Life insurance with a medical condition, hazardous occupation or unusual hobby needs an individual assessment. A higher-risk description does not automatically mean cover is unavailable, and one insurer’s decision need not match another’s.
What the insurer considers
Health history, medication, current investigations, age, nicotine, benefit amount, duration and actual work or activities may all be relevant. Insurers use different underwriting criteria. There is no universal loading or acceptance threshold for a job title or diagnosis.
Prepare a clear application
Have dates, treatment details and relevant follow-up information available. Describe duties and activities accurately, including height, machinery, travel or specialist tasks where asked. Disclose existing and pending applications as requested; do not split or omit information to avoid evidence.
Possible terms
An initial online quote is subject to underwriting. The insurer may request more information, change the premium or terms, postpone a decision or decline. Answer questions about health, medication, nicotine, occupation and activities accurately, including existing and pending cover when asked. Do not cancel an existing policy until any appropriate replacement is confirmed in force.
Life cover and other benefits are different
Critical illness and income protection have different claims and underwriting rules. A life offer does not establish that every other benefit will be available. Read critical illness cover and income protection.
Find the relevant guidance
See higher BMI applications, diabetes and life insurance, cover after cancer and medical evidence requirements.
Choosing an appropriate amount
Use our cover planning guide before comparing prices. Older applicants can read life insurance over 60 or discuss whole-of-life protection where a lasting need exists.
Compare your options
You can compare life insurance quotes online and ask our advisers for help with the next step. Initial quotations are subject to the insurer assessing the application. Cover begins only when the insurer confirms the policy is in force; completing a form or receiving a quote does not start cover.
Editorial note
A useful underwriting enquiry starts with the actual circumstances, not a label such as high risk. The aim is to understand available cover and final terms without making promises the insurer has not confirmed.
Jody Pearmain is Director of My Key Finance Ltd. About our advice service and editorial approach.
Updated October 2026. General information, not a personal recommendation or a quotation. Eligibility, exclusions, premiums and tax treatment depend on the policy and individual circumstances. Discount Life Cover is a trading style of My Key Finance Ltd, authorised and regulated by the FCA, FRN 628996.
Further information: MoneyHelper: life insurance.