
Life insurance can be a daunting topic, especially for smokers who think it's out of their budget. You can get affordable life insurance if you smoke, and it's not as expensive as you might think.
Smoking can increase your life insurance premiums, but the difference is not as drastic as you might expect. On average, smokers pay about 25% more for life insurance than non-smokers.
Many insurance companies offer cheap life insurance options for smokers, and some even have specialized policies designed specifically for smokers. These policies can be a more affordable option for those who need life insurance but can't afford the higher premiums associated with standard policies.
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Types of Life Insurance
Life insurance can be a lifesaver for your loved ones, especially if you have a smoking habit. Term life insurance is a great option for those who want temporary coverage, lasting anywhere from 10 to 30 years.
Whole life insurance, on the other hand, offers permanent coverage and typically includes a cash value component. It's like having a safety net that grows over time.

Universal life insurance combines elements of term and whole life insurance, offering flexibility and potential for growth. You can adjust your premiums and death benefit as needed.
Variable life insurance allows you to invest a portion of your premiums in a variety of assets, such as stocks or mutual funds. This can lead to higher returns, but also comes with more risk.
Cigar Smoker Life Insurance
If you're a cigar smoker, you're in luck - you can get non-tobacco rates from some life insurance companies.
You'll need to admit to smoking cigars on the application and test negative for nicotine metabolites to qualify.
ING is a good choice if you're a frequent cigar smoker, as they'll disregard cigar smoking and consider you for up to Preferred Plus Non Smoker rates if you smoke a cigar once a week or less.
The cost of life insurance for cigar smokers can be huge - sometimes three times as much or more for the same coverage.
A male aged 45 in average health would pay $174 per month as a "smoker", but only $55 per month as a "non-smoker" for the same $500,000, 10-year term life policy.
Broaden your view: Permanent Life Insurance Rates
Life Insurance Costs

Life insurance costs can vary significantly depending on your smoking habits. A male aged 45 who smokes cigars can pay up to three times more for life insurance compared to a non-smoker.
For a $500,000, 10-year term life policy, a "smoker" would pay $174 per month, while a "non-smoker" would pay only $55 per month. This is a staggering 68% savings for non-smokers.
This difference in cost can be a huge burden for cigar smokers, equivalent to a box of good cigars every month.
A unique perspective: Life Insurance and Non Life Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you have to be tobacco free for life insurance?
To qualify as a non-smoker for life insurance, you must be nicotine-free for at least 1 year. Quitting smoking can lead to lower life insurance rates, but you'll need to wait a year to be eligible for a rate reconsideration.
Will life insurance pay out if you smoke?
Life insurance plans can still be obtained if you smoke, but you'll likely pay higher premiums due to the increased health risk
Sources
- https://www.bestlifequote.com/blog/term-life-insurance-as-a-cigar-smoker/
- https://www.lifeant.com/faq/can-cigar-smokers-find-cheap-life-insurance/
- https://www.valuepenguin.com/life-insurance-smokers
- https://chooseterm.com/types/high-risk/cigar-smoker/
- https://cigarlifeguy.com/life-insurance-for-cigar-smokers/
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