term life insurance for ex and current smokers how

For instance, you could develop a new health condition while quitting smoking, which might result in higher rates. Or worse, you could pass away without a policy in place, leaving your dependents in a bind.

Smoking cigarettes among adults is at a record low of just 14% in the latest report of Surgeon General. But , 16 million Americans suffer from smoking-related diseases. You don't need to suffer from health issues or pay more expensive life insurance rates. Smoking cigarettes will typically lead to higher premiums when you purchase life insurance.

If you're a smoker, you're probably aware that it can impact your health. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Smoking accounts for 480,000 deaths (or 1 in 5 deaths).

A life insurance policy for the whole of your life can last for your whole life. Although the actual premiums for life insurance will typically be more expensive than rates for a term life insurance policy, This is the case especially for smokers. But, your cost remains the same as long as the policy remains in effect.

When filling out an application for life insurance, it is essential to be honest about all the information you provide. Life insurance companies offer myriad ways to confirm the information you've said on your application.

The most common verification method is a medical exam that typically involves taking urine and blood samples. These tests will detect the presence of cotinine, a byproduct of nicotine. It can also be found in hair and saliva samples. However, testing for cotinine isn't completely foolproof. Smokers could get past if they've not smoking for a one or two days.

If you're a person who smokes, do not give up on life insurance. If you're looking to quit smoking, have quit smoking and are struggling with your smoking habits, the life insurance policy can be a significant factor in your financial wellbeing.

How does smoking affect life insurance rates? People who smoke – even on rare occasions – pay more because smoking and tobacco use significantly increase the risk of dying younger than people who don't smoke.

If you plan to stop smoking now or recently quit smoking, a term life policy may be a good option to consider. By the time your policy matures, it could be years since your last cigarette. If you've been smoke-free for a prescribed number of years (usually at least 2-5 years), you can apply for a level term life insurance policy and likely get a much better premium for your term choice than you would if you were still a smoker.