Life Insurance Options With Atrial Fibrillation

Life insurance is a tricky topic, and when you have a pre-existing condition, it can get even more complicated. Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a condition that affects the heart, causing an irregular heartbeat. This is a concern for life insurance companies because it can lead to other medical issues such as heart disease or stroke. So, can you get life insurance if you have AFib?

The short answer is yes, it is possible to get life insurance if you have AFib. However, the application process can be challenging, and you may need to work with an experienced agent to secure coverage. The type of AFib and any underlying health conditions will impact your eligibility and the rates you are offered.

There are four main types of AFib: Paroxysmal, Persistent, Permanent, and Lone AFib. Paroxysmal AFib is intermittent and usually resolves within a day or two, while Persistent AFib occurs more than ten times per year and requires treatment. Permanent AFib is ongoing and doesn't subside, while Lone AFib is a single episode, often caused by stress or another less serious health condition. The type of AFib you have will affect how insurance companies view your application.

During the application process, insurance companies will want to know about your AFib, including when you were first diagnosed, the type of AFib, your treatment plan, and any other health conditions you may have. They will also want to see the results of cardiac evaluations and electrocardiograms (ECGs). Your age, overall health, and lifestyle choices will also be considered.

If you have AFib, you will likely be considered a high-risk applicant and may receive a higher rate or a sub-standard health class rating. However, this is not always the case, and it is important to shop around and work with an experienced agent to get the best rates. Improving your overall health, following your doctor's recommendations, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also increase your chances of getting affordable life insurance.

So, while having AFib may complicate the process, it is still possible to get life insurance coverage. Don't give up, do your research, and work with a knowledgeable agent to find the best plan for your needs.

Life insurance rates for people with AFib

If you have AFib, you can still get life insurance, but your rates will be higher than those of a person without serious risk factors. The exact rate will depend on the specifics of your situation, such as your age, the type of AFib you have, and how well you are managing your condition.

If a standard rate for life insurance is $100/month, someone with AFib will pay between $125 and $275 per month. This means that people with AFib pay anywhere from 25% to 175% more than the standard rate.

Several factors affect the rate of life insurance for people with AFib.

• Type of AFib: Occasional AFib, also called paroxysmal or intermittent AFib, may not require medication to manage the condition. In this case, underwriters may classify you as Preferred Plus, which means extremely low risk and qualifies you for the lowest available rates. Persistent AFib, on the other hand, is classified as long-term if it has lasted more than 12 months and may result in higher rates. Permanent AFib is a condition that doesn't go away after treatment and must be controlled by medication for the rest of your life. It will likely lead to higher rates.
• Age: Life insurance companies prefer to see that your AFib was diagnosed before the age of 60. The younger you are when diagnosed, the more lenient the companies are with their approvals. This is because treatments for AFib have a higher success rate in people under 60, and the risk of stroke increases with age.
• Time since diagnosis: The longer it has been since your diagnosis, the better. Living with AFib for a longer period demonstrates that it's not as life-threatening as it may initially appear. If you were diagnosed within the past six months, you may have to purchase guaranteed issue whole life insurance rather than term life insurance.
• Overall health: If you have other serious health problems in addition to AFib, you will likely pay a higher rate. This is especially true if your AFib is caused by a serious heart condition.
• Tests: The results of diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram, can indicate the severity and progression of your condition. If there have been no changes in the results over the last 24 months, you will be considered stable and a suitable risk.
• Symptoms: If you regularly experience symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness, your insurance company will probably charge higher rates.
• Medications: If you are taking medication to manage your AFib, your insurance company will have access to this information. While this suggests a more serious heart condition, it is not a hard-and-fast rule, and your medication history is only one factor that insurance companies consider.
• Smoking: Smoking is considered a high-risk habit, and if you have AFib or another serious heart issue, you will likely pay even higher rates.
• Alcohol consumption: Moderate alcohol consumption is usually okay, but it has been linked to an increased risk of AFib. Higher alcohol consumption has been linked to negative changes in the heart, especially for those with persistent AFib.

How to Get Better Rates

Even if you have AFib, there are things you can do to improve your life insurance rates:

• Take care of your health by avoiding smoking, losing excess weight, and following your doctor's recommendations.
• Think through how much life insurance you will need before shopping. It's usually cheaper to purchase the right type and amount upfront than to change your coverage later.
• Spend time comparison shopping, as different companies may offer different rates.

How to get life insurance with AFib

It is possible to get life insurance if you have atrial fibrillation (AFib), but the process can be challenging. Here are some steps to help you get life insurance with AFib:

Understand the Challenges

AFib increases your risk of developing more serious health conditions, such as heart disease or stroke, so insurance companies will consider you a higher-risk applicant. This does not mean you will be declined for coverage, but you may face higher premiums or more stringent requirements.

Understand the Types of AFib

There are different types of AFib, and insurance companies will evaluate each type differently:

• Lone AFib: This is when you have had only one episode of AFib, likely caused by stress or a less serious health condition. You would be considered lower risk and have a good chance of getting traditional coverage with lower premiums.
• Paroxysmal AFib: Characterized by recurring, short-term irregular heart function. This type of AFib is considered high risk, but obtaining traditional life insurance coverage is still likely.
• Persistent AFib: Characterized by frequent, long-lasting irregular heartbeats, often due to an underlying health problem. This type of AFib significantly increases your risk of other health problems.
• Permanent AFib: When irregular heartbeats do not subside and are considered chronic. This type of AFib is a definite red flag for insurance companies and is the most challenging to obtain traditional life insurance coverage for.

Find an Experienced Agent

Working with an experienced and independent life insurance agent is crucial. They will know which insurance companies are more lenient towards AFib patients and can help you navigate the application process. Captive agents, who work for a single company, may not be able to offer flexible options.

Prepare for the Application Process

The life insurance application process for AFib patients can be extensive. The insurance company will review your medical history, and your age and overall health will play a significant role in getting approved for a policy. Be prepared to answer questions about your AFib, such as the date of your first diagnosis, the type of AFib, treatments received, and any lifestyle changes to reduce occurrences. They may also inquire about other health conditions and your smoking status, as this will impact your rates.

Compare Quotes and Improve Your Health

Compare quotes from multiple insurance companies to find the most affordable option. You can also work on improving your overall health before the medical exam, which may help you secure better rates. This includes exercising, eating healthier, and following your doctor's recommendations for AFib management.

Explore Other Options if Declined

If you are denied traditional life insurance, there are still other options available. Guaranteed issue life insurance policies do not require a medical exam and are available to individuals with life-threatening medical conditions. However, these policies have lower death benefits and higher premiums.

Types of AFib

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. AFib is classified by doctors according to its duration and cause, rather than distinct types. However, there are four categories of AFib based on the frequency and persistence of episodes:

Paroxysmal AFib

Paroxysmal AFib is when an irregular heartbeat occurs briefly and spontaneously, lasting from several seconds to a week. Most episodes resolve themselves within 24 hours and may not cause any symptoms. This type of AFib may be caused by extreme stress, heavy drinking, or underlying health issues like high blood pressure or heart valve disease. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, or in some cases, electrical cardioversion.

Persistent AFib

AFib is considered persistent when it lasts longer than a week. It may stop on its own or require medication or treatment. Persistent AFib usually starts as short-term AFib and can lead to serious health complications like blood clots and strokes if left untreated. Treatment options include medication, electrical cardioversion, and in some cases, ablation.

Long-Standing Persistent AFib

This type of AFib is characterised by episodes lasting longer than a year without interruption. It is often associated with structural heart damage and can be challenging to treat with medication alone. More invasive treatments, such as electrical cardioversion, ablation, or pacemaker implantation, may be necessary.

Permanent AFib

When AFib does not respond to treatment and persists indefinitely, it is considered permanent. At this stage, the focus shifts from restoring a normal heart rhythm to managing symptoms and reducing the risk of complications. Treatment options include long-term medication to control heart rate and prevent blood clots, which can lead to stroke.

How AFib affects life insurance premiums

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a condition where the heart beats irregularly, causing symptoms like lightheadedness, nausea, and weakness. While AFib itself is not life-threatening, it can lead to other serious health issues such as heart disease and stroke, which are considered high-risk factors by insurance companies. As a result, individuals with AFib often face higher life insurance premiums or may even be denied coverage. However, it is still possible to obtain life insurance with AFib, and understanding the factors that influence premiums can help individuals manage their expectations and make informed decisions.

Factors Affecting Life Insurance Premiums for Individuals with AFib:

• Type of AFib: Occasional or intermittent AFib, which may not require medication, is often viewed more favorably by insurance companies than persistent or permanent AFib. The longer the condition persists and the more severe it is, the higher the premiums are likely to be.
• Age at Diagnosis: Insurance companies prefer to see AFib diagnosed before the age of 60. Younger individuals tend to receive more lenient treatment in terms of premiums. As age increases, life insurance rates generally rise, especially after 50.
• Time Since Diagnosis: The longer an individual has been living with AFib, the better. A recent diagnosis within the past six months may lead to higher rates or the need for a whole life insurance policy instead of term life insurance.
• Treatment and Medication: Successful treatment and management of AFib can lead to better rates. Insurance companies want to see that the condition is under control, whether through medication or procedural treatments like ablations. The number of AFib episodes and their frequency are important factors.
• Overall Health and Lifestyle: Insurance companies consider an individual's overall health, including other medical conditions, family history, smoking status, and high-risk occupations or hobbies. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following doctors' orders can improve the chances of obtaining more favorable premiums.
• Gender: Women tend to pay lower life insurance premiums than men due to their longer life expectancy.
• State of Residence: State laws can influence life insurance prices, so rates may vary depending on the state of residence.
• Company Specialties: Different insurance companies have varying underwriting processes and specialties. Some companies specialize in applicants with AFib, while others may be more stringent. Shopping around and comparing quotes can help individuals find the most affordable options.

While AFib can impact life insurance premiums, it is not an insurmountable obstacle. By understanding the factors that influence premiums and taking proactive steps to manage their health and treatment, individuals with AFib can find suitable coverage options that provide peace of mind for themselves and their loved ones.

What to do if you're denied life insurance due to AFib

If you've been denied life insurance due to AFib, there are a few things you can do to still get the coverage you need. Here are some steps you can take:

• Work with an experienced agent: An experienced life insurance agent can help you navigate the process and increase your chances of getting approved. They will have relationships with multiple carriers and can help you find the most affordable option.
• Improve your health: Taking care of your health can improve your chances of getting approved for life insurance. This includes following your doctor's orders, losing excess weight, quitting smoking, and making other lifestyle changes.
• Shop around: Different life insurance companies have different underwriting processes and guidelines. By shopping around and comparing rates, you may be able to find a company that is more lenient towards individuals with AFib.
• Consider guaranteed issue whole life insurance: If you're over 50, you may qualify for guaranteed issue whole life insurance, which does not require a medical exam and guarantees coverage.
• Explore group insurance options: If you're under 50, you can consider group insurance options through your employer, which may be more lenient towards pre-existing conditions.
• Be honest about your health: When applying for life insurance, it's important to be upfront about your medical conditions. Failing to disclose a pre-existing condition could result in your policy being denied or canceled.
• Get a medical check-up: If you're unsure about your health status, it's a good idea to get a full medical check-up, including blood tests and an electrocardiogram (ECG), to get a clear picture of your overall health.
• Work with an independent insurance agent: A knowledgeable independent insurance agent can help you navigate the complex world of life insurance and find a policy that fits your needs and budget.

Remember, even if you've been denied life insurance due to AFib, there are still options available to you. Don't give up, and don't be afraid to reach out for help.

Frequently asked questions