Updated: June 11, 2025
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You have the right to request a clear explanation from the insurer, and in some cases, appeal the decision or seek legal support.
Reapplying with updated information or applying with a different company can improve your chances of approval.
Several U.S. laws — including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) — serve to protect against discriminatory practices in the insurance industry.
Life insurance companies can deny your application if they believe you're too risky to insure. That decision is made during underwriting, the review process insurers use to evaluate your health, lifestyle, finances and age.
If your risk profile is too high, you may be turned down for coverage, even if you've followed all the steps to apply for life insurance. Here are the most common reasons why people are denied life insurance:
Certain health conditions, such as heart disease, cancer or diabetes, can increase your risk profile with insurers. These conditions, often chronic and potentially life-threatening, can lead to higher insurance premiums or outright denial.
Engaging in high-risk activities, whether through work or leisure, can categorize you as a high-risk life insurance applicant. Such activities heighten the chance of accidents, which could result in premature death.
Lifestyle choices, such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, can negatively impact your application due to their associated health risks. These behaviors are linked to a variety of health issues, such as heart disease and cancer, that could be reasons why life insurance is denied.
Your financial stability matters to insurers. A history of bankruptcy or poor credit can indicate financial instability, which can be a reason to be denied life insurance.
Insurers consider these factors because a policyholder's ability to pay premiums consistently is important for the policy to remain in force.
Age plays a major role in life insurance decisions. As people age, the risk of health issues increases, which can lead to higher premiums or denial.
Insurers may also consider life expectancy in specific demographic regions as part of their risk assessment.
Being denied life insurance can be frustrating, but you're not powerless. In many cases, you have the right to understand why you were denied and to challenge the decision if it's based on inaccurate or unfair information.
State and federal laws also offer important protections that prevent discrimination based on factors like age, disability or health history.
Start by requesting a clear explanation from the insurer. If you believe the denial was unjust, you may be able to appeal or escalate the issue with legal support.
Knowing your rights can make the difference between walking away and getting the coverage you deserve.
Various U.S. laws guard against discriminatory practices, and their principles apply even in the insurance industry. While not specifically addressing life insurance, these laws promote fairness and non-discrimination.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin. If you suspect that your life insurance application was denied due to any of these factors, this law could provide some protection.
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older from discrimination due to age. While it primarily applies to employment, it could be relevant if an insurer discriminates based on your age.
The Americans With Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination in all areas of public life. If an insurer discriminates against an individual with a disability, this law could apply.
The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act prohibits discrimination based on genetic information in health insurance and employment. This law could apply if an insurer discriminates based on your genetic makeup or test results.
The Affordable Care Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. While it primarily applies to health insurance, it could be relevant if an insurer discriminates based on these protected categories.
The Unfair Discrimination Against Subjects of Abuse in Life Insurance Model Act is a legislative model aimed at preventing discrimination against individuals who have experienced abuse, such as domestic violence or sexual assault, within the life insurance industry. The act prohibits using abuse history as a basis for premium calculations, coverage denials or other adverse actions, ensuring equal treatment and fair access to coverage for all individuals.
If your life insurance application is denied, your first move should be to ask the insurer for a written explanation. Companies are required to provide the reason for denial, typically through a formal letter.
This information is helpful as it shows you what went wrong and what you can do next. Review the explanation carefully.
If the denial was based on health concerns, you may be able to reapply after treatment or lifestyle changes. If it was related to finances, improving your credit or income stability could make a difference.
For help interpreting the denial or planning your next steps, consider speaking with a licensed insurance agent or financial advisor. They can clarify what led to the decision and offer guidance on how to strengthen a future application.
If you think your life insurance application was denied unfairly or the reasons provided don't make sense, it may be time to consult a lawyer. An attorney who specializes in insurance law can help you understand your rights, interpret the denial and determine if you have grounds to challenge the insurer's decision.
Legal support can be costly, so ask about fees upfront. Some attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.
This can be a practical option if you're facing a complex or potentially mishandled denial.
Being denied life insurance can feel like a dead end, but it's often just a detour. Whether you plan to appeal, reapply or explore alternative coverage, there are concrete steps you can take to move forward.
Understanding your options and the reasons behind the denial can help you improve your chances the next time you apply.
While a life insurance denial can be a setback, it may not be a definitive outcome. The appeal process offers a chance to challenge the decision and secure the coverage you need.
By understanding and navigating the key steps of this process, you can improve your chances of overturning the denial and getting your coverage.
Depending on the reasons for life insurance denial, you may need to gather additional information or documentation. This could include medical records, financial documents or letters from physicians.
For example, if your denial was due to a health condition, you might need a letter from your doctor explaining your treatment plan and prognosis.
Once you have all the necessary information, write a life insurance denial appeal letter to the insurance company. This letter should address each reason for denial and provide evidence to counter these points.
Be clear, concise and factual in your letter. You can find templates and examples of appeal letters on websites to guide you in writing your own.
After submitting your appeal, follow up regularly with the insurance company. This will ensure it's being processed and keep you informed of any updates.
You can do this by calling the insurance company's customer service line or contacting them through their website.
If your appeal is unsuccessful, don't lose hope. You may consider reapplying for life insurance, perhaps with a different company.
Remember, every insurance company has its own underwriting guidelines and criteria. What one company considers a deal-breaker, another might not.
During the reapplication process for life insurance coverage, whether with the same company or a different one, applicants should be aware that they will have to answer the question of whether they have been denied on the application form. It is essential to be prepared to provide precise and updated information, specifically addressing any changes that have occurred since the initial denial. With that in mind, here are some key tips to consider when reapplying for life insurance:
An insurance agent can provide valuable insights into the application process. They can help identify the reasons why life insurance is denied and suggest ways to improve your chances of approval in your next application.
Each insurer has its own set of underwriting criteria. If one company denies your application, another might approve it. Exploring different life insurance companies can open up new opportunities for coverage.
If you were denied due to a health concern, consider reapplying after taking some time to improve your health. Be mindful of any waiting period that may be required before reapplying, and use that time to improve your overall insurability.
If traditional life insurance isn't an option, consider alternatives like guaranteed acceptance life insurance or simplified issue life insurance. While these may offer less coverage or have higher premiums, they can still provide financial protection.
If you've been denied life insurance coverage and are considering your next steps, you have two primary options: reapplying with the same company or applying with a new insurance provider. Each approach has its own considerations and potential outcomes.
Reapplying with the same insurance company offers advantages, but there are potential drawbacks to consider. While the company is already familiar with your application, this could work against you if your situation hasn't improved since the initial denial.
If you haven't addressed the reasons for life insurance denial, you may face the risk of another rejection, which could impact your chances of obtaining coverage elsewhere.
Applying with a different insurance company presents its own set of advantages. Still, there are also potential drawbacks to be aware of. Starting afresh means you'll need to submit a new application and undergo a fresh evaluation, which might take time. Disclosing your previous denial during the application process may raise concerns with the new insurer and could influence their decision-making.
If you are classified as a high-risk applicant, understanding the unique circumstances that may affect your application can be helpful. This will help you decide which steps to take next and improve your chances of securing coverage.
Here are some tips tailored to different types of high-risk applicants:
According to the National Council on Aging, about 95% of older adults have at least one chronic disease, and 80% have two or more. This makes obtaining life insurance more challenging for this demographic.
However, some insurance companies offer policies specifically designed for older adults, albeit with higher premiums and lower coverage amounts. Older adults can also explore term life insurance as a more cost-effective option, particularly if they only require coverage for a specific period.
Pre-existing conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, may label you as a high-risk applicant due to potential health complications that could shorten your lifespan. To prepare better for life insurance underwriting, make sure to keep your medical records updated and accurate.
Show that your condition is well-managed by maintaining regular check-ups and adhering to prescribed medications. Adopting healthier lifestyle changes to improve your overall health metrics can also help.
Smoking or using tobacco products can drastically increase the cost of life insurance or even lead to denial of coverage. Insurance companies often require smokers to pay higher premiums due to these increased health risks.
The most effective way to lower your risk is to quit smoking. If you can't quit immediately, consider taking a convertible term policy. Honesty about your smoking habits is important, and it's advisable to explore different insurers to find the best life insurance rates for smokers.
Jobs or hobbies involving high-risk levels, such as construction work, commercial fishing or skydiving, can lead to higher life insurance premiums or denial of coverage. Provide detailed information about your job, including the safety measures in place and your actual level of risk.
If available, consider taking group life insurance through your employer.
According to a study, a poor credit history can influence life insurance denials. Life insurance companies may view poor credit as a sign of financial risk, which could lead to higher premiums or denial of coverage.
Boost your credit score by paying bills on time, keeping credit utilization low and regularly monitoring your credit report for errors.
Non-U.S. citizens can face additional challenges when applying for life insurance, including restrictions based on immigration status or length of residency. However, many insurance companies do offer policies to non-U.S. citizens, though the terms and conditions may vary.
Make sure you have proper documentation, understand the available insurance options and work with an experienced agent who is familiar with immigrant-specific policies.
Even if traditional life insurance isn't an option, you still have choices to protect your loved ones financially. These alternatives can be particularly beneficial for those facing challenges in securing standard life insurance, such as older adults, individuals with certain health conditions or high-risk occupations.
Your health plays a major role in determining life insurance rates and coverage eligibility. The good news is that insurance companies are increasingly considering health improvements when assessing applicants.
Here are some health improvement strategies you may consider to boost your chances of qualifying for better coverage.
Regular exercise, consuming a balanced and nutritious diet, managing stress levels and getting enough sleep are key components of a healthy lifestyle. These practices not only contribute to your overall wellbeing but also show insurance providers that you're actively taking steps to maintain good health.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have been denied life insurance due to weight or health conditions. Improving your health metrics can address some of the reasons for life insurance denial.
If you have pre-existing health conditions, manage them effectively through regular medical care, adhering to prescribed treatments and making necessary lifestyle adjustments. This responsible approach can positively influence their perception of your insurability and improve your chances of securing coverage.
Smoking is a major risk factor for various health conditions, including heart disease, lung cancer and respiratory issues. Quitting smoking reduces your health risks and may lead to more favorable coverage options and lower premiums.
Regular check-ups, screenings and vaccinations are important for preventive healthcare. By staying up to date with preventive care, you can detect potential health issues early, prevent the progression of certain diseases and maintain optimal health.
Insurance providers value proactive healthcare practices, as they indicate your commitment to preventing and managing potential health risks.
Taking care of your mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Seeking appropriate support and treatment for mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression, is important for your emotional well-being and physical health.
For individuals who have been denied life insurance due to mental health, it's important to demonstrate active management and treatment of these conditions. This proactive approach can positively influence your life insurance application.
Engaging in stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation, yoga or engaging in hobbies, is important for maintaining overall wellness. By prioritizing self-care activities and adopting stress management strategies, you actively promote your mental and physical well-being.
In this page, we explained what to do if you're denied life insurance, from understanding the reasons behind it to appealing the decision and finding alternative coverage.
A denial doesn't mean you're uninsurable forever. By knowing your rights, improving your risk profile and exploring other options, you can still secure financial protection for your loved ones.
Below are answers to commonly asked questions about life insurance denials to provide insights on why applications might be rejected, helping you understand and overcome potential obstacles.
Yes, a life insurance application can be denied for various reasons, including health issues, financial instability and high-risk behaviors.
Being deemed uninsurable often results from high-risk factors, including severe health conditions, risky occupations or lifestyle choices. Reasons life insurance is denied involve major risks that increase the likelihood of a claim.
Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease and cancer, can be major hurdles. Being denied life insurance due to mental health issues or a complex medical history are also common life insurance denial reasons.
If you face a denied life insurance application, request a detailed explanation from the insurer. Then, address any reversible issues and consider submitting a life insurance denial appeal letter.
Exploring different insurers or specific policies designed for high-risk individuals may also be beneficial.
Making positive lifestyle changes like quitting smoking or losing weight can impact your life insurance application. These improvements can address life insurance denial reasons related to health and lifestyle risks, potentially reversing a previous denial.
Why Trust MoneyGeek
We analyzed 1,488 life insurance quotes alongside customer satisfaction ratings, financial stability reports, product offerings and more to determine the best life insurance companies for a variety of needs.
Recency
Coverage costs and company information for life insurance providers were updated in 2025.
MoneyGeek’s Scoring System
MoneyGeek created a scoring system to compare life insurance companies across five categories and ranked them based on their scores. We chose to review these companies based on their broad national coverage and ability to provide an online quote. In our unique scoring system, companies can earn up to five points in each category. We then use these category scores to calculate an overall MoneyGeek score out of 100. We applied the following weightings to score insurers:
For whole life policies, we used the following weightings:
For no-exam policies, we used these weights:
To determine the best cheap life insurance company, we used:
Each company’s score incorporates the following:
Sample Customer Profile
MoneyGeek used a standard profile to obtain quotes: a 40-year-old male, nonsmoker, 5 feet 11 inches tall, 175 pounds, in excellent health.
We adjusted the profile by age, gender, height, weight, tobacco use, health rating and location to collect quotes for various customer types. We also gathered data for term life policies with different coverage amounts and durations.
We identified trends in the data set and used those patterns to calculate projections and extend the analysis beyond the initial quote set.
Explore a variety of life insurance underwriting resources to help you get started. Take advantage of these reliable resources to improve your understanding.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.
