Hiv And Life Insurance: Impact And Options

Life insurance for people with HIV has become more accessible in recent years due to medical advances and improved life expectancy. However, people with HIV may face challenges when applying for life insurance, including detailed health screenings, higher premiums, and limited policy options. The cost and availability of life insurance for this group also depend on factors such as age, treatment plan, and overall health. This is a result of the underwriting process, where insurers assess the risk associated with insuring an individual with HIV, considering their likelihood of dying while covered by the policy. While some insurers may deny coverage or charge higher rates, others are beginning to view HIV similarly to other chronic diseases and are expanding their coverage options.

HIV status disclosure

During the application process, insurers will ask detailed questions about your health, including the date of your HIV diagnosis, CD4 count, viral load, medications, and any symptoms. They may also request written statements from your doctors and specialists involved in your care. This information helps them assess your application and determine the level of risk.

In addition to health-related questions, insurers will also consider your age, overall health, and lifestyle choices. They may inquire about your job, daily activities, and any lifestyle issues disclosed on the application. It is essential to provide honest and accurate information to ensure your policy remains valid.

If you are concerned about privacy, there are alternative options for obtaining life insurance. Group life insurance, offered by some employers, does not always require a medical questionnaire, and your HIV status may not need to be disclosed. Final expense insurance and guaranteed issue life insurance are other options that may have less stringent underwriting requirements.

While the cost of life insurance for people with HIV has traditionally been high, recent medical advances have improved access to coverage. Be sure to shop around and compare quotes from different insurers, as rates can vary. Working with a specialist broker or adviser can also help you navigate the process and find the best coverage for your needs.

Life insurance underwriting

Underwriting Factors for HIV-Positive People

Underwriting a life insurance policy for HIV-positive applicants involves calculating the mortality risk each applicant presents to the insurance company. When an applicant discloses that they are HIV-positive, the insurance carrier will order tests and reports to determine the risk to the insurer. Underwriters will inquire into at least five areas concerning the HIV diagnosis:

Stage of the Disease

There are three stages associated with HIV:

• Acute HIV Infection – This is considered the early stage of the infection and extends from 2 to 4 weeks from the initial infection while the body produces antibodies to be detected by the standard HIV antibody test. During this period, the disease is very infectious because of the speed at which the virus is multiplying.
• Chronic HIV Infection – During this stage, the level of HIV increases while the number of CD4 cells decreases. When the level of CDR cells goes down, it indicates that the patient is experiencing increasing damage to the immune system, and ART (Antiretroviral therapy) is prescribed to help stop the virus from destroying the immune system and leading to AIDS.
• AIDS – Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome is the most advanced stage of HIV. This diagnosis is determined when the patient with HIV has an AIDS-defining condition and/or a CD4 count that is lower than 200 cells/mm^3^.

Age of the Applicant

Underwriting guidelines vary by insurance company, but carriers who will consider an HIV-positive applicant generally require that the applicant be no older than 50 years old.

Overall Health of the HIV-Positive Applicant

Underwriters will inquire about any other health conditions, both current and historical. They will also be concerned about any lifestyle issues that might be disclosed on the application and whether the applicant is well enough to hold down a job and take care of daily living activities.

Treatment Plan

Even though HIV cannot be cured, underwriters will request evidence that the applicant is managing the illness by taking the prescribed antiretroviral medications and regularly having CD4 levels checked.

Additional Underwriting Criteria for HIV-Positive Applicants

To qualify for a life insurance policy, HIV-positive applicants must also meet the following criteria:

• Self-identify as an individual living with HIV
• Be between the ages of 20 and 65
• Have been on highly active antiretroviral therapy for at least two years and demonstrate favorable lab results
• Have no history of AIDS-defining conditions or illnesses
• Have no history of Hepatitis B
• Must be Hepatitis C Ab negative or cured
• Have an undetectable HIV viral load
• Have a CD4 count above 350 and never have been below 200
• Have no history of intravenous drug abuse (within the last 7 years)
• Be under the care of a doctor specializing in treating HIV patients

Medical assessment

Every life insurance applicant must undergo a medical assessment called underwriting to help determine coverage qualification. Each case is individually assessed. For HIV-positive applicants, additional underwriting criteria must be met to be considered for a policy.

The underwriting process involves an assessment of risk. Insurers want to know the likelihood that you’ll die while you are covered because your death means the company has to pay out the death benefit.

HIV-positive applicants should expect the underwriter to inquire into at least five areas concerning the HIV diagnosis:

The Stage of the Disease

There are three stages associated with HIV:

• Acute HIV Infection – the early stage of the infection and extends from 2 to 4 weeks from the initial infection while the body produces antibodies to be detected by the standard HIV antibody test.
• Chronic HIV Infection – the level of HIV increases while the number of CD4 cells decreases. When the level of CDR cells goes down, it indicates that the patient is experiencing increasing damage to the immune system, and ART (Antiretroviral therapy) is prescribed to help stop the virus from destroying the immune system and leading to AIDS.
• AIDS – the most advanced stage of HIV. This diagnosis is determined when the patient with HIV has an AIDS-defining condition and/or a CD4 count that is lower than 200 cells/mm.

The Age of the Applicant

Although underwriting guidelines vary by insurance company, the carriers who will consider an HIV-positive applicant require that the applicant be no older than 50 years old.

The Overall Health of the HIV-Positive Applicant

Rarely does an HIV-positive applicant only present with an HIV diagnosis, so the underwriter will inquire about any other health conditions, both current and historical. Most underwriters will also be concerned about any lifestyle issues that might be disclosed on the application and whether the applicant is well enough to hold down a job and take care of daily living activities.

Treatment Plan

Even though HIV cannot be cured, the underwriter will request evidence that the applicant is managing the illness by taking the prescribed antiretroviral medications and regularly having CD4 levels checked. Antiretrovirals are showing promising results that treatment will slow or even stop the virus from becoming full-blown AIDS.

Other Factors

In addition to the above, HIV-positive applicants will be asked about their:

• Date of diagnosis
• Current CD4 count and viral load
• Any other medical conditions in addition to HIV
• Medications prescribed, and what is the dosage of each
• Whether they are currently symptomatic, and whether they were ever symptomatic

Cost of life insurance

The cost of life insurance for people living with HIV depends on various factors, and it is likely to be more expensive than for those without the virus. People with HIV can expect to pay some of the highest rates on the market. However, the exact cost will vary depending on the insurance company and the individual's circumstances.

Several factors influence the cost of life insurance for people with HIV, including age, treatment plan, and overall health. The better your rating, the less you will pay for life insurance. For example, if you are generally healthy and your HIV is well-controlled, you may be considered for a "standard" rate, which is comparable to what people with other pre-existing conditions may pay.

The cost of a fully underwritten policy will depend on how well your HIV is managed. If you opt for a policy that doesn't require supplying as much medical information, you will likely pay more for coverage. In this case, it is recommended to work with a life insurance agent or broker to find the best rates.

To get the best rates, it is important to lead a safe and healthy lifestyle. This includes avoiding smoking and risky hobbies like skydiving or mountain climbing. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help secure better rates from insurers.

Additionally, certain medical factors can influence the cost of life insurance for people with HIV. These include:

• Viral load: Lower viral loads indicate better control over the virus and may result in more favorable premiums.
• CD4 count: A higher CD4 count suggests a healthier immune system, which could lead to improved policy terms.
• Lifestyle factors: Non-smoking status and maintaining a healthy weight can positively impact premium rates.
• Age: Younger individuals in good health can typically expect more favorable rates.

It is worth noting that each insurance company has its specific underwriting guidelines to determine premium costs for people living with HIV. It is recommended to shop around and compare different providers before making a decision.

Application process

The application process for life insurance when you have HIV involves several steps and can be complicated, so it is recommended that you work with an experienced insurance agent. Here is an overview of the application process:

• Work with an agent: Determine the ideal face amount of insurance you want and the company you prefer to apply with. An agent can help you navigate the process and increase your chances of approval.
• Complete the application: You can do this online, over the phone, or in person. Be prepared to provide personal information, such as your physical address, Social Security number, medical history, and beneficiary information. You will also need to disclose your HIV status.
• Answer specific questions about your HIV status: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your HIV prognosis, treatments, and other pre-existing conditions. You may be asked about your CD4 count, viral load, and any medications you are taking.
• Medical exam: Depending on the specific policy you are applying for, you may need to undergo a medical exam.
• Underwriting: The insurance company will assess your application, along with external data, to determine your eligibility based on their specific underwriting criteria.
• Make the first premium payment: If your application is approved, you will need to make the first payment for your policy.
• Receive your policy: Your policy will be sent to you electronically or by mail, and it should be stored in a safe place.
• Review your policy: It is important to review your policy annually or whenever you have a major life change to ensure that it still meets your needs.

It is important to note that maintaining good health and adhering to prescribed treatments are key factors in the application process. This includes regular doctor visits, consistent use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and maintaining a healthy CD4 count and low viral load.

Frequently asked questions