Are you worried about getting a medical examination to get life insurance?
Guaranteed issue insurance requires that you make a call to an agent and fill out an application. An agent may contact your to verify you are not subject to disqualifying conditions and ensure you are getting the right amount.
So what's not great about that? High costs, low coverage amounts and "graded deaths benefits" all make it difficult to afford.
Let's suppose your policy has a Graded Benefit. In such a case, your beneficiaries get a refund of 110% on the premiums that you have paid. If you are killed by suicide or in an accident, your heirs get a full refund. Your beneficiaries would receive $100 to $110 if you paid $100 for premiums. The cause of death will vary.
Buying a traditional approach to insurance can save you money unless your health is severely compromised. If a 70-year old female purchases a guaranteed issue policy of life insurance with $20,000 coverage, her monthly cost could be $18,700. She could pay $12,400 per year for $20,000 in whole-life insurance.
For the same 60 year old, a 10-year policy of life insurance with ten-fold coverage would run about $60.
You will pay higher premiums. However, your beneficiaries would not be eligible for a complete death benefit until your policy is in force for a specified time. This can vary depending on the insurance company. This is what's known in insurance as "gradual benefits".
Individuals with pre-existing health conditions are not eligible for guaranteed issue insurance. Insurance policies are different from one insurer to another, but many may offer coverage for people with chronic conditions. Learn more about your options for people with pre-existing conditions.
One of the most costly ways to purchase life insurance is guaranteed acceptance. Look into other types of policies first, unless you have very serious medical conditions that would make it impossible for you to be accepted for another policy. An advisor or independent agent can help to shop between multiple companies. An experienced advisor can help you find the best price for your needs based on your medical history.
You can probably save substantial money by buying a more traditional approach, unless you have severe medical conditions that make purchasing other policies impossible. For example, a 70 year old female could pay $18,700 over 10 years for a guaranteed life insurance policy with $20,000 of coverage. Over ten years, a $20,000 life insurance policy would cost her $12,000.
For seniors, or those who cannot qualify for traditional life insurance but are at moderate health risk, simplified-issue life insurance is best. The coverage limits are slightly higher and require a complete medical questionnaire.
Coverage amounts for guaranteed issue life insurance are generally lower than traditional life insurance policies, ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the insurer. This is often intended to cover final expenses such as funeral costs.
Guaranteed issue life insurance can be a good option for individuals who have difficulty qualifying for traditional life insurance due to age or health issues. However, because of the higher premiums and limited coverage, it is important to consider whether it meets your financial goals and needs.
Eligibility typically depends on your age, with policies often available to individuals between the ages of 50 and 85. The requirements may vary by insurer, but medical underwriting is not part of the application process.