How Does my Health Affect my Eligibility for Disability Income Insurance Coverage?

When insurance companies consider insuring an applicant they evaluate that applicant's age, health history, lifestyle habits, and current health status, among other things to determine the risk they would incur by insuring the applicant.

What You Should Know

Underwriting classes are determined by a number of factors including, but not limited to: 

• health history
• height to weight ratios
• family history

Some of the health issues insurance companies will pay particular attention to include: 

• tobacco use
• alcoholism
• mental health
• history of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes

The company will also consider your driving history and if you participate in hazardous activities or are employed in a dangerous vocation.

If your current health, health history or vocation makes you a higher risk to the insurance company, you may still be able to secure coverage, but it is likely to come with higher premiums or exclusion riders.

What You Can Do

One of the best things you can do to improve your insurability is to quit smoking. Additionally, to facilitate the underwriting process, you should promptly schedule your medical exam, and complete all application questions thoroughly and promptly.

Contact us if you have questions or concerns about the underwriting process.