We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To help provide relief for Utah policyholders residing in Utah who were affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting July 31, 2025, and ending Sept. 29, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent weather:
To help provide relief for California policyholders residing in Humboldt, Mendocino, Modoc, Napa, Shasta, Sonoma, and Trinity Counties affected by the winter storms, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting Jan. 31, 2025, and ending Sept. 29, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent weather:
To help provide relief for North Dakota policyholders residing in North Dakota who were affected by the severe summer storms and tornadoes, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting June 21, 2025, and ending Aug. 20, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To help provide relief for Oregon policyholders residing in Oregon who were affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting July 16, 2025, and ending Sept. 15, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To help provide relief for Oregon policyholders residing in Crook County who were affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting July 12, 2025, and ending Sept. 10, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent flooding:
To help provide relief for Texas policyholders and/or certificate holders residing in Bandera, Bexar, Burnet, Caldwell, Coke, Comal, Concho, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Llano, Mason, McCulloch, Menard, Reeves, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis, and Williamson counties who were affected by the flooding, Aflac will provide an extended premium grace period starting July 2, 2025, and ending Sept. 8, 2025. This grace period also includes an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other actions required under the policy and/or certificate. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy and/or certificate upon request by the policyholder and/or certificate holder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also includes an extension of filing deadlines for claims; temporary relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability of in-network providers or member displacement; and leniency for any other actions required under the certificate.
Affected members should contact Aflac Benefits Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To help provide relief for Oregon policyholders residing in Klamath County who were affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting July 8, 2025, and ending Sept. 08, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To help provide relief for Oregon policyholders residing in Umatilla County who were affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting July 2, 2025, and ending Sept. 02, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To provide relief for New Mexico policyholiders and/or certificate holders residing in Grant County and affected by the Trout Fire, Aflac will provide the following protections for policyholders and/or certificate holders: Provide an extended premium grace period from Thursday, Jun. 12, 2025 through Monday, Sep. 15, 2025. Offer policyholders and/or certificate holders a payment plan of no less than six (6) months if unable to pay the delinquency after the extended day grace period (This applies to all coverages except life.). Work with policyholders and/or certificate holders on premium payments to prevent lapse and cancellation of policies. Waive late fees and penalties. Waive early refill time limits on active prescriptions. Allow additional time for actions required under the policy and/or certificate and the submission of documents due to limited access to service and mobility. Provide an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy and/or certificate. Provide a copy of the policy and/or certificate to the policyholder and/or certificate holder upon request.
In addition to the above, Aflac through Aflac Benefits Solutions will provide the following protections for Network Dental and Vision members and providers: Waive cost sharing and deductibles. Permit one eyeglass or contact lens replacement and one hearing aid replacement during the pendency of the Emergency Order, waiving frequency limitations. Permit one replacement for dentures or other prosthodontic devices during the pendency of this Emergency Order, waiving frequency limits. Waive additional fees, charges, referrals, eligibility and prior authorization requirements for medically necessary services, whether emergent or not. This applies to benefits and services obtained from both in- and out-of-network providers. Extend medical providers' reporting requirements for claims submissions and for additional information relating to claims. Fully reimburse out-of-network providers at the usual, customary, and reasonable rate.
Affected members should contact Aflac Dental and Vision (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To help provide relief for Oregon policyholders residing in Jefferson County who were affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting June 16, 2025, and ending Aug. 18, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To help provide relief for California policyholders residing in Los Angeles County affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting Dec. 9, 2024, and ending Aug. 18, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To help provide relief for Oregon policyholders residing in Wasco County who were affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide a premium grace period starting June 11, 2025, and ending Aug. 11, 2025. This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This grace period also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims; relaxation of prior authorization, precertification, and referral requirements; access to appropriate out-of-network providers due to unavailability on in-network providers or the members’ displacement; and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent weather:
To help provide relief for California policyholders residing in Trinity County affected by the Dec. 15, 2024, and Dec. 29, 2024, winter storms, Aflac will provide billing leniency for impacted insureds, an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder. Affected members should contact Aflac at 800-992-3522 for assistance.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. Affected members are not required to obtain prior approval when accessing appropriate out-of-network providers when in-network providers are unavailable. The cost-sharing for out-of-network will be in amount equal to cost-sharing affected members would have paid for the provision of that service in-network. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent levee failure:
To help provide relief for California policyholders residing in San Joaquin County affected by the Oct. 21, 2024, Victoria Island Levee failure, Aflac will provide billing leniency for impacted insureds, an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder. Affected members should contact Aflac at 800-992-3522 for assistance.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. Affected members are not required to obtain prior approval when accessing appropriate out-of-network providers when in-network providers are unavailable. The cost-sharing for out-of-network will be in amount equal to cost-sharing affected members would have paid for the provision of that service in-network. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
We care about Aflac’s policyholders affected by the recent wildfires:
To help provide relief for California policyholders residing in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties affected by the wildfires, Aflac will provide billing leniency for impacted insureds, an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the policy. Aflac will provide a replacement copy of the policy upon request by the policyholder. Affected members should contact Aflac at 800-992-3522 for assistance.
For Network Dental and Vision Members:
This also provides an extension of filing deadlines for claims and leniency for any other action required under the certificate. Affected members are not required to obtain prior approval when accessing appropriate out-of-network providers when in-network providers are unavailable. The cost-sharing for out-of-network will be in amount equal to cost-sharing affected members would have paid for the provision of that service in-network. A replacement copy of the certificate will be provided upon request by the certificate holder. Affected members should contact Aflac Benefit Solutions (formerly Argus Dental and Vision) at 855-819-1873, Option 1, for assistance.
Life insurance can benefit people from all backgrounds and stages of life. It can help you protect loved ones and, with some policies, enhance your financial planning.
People with pre-existing conditions may be unsure about whether they qualify for life insurance. Fortunately, pre-existing conditions don’t have to stop you from getting a life insurance policy. This article will explain how life insurance works for people with pre-existing conditions and offer some tips on maximizing your life insurance approval chances.
Table of Contents
A pre-existing condition is a medical condition you had known about, been diagnosed with, or received treated for prior to applying for an insurance policy. Common pre-existing conditions include:1
People with pre-existing conditions can still qualify for various life insurance policies. However, they may pay more in premiums because personal health history is a key factor that insurers use to calculate rates.1 Insurers must account for additional risk accompanying a pre-existing condition when making a policy decision.
Several factors impact your approval chances for life insurance with pre-existing conditions:2
The type of condition you have can significantly impact approval chances since the insurer evaluates the risk the condition entails and its likelihood of causing recurring issues. For example, cancer, heart disease, and other severe chronic illnesses are considered higher risk.
Even if you have a pre-existing condition, insurers evaluate how you manage that condition. If you are otherwise healthy and your condition is under control, you may more easily get approval and qualify for more favorable premiums. Demonstrating vigilant management of the condition, such as routine medical provider visits and regular medication usage, can reduce risk from the insurer’s point of view.
Premiums can increase and approval chances can decrease with age, given the same pre-existing condition. This is because younger people generally have a longer life expectancy, reducing the insurer’s risk.
Several lifestyle habits can influence approval chances in isolation and impact pre-existing conditions. For example, smokers with pre-existing conditions may have lower approval chances. On the other hand, demonstrating a healthy lifestyle, such as avoiding smoking and exercising regularly, can potentially increase approval chances.
A longer time from diagnosis can increase the chance of complications or other issues occurring. The insurer may scrutinize an application more closely if your diagnosis happened long ago.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Help cover yourself and your family with coverage from Aflac.
Get StartedPeople with pre-existing conditions have several life insurance options:
Following a few tips can increase your chances of getting life insurance with pre-existing conditions at rates that fit your budget:
Demonstrating adherence to your treatment plan shows the insurer you’re managing your condition and helps you stay healthy. Show insurers proof that you visit your health provider regularly, take any prescribed medication, and follow any other medical advice or instructions your health provider has given you.1
Regular exercise keeps you healthy overall. It offers numerous general health benefits and can reduce the risks or symptoms of your pre-existing condition. Evidence of regular exercise can further convince an insurer that you’re managing your condition and maximizing your health.3
Depending on your condition, losing weight can increase your chances of approval for a life insurance policy. This is because getting to a healthy weight can lead to a range of positive health effects, such as reduced blood pressure, better blood sugar, and a lower chance of developing other conditions. However, this is only true if you are considered overweight. Being underweight can also lead to health risks that may lead to issues with approval.3
Insurance coverage costs and terms for the same coverage can vary between insurers. Shopping around can help you find insurers willing to offer coverage to you despite a pre-existing condition. It can also help you compare quotes and choose the insurer offering the best rates and terms.2
If you don’t get approved for life insurance, you have several paths to take that could lead to an eventual approval in the future:
In some cases, simply waiting for your condition to improve can increase your chances. During this time, double down on following your treatment plan, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These become easier to manage once they become habits, and they could improve your condition. Document your health improvements as well, gathering medical records, test results, and doctor’s notes to show the insurer when you apply again. Keep in mind that you may have to wait a significant period, though. Insurers prefer to see a longer history of improvements, such as a year.
Insurers may offer an appeal process if denied. Sometimes, the denial is due to an error or lack of certain medical information. Appealing the denial while providing correct information with evidence may help overturn the denial. If there are no errors, appealing the policy may entail providing additional proof you’re managing your condition or other evidence that reduces your perceived risk.
Brokers specialize in helping their clients find life insurance. They typically earn a commission from the insurer if you buy a policy, incentivizing them to work hard on your behalf. Do some research on brokers by looking online or asking friends and family for recommendations to find one you can trust.
Guaranteed issue life insurance approves all applicants. Plus, there are no exams or medical questions. This makes the application process much simpler. Consider one of these policies if the smaller death benefit and cash value component suit your needs.
Having a pre-existing condition may result in paying higher life insurance premiums. However, taking steps to manage your condition, exercise, and lead a healthy lifestyle can improve your condition and make insurers more willing to offer you a policy. At Aflac, prospective policyholders with pre-existing conditions may qualify for several life insurance options. Speak with an agent today to discuss your options.
Get StartedLife insurance companies may require you to take a life insurance medical exam when getting a policy. Learn how the life insurance medical exam works.
Instant life insurance can give you coverage as soon as the same day you apply. Learn how an instant term life insurance policy works.
1 NerdWallet – How to Get Life Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions. Updated August 12, 2024. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/life-insurance-with-pre-existing-condition. Accessed April 14, 2025.
2 Bankrate – How to get life insurance with a pre-existing condition. Updated April 14, 2025. https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/life-insurance/pre-existing-conditions/. Accessed April 14, 2025.
3 SelectQuote – How a Healthy Lifestyle Could Help You Save Money on Life Insurance. Updated April 14, 2025. https://www.selectquote.com/life-insurance/articles/healthy-lifestyle-life-insurance. Accessed April 14, 2025.
Coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus. In New York, coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of New York.
68000 series: In Arkansas, Idaho, Oklahoma & Virginia, ICC1368100, ICC1368200, ICC1368300, ICC1368400. In Delaware, Policies A68100-A68400. B1000: In Arkansas, Idaho, Oklahoma & Virginia, Policies: ICC18B61JWO & ICC18B61JTO. In Delaware, Policies B61JWO, B61JTO. B60000: In Arkansas, Oklahoma, & Virginia, Policies: ICC18B60C10, ICC18B60100, ICC18B60200, ICC18B60300, & ICC18B60400. Q60000: Whole: In Arkansas, Delaware Policy Q60100M. In Idaho Policy Q60100MID. In Oklahoma, Policy Q60100MOK. Term: In Delaware, Policies Q60200M. In Arkansas, Idaho & Oklahoma Policies ICC18Q60200M.
Aflac Final Expense insurance coverage is underwritten by Tier One Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Aflac Incorporated and is administered by Aetna Life Insurance Company. Tier One Insurance Company is part of the Aflac family of insurers. In California, Tier One Insurance Company does business as Tier One Life Insurance Company (Tier One NAIC 92908). Not available in New York.
In Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho, Oklahoma & Virginia, Policies ICC21-AFLLBL21 and ICC21-AFLRPL21; and Riders ICC21-AFLABR22, ICC21-AFLADB22, and ICC21-AFLCDR22.
Content within this article is provided for general informational purposes and is not provided as tax, legal, health, or financial advice for any person or for any specific situation. Employers, employees, and other individuals should contact their own advisers about their situations. For complete details, including availability and costs of Aflac insurance, please contact your local Aflac agent.
Coverage may not be available in all states, including but not limited to DE, ID, NJ, NM, NY, VA or VT. Benefits/premium rates may vary based on state and plan levels. Optional riders may be available at an additional cost. Policies and riders may also contain a waiting period. Refer to the exact policy and rider forms for benefit details, definitions, limitations and exclusions.
Receipt of accelerated death benefits may affect eligibility for public assistance programs. Benefits may also be taxable and are not expected to receive the same favorable tax treatment as other types of accelerated death benefits that may be available.
Aflac | Tier One | WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999
Aflac New York | 22 Corporate Woods Boulevard, Suite 2 | Albany, NY 12211
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