Can You Get Life Insurance with High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects nearly half of U.S. adults. If you’re one of them and you’re applying for life insurance, you might be wondering: Will I qualify? Will my premiums go through the roof? The good news is that yes, you can get life insurance with high blood pressure — and in many cases, at affordable rates. The key is understanding how insurers evaluate the condition, what they look for in your application, and how to prepare.
In this in-depth guide, we break down everything you need to know — from underwriting criteria to tips that can improve your chances of approval.
Quick Insights: Life Insurance and High Blood Pressure
- Life insurance is still possible with high blood pressure — even with medication.
- The severity and control of your hypertension affect your premiums more than the diagnosis itself.
- Controlled blood pressure with medication may still qualify you for standard or preferred rates.
- Some insurers specialize in covering applicants with high blood pressure.
- Managing your lifestyle, including diet and exercise, can help lower rates.
What Counts as High Blood Pressure in Life Insurance?
Most insurers define hypertension based on guidelines from the American Heart Association:
| Blood Pressure Category | Systolic (Top) | Diastolic (Bottom) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | < 120 | < 80 |
| Elevated | 120–129 | < 80 |
| High (Stage 1) | 130–139 | 80–89 |
| High (Stage 2) | 140+ | 90+ |
Life insurers don’t just look at one reading. They consider a history of readings and whether your hypertension is controlled via medication or lifestyle.
If your blood pressure has been consistently under control for 12+ months, you could still qualify for Standard or even Preferred rates depending on the insurer.
How Life Insurance Companies Evaluate High Blood Pressure
When you apply, the insurance company conducts underwriting — a deep dive into your health profile. Here’s what they’ll evaluate specifically around your hypertension:
1. Current Blood Pressure Readings
They may review recent medical records or require a paramedical exam. Some insurers accept telehealth records.
2. Medication Use
Taking medication doesn’t automatically disqualify you. If your condition is well-managed with medication, that’s seen positively.
3. Duration and Control
The longer your blood pressure has been under control, the better. Insurers look for a history of stability.
4. Related Health Conditions
High blood pressure alongside diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, or smoking may push you into higher risk classes.
5. Lifestyle
Are you actively managing your condition through exercise, diet, and regular checkups? These can help offset medical risks.
Term vs. Whole Life Insurance with Hypertension
Both term and whole life policies are available to those with high blood pressure. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Term Life | Whole Life |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 10–30 years | Lifetime coverage |
| Premiums | Lower (initially) | Higher but fixed |
| Cash Value | No | Yes |
| Hypertension Impact | More lenient underwriting options | May require better health ratings |
If you’re in your 40s or 50s and managing hypertension well, a term life policy may be the most cost-effective way to secure coverage.
Can You Be Denied Life Insurance for High Blood Pressure?
Yes, it is possible — but usually only in extreme or uncontrolled cases. Here are situations where an application might be declined:
- Blood pressure consistently over 160/100
- No evidence of treatment or lifestyle change
- Combination with other serious conditions like heart disease
- History of stroke or hospitalization related to hypertension
What To Do If Denied:
- Work with an independent broker who can shop multiple insurers
- Consider Guaranteed Issue or Simplified Issue policies
- Improve your condition and reapply after 6–12 months
Best Life Insurance Companies for High Blood Pressure (2025 Edition)
Some carriers are more flexible with high blood pressure than others. Here’s a shortlist:
| Insurance Company | Known For |
|---|---|
| Prudential | Lenient with mild to moderate hypertension |
| Mutual of Omaha | Good for seniors and pre-existing conditions |
| Protective | Fast approvals and digital applications |
| Banner Life | Accepts well-managed Stage 2 cases |
| AIG | Broad underwriting for complex cases |
Work with a broker who understands each carrier’s sweet spot — they can match you with the right one based on your medical profile.
Special Cases: What If You Have More Than Just High Blood Pressure?
🚬 Smokers with Hypertension
Expect higher premiums, but some companies separate tobacco from nicotine replacement therapy users.
💉 Diabetics with High Blood Pressure
This combination increases risk. You’ll want to show strong control of both conditions.
👴 Seniors Over 60 with Hypertension
Age compounds the risk, but policies are still available — often through guaranteed issue or final expense coverage.
How to Improve Your Chances (and Your Rates)
- Get a Checkup Before Applying
Have updated medical records showing improved BP. - Schedule Your Exam Smartly
Early in the day, avoid caffeine or stress. - Take Medications as Prescribed
Don’t skip doses — insurers look for compliance. - Eat Clean and Exercise
This shows proactive management, especially if weight/BMI is also a concern. - Stop Smoking
Quitting tobacco even 6–12 months before applying can move you into a better rate class.
FAQs About Life Insurance with High Blood Pressure
What is the blood pressure limit for life insurance?
Insurers generally prefer readings below 140/90. Anything higher may impact your risk class but won’t always disqualify you.
Can you be denied life insurance for high blood pressure?
Yes, especially if your condition is uncontrolled or combined with other major illnesses. But many applicants still qualify with mild to moderate hypertension.
Will high blood pressure affect life insurance?
Yes, it can raise premiums. But well-managed hypertension often results in standard or even preferred rates.
What disqualifies you from getting whole life insurance?
Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent strokes, organ damage, and refusal to seek treatment may result in denial or much higher premiums.
Final Thoughts: Secure Coverage Now, Improve Later
High blood pressure is manageable — and so are your life insurance options. The most important step is to take action now, even if your condition isn’t perfect. Many applicants wait until their health is “ideal,” only to pay more later due to age.
At Hotaling Insurance Services, we help clients navigate the life insurance process — even with pre-existing conditions like hypertension. Our advisors will shop the market to find the right policy for your situation.
Contact Hotaling Insurance Services today for a confidential life insurance consultation and get matched with insurers who understand your health profile.