Tobacco Use: The Ifs, Ands & Butts Of Underwriting

Shutterstock_120052930

Tobacco use is known to increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, lung diseases and cancer. It remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. More than 19% of U.S. adults reported current tobacco product use.

When applying for life insurance, carriers consider all forms of tobacco/nicotine in their underwriting assessments: cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, vaping, and nicotine‑replacement products such as gum, pouches and patches.

Typically, any use of tobacco products within the past 12 months is assessed at tobacco class and can significantly impact insurance premiums.

But did you know:
  • Non-tobacco class may be available with some carriers if the use is other than cigarettes or vaping. Smokeless tobacco – chewing, pouches, nicotine patches and gum – could qualify for Standard non-tobacco class if the use is disclosed on the application and if there is no use of cigarettes or vaping within the prior 12 months.
  • Celebratory cigar use (no more than 12-24 cigars per year) could qualify for up to Preferred Best non-tobacco provided a urine specimen is negative for nicotine.

Contact our Underwriting Team for more information on how to get the best rates on your tobacco cases.