Having diabetes doesn't mean you can't get life insurance in Canada. With over 3.8 million Canadians living with diagnosed diabetes and another 1.5 million undiagnosed, insurers have developed specialized underwriting approaches to provide coverage for those managing this condition effectively. Well-controlled Type 2 diabetics often qualify for simplified issue coverage.

How Insurers View Diabetes in 2026

Insurance underwriters assess diabetic applicants based on several key factors:

HbA1c levels: Target of 7.0% or lower is most favorable for underwriting
Treatment regimen: Diet-controlled vs. oral medications vs. insulin
Complications: Presence of neuropathy, retinopathy, or nephropathy
Overall health: Weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, and other conditions

Type 1 vs. Type 2 Underwriting

Factor	Type 1 Diabetes	Type 2 Diabetes
Typical Rating	Table 4-8 (100-200% extra)	Standard to Table 4 (0-100% extra)
Best Case Scenario	Table 2-4 with excellent control	Standard rates possible
Key Success Factor	Long duration, no complications	Diet/medication control, stable weight
Simplified Issue Eligibility	Rarely available	Often available if well-controlled

2026 Premium Estimates for Diabetics

Sample monthly premiums for $500,000 20-year term (40-year-old male, non-smoker):

Diabetes Profile	Estimated Rating	Monthly Premium	vs. Standard
Standard (non-diabetic)	Standard	$55-70	Baseline
Type 2, diet-controlled	Standard to Table 2	$55-90	0-30% higher
Type 2, oral medications	Table 2-4	$85-125	50-75% higher
Type 2, insulin-dependent	Table 4-6	$125-180	100-150% higher
Type 1, well-controlled	Table 4-8	$125-210	100-200% higher

Actual premiums vary significantly by insurer and individual health profile. Table ratings add 25% per table.

What Underwriters Evaluate

HbA1c Levels

Target of 7.0% or lower is favorable. Levels above 9% make traditional coverage difficult.

Cardiovascular Health

Blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart health significantly impact ratings.

Compliance

Regular doctor visits, medication adherence, and self-monitoring history.

Duration & Stability

How long you've had diabetes and whether control has been consistent.

Coverage Options Available

Coverage Type	Type 2 Eligibility	Type 1 Eligibility	Max Coverage
Traditional Underwritten	Usually available with rating	Available with higher rating	Unlimited
Simplified Issue	Often available if stable	Rarely available	$100,000-$500,000
Guaranteed Issue	Always available	Always available	$25,000-$50,000
Group Insurance	Usually no restrictions	Usually no restrictions	Employer-determined

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake: Applying without recent HbA1c results

Solution: Get a current HbA1c test (within 3 months) before applying. Good results significantly improve your rating.

Mistake: Not disclosing diabetes fully

Solution: Prescription databases reveal diabetes medications. Non-disclosure leads to claim denials. Be completely honest.

Mistake: Applying only to one insurer

Solution: Diabetic underwriting varies dramatically by insurer. Some specialize in this area. Apply to multiple carriers.

Mistake: Assuming guaranteed issue is the only option

Solution: Well-controlled Type 2 diabetics often qualify for simplified issue with higher coverage and lower premiums.

Tips for Getting Better Rates

Maintain excellent blood sugar control (HbA1c under 7.0%) for at least 6 months before applying
Gather recent medical records showing good management and regular checkups
Work with a broker experienced in diabetic underwriting who knows which insurers are most favorable
Apply to multiple insurers simultaneously as ratings vary significantly
Address other health factors: manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol

Diabetes Resources in Canada

Managing diabetes well improves both your health and your insurability:

• Diabetes Canada: Education, advocacy, and support resources
• Provincial health plans: Cover medications, testing supplies, and specialist visits
• Tax credits: Disability Tax Credit may apply for those requiring insulin