Substance Usage

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Insurance companies will look at the history of use, medical side affects, driving and criminal history, if any, and current usage. Nominal use of alcohol, e.g., a glass of wine nightly typically does not impact underwriting decisions. However, changes in alcohol use will get raise a flag, either increases or decreases. Recent treatment until a waiting period has passed, lack of follow-through to recommended treatment, or concurrent use may be a bar to insurability. Some companies will allow nominal, incidental use of marijuana if declared on the application.

Best Class:
Individuals classified as substance abusers especially within the last 5-10 years will not find a broad market of companies interested in providing life insurance. It may be impossible to obtain any Preferred, the lowest premiums, classification and surcharges to regular premiums may apply. Life insurance may not be available if the abuse is ongoing.

Solutions:
1. Shop around. Companies respond differently based on their underwriting standards for the history.
2. Where a surcharge may be offered, have the broker submit applications to more than one company to get the lowest offer.

Note:
Term life insurance policies may not be available as companies may believe that only cash value plan will generate adequate premium for the contemplated risk.

Action:
Complete the Personalized Quote to begin the process to find the companies with the most liberal acceptance guidelines and lowest premiums for your status. If we cannot quote online, we will respond by email with the probable underwriting action and premium range within two business days.

Need Help?:
Make a no-obligation call to our quote desk to clarify you status before proceeding with the Personalized Quote or e-mail your question to us at info@choicequote.com

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