Why Do Smokers Pay More for Life Insurance? (And How to Still Get Affordable Coverage)

The Harsh Truth: Smoking Can Double Your Life Insurance Costs

If you smoke, you're used to paying extra—higher taxes on cigarettes, more on health care, and even pricier life insurance. But why? Insurers don't just charge smokers more to be unfair; it's about risk. Smoking dramatically increases the chances of serious health problems, meaning insurers are more likely to pay out a claim sooner.

The good news? Even as a smoker, you can still get life insurance—and it's one of the smartest ways to protect your family's future. Let's break down why smoking raises your rates, what you can do about it, and why coverage is worth every penny.

Why Smoking Makes Life Insurance More Expensive

Life insurance companies base premiums on risk, and smoking is one of the biggest red flags. 

Here's why:

• Higher Mortality Risk – Smokers live, on average, 10 years less than non-smokers.

  
  

• Increased Disease Risk – Heart disease, lung cancer, stroke, and COPD are far more common among smokers.

  
  

• Greater Likelihood of Early Claims – Insurers expect to pay out sooner for smokers, so they charge more to offset that risk.

  
  

As a result, a 40-year-old smoker might pay twice as much as a non-smoker for the same policy. Even occasional smokers or vapers often get classified as "smokers," so honesty during the application process is crucial.

How Smokers Can Still Get Affordable Life Insurance

Yes, smoking raises your rates—but you still have options:

1. Term Life Insurance

• Most affordable choice for smokers.

• Fixed premiums for 10, 20, or 30 years.

• Perfect for covering mortgages, debts, or kids' education.

  
  

2. Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance

• No medical exam required (ideal if you have health issues).

• Higher premiums but guaranteed approval.

  
  

3. Quit Smoking & Save

• Many insurers reclassify you as a non-smoker after 12+ months of quitting.

• This can cut your premiums in half over time.

  
  

Why Life Insurance Is Still Worth It for Smokers

Even with higher costs, life insurance provides critical protection:

✅ Pays off debts (mortgage, car loans, credit cards).

✅ Replaces lost income so your family isn't struggling.

✅ Covers final expenses (funeral costs can exceed $10,000).

✅ Locks in rates now—waiting only makes insurance more expensive.

Don't Let Smoking Stop You from Protecting Your Family

Yes, smoking makes life insurance more expensive—but going without it is riskier. The sooner you get coverage, the better your rates will be. And if you quit? You could qualify for lower premiums later.

Ready to see your options? Get a free quote for smoker's life insurance today and take the first step toward securing your family's future—no matter your smoking status.