introduction
People living with diabetes face extra hurdles shopping for life insurance. Insurers often see diabetes as a higher risk, which can make policies tougher to get and more expensive. But, with better treatments and smart management, many diabetics still qualify for quality coverage and low rates. Choosing the right provider can help you protect your family without breaking your budget. Here’s a look at how insurers evaluate diabetes, the best companies for affordable diabetic life insurance in 2025, and tips for getting the most value.
Key Factors Affecting Life Insurance Rates for Diabetics
Photo by Markus Winkler
Insurance underwriters weigh several factors when evaluating applicants with diabetes. Some people worry they won’t qualify, but understanding how these details impact rates helps you find policies that offer a fair deal:
- Type of Diabetes: Type 2, especially with good control, typically gets better rates than Type 1.
- A1C and Blood Sugar Control: Stable blood sugar and A1C levels under 7 can open the door to better policies.
- Age at Diagnosis: Later onset is often less risky to insurers.
- Treatment Plan: Pills, insulin, or even lifestyle changes only—how you manage matters.
- Related Conditions: Heart issues, kidney problems, or nerve damage can raise premiums.
- Health Habits: Nonsmokers who exercise and maintain a healthy weight usually qualify for savings.
- Medical History Review: Regular doctor visits and proactive care show you take control of your health.
Taking steps to keep records up to date and showing a healthy routine can nudge insurers toward lower premiums. For a deeper breakdown of how rates are determined, check out this life insurance guide for diabetics by Aflac.
Top Life Insurance Providers for Diabetics with Low Rates in 2025
Not all companies treat diabetes the same way. Some specialize in covering higher-risk applicants or offer unique support programs designed for diabetics. Here’s a side-by-side look at the top insurers balancing affordability, flexible coverage, and support in 2025.
Banner Life: Leading Term Life Rates for Well-Controlled Diabetes
Banner Life often stands out for people with well-managed Type 2 diabetes and even some Type 1 applicants. They tend to focus on stability over time, rewarding healthy routines and regular checkups.
Highlights:
- Competitive rates for well-controlled Type 2 diabetes.
- Willing to consider applicants diagnosed after age 30 or who show strong management.
- Discounts possible for excellent lab results and non-tobacco use.
- Quick application process with options for accelerated underwriting.
Banner Life policies work best for people who can document recent bloodwork and demonstrate active management, making it a top pick if your diabetes is under control.
Nationwide: Strong Ratings and Customizable Policies
Nationwide brings flexibility to life insurance shopping, giving diabetics a variety of policy types and support resources. Their risk assessment process accounts for how you manage diabetes, not just your diagnosis.
Key Features:
- Highly rated for customer service and financial stability.
- Multiple term, universal, and whole life options.
- Underwriting teams trained to work with chronic health conditions.
- Digital wellness tools and support available.
Nationwide’s approach can result in lower premiums, especially for those with a positive track record, making it a strong contender for diabetics who want policy options and reliable support.
John Hancock: Health Incentives and Supportive Programs
Few insurers match John Hancock’s commitment to supporting diabetics through its Aspire program. Aspire includes personal coaching, health monitoring, and lifestyle rewards to help people with diabetes improve their health—and save money on premiums.
What Sets Aspire Apart:
- Open to Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics.
- Digital health coaching, discounts on diabetes supplies, and access to the Vitality platform.
- Earn lower premiums for activity, healthy choices, and improved metrics.
- Backed by a solid reputation and strong financial ratings.
John Hancock recognizes that diabetes management isn’t one-size-fits-all. The Aspire program stands out for those looking for ongoing health support and flexible rates. More about their approach can be found on the John Hancock Aspire program page.
State Farm, AIG, Symetra, and Other Noteworthy Insurers
Several well-known companies provide affordable rates and specialized services for diabetics. Here’s a quick look at other major providers to consider:
- State Farm: Known for strong customer support and a range of policy types.
- AIG: Offers guaranteed issue products and often accepts people with Type 2 diabetes.
- Symetra: Competitive pricing for applicants with early diagnosis and evidence of steady improvement.
- Mutual of Omaha: Flexible underwriting, simplified issue options without a medical exam, and good support for older diabetic applicants.
- Ethos Life: Digital-first policies geared toward fast approvals, especially for younger people or those without complications.
- Foresters Financial: Offers member benefits and considers applicants with diabetes in different life stages. Learn more at Foresters' life insurance for diabetics.
- Aflac: Focuses on accessibility and offers no-medical exam options, helpful for people who want to skip lab tests. Learn about their policies at Aflac’s diabetic life insurance guide.
Each provider weighs diabetes history a little differently, so comparing quotes and features side by side can uncover hidden savings.
Conclusion
Shopping for life insurance as a diabetic doesn’t have to be discouraging. Today, with stronger medical understanding and practical support from top insurers, people with diabetes can secure affordable, dependable coverage. Preparing recent lab results, tracking medications, and asking focused questions can open the door to better rates and smarter policies. Take your time, collect the details, and pick a provider that respects your health journey while offering real value.
