The Cost of Smoking
Tobacco use is the single biggest factor that increases life insurance premiums. Smokers typically pay two to four times more than non-smokers for the same coverage amount.
For a healthy 35-year-old male seeking a $500,000 20-year term policy, the difference can be stark: $30/month as a non-smoker versus $100/month or more as a smoker.
What Counts as Tobacco Use?
Most insurance companies test for cotinine, a nicotine metabolite, during the medical exam. This detects cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, nicotine patches, nicotine gum, and vaping/e-cigarettes.
Some carriers offer non-smoker rates for occasional cigar use (typically fewer than 12 per year) or for vaping/e-cigarette use only. Shopping with an independent agent who knows carrier-specific policies is essential.
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Get Your Free QuoteQuitting Can Save You Thousands
Most insurers require 12 months tobacco-free to qualify for non-smoker rates, though some require 2 to 5 years. If you quit smoking, you can apply for a rate reduction or re-apply for a new policy at non-smoker rates.
The savings over a 20-year term can total $15,000 to $30,000 — a powerful financial incentive on top of the health benefits of quitting.