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Life Insurance For Diabetics Type 1

  • Life insurance available for type 1 diabetics
  • Specialist impaired risk underwriting
  • HbA1c levels and control affect premiums
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Life Insurance For Diabetics Type 1

Comprehensive 2026 guide to life insurance for type 1 diabetics. Yes, you CAN get life insurance with type 1 diabetes from specialist impaired risk insurers. With around 400,000 people living with type 1 diabetes in the UK (one of the highest rates globally), insurers are experienced with type 1 applications. Premium loadings typically range from 50-150%+ depending on HbA1c levels (target <58 mmol/mol for best rates), complications (eye, kidney, nerve, cardiovascular issues), control quality, and time since diagnosis. Our specialist impaired risk team with 15+ years experience knows which insurers offer the most competitive rates for type 1 diabetics. Full medical disclosure essential - be prepared to provide HbA1c readings, treatment details, and complication history.

By: Rob Rutherford Impaired Risk Specialist Updated: 6th January 2026

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A complete guide to life insurance for diabetics (type 1)

Yes, it could be possible to secure life insurance as a type 1 diabetic.

The UK has one of the highest rates for type 1 diabetes in the world, with around 400,000 people currently living with the condition[1].

Due to this, UK insurers are used to handling applications from type 1 diabetics.

However, your eligibility for cover and the price you cover your monthly life insurance premium will likely be affected by your condition.

For this reason, it's essential to compare multiple quotes to find the most suitable life insurance cover.

LifePro are an award-winning and FCA-regulated broker who can help you compare prices from top UK insurers.

We do this to assist you find the right cover, at the best price we can offer. Simply contact us for your free quotes today.

How much life insurance do type 1 diabetics need?

calculate how much life insurance you may need based on your current financial commitments and what you want your policy to cover. Simply complete the fields which apply to you for an instant calculation.

The amount of life insurance you need depends on your financial obligations and what you want to provide for your loved ones. A common rule of thumb is to have cover worth 10 times your annual salary, though your individual circumstances may require more or less.

Consider the following when calculating your life insurance needs:

  • Outstanding mortgage balance
  • Other debts and loans
  • Income replacement for your family (typically 5-10 years of salary)
  • Children's education costs
  • Funeral expenses (typically £4,000-£10,000)
  • Any specific financial goals for your dependents

For example, if you have a £200,000 mortgage, earn £40,000 per year, and want to provide 10 years of income replacement, you might need around £600,000 of cover (£200,000 + (£40,000 × 10)).

Use our free comparison tool to get personalised quotes from 50+ UK insurers, including Life Insurance For Diabetics Type 1, and find the right level of cover for your needs at the best available price.

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Why should type 1 diabetics secure cover through LifePro?

  • Whole-of-market comparison from 50+ UK insurers
  • Expert advice from FCA-regulated advisors
  • No extra cost - insurers pay our commission
  • Fast quotes in 60 seconds
  • Support throughout your policy lifetime

What is the best life insurance for type 1 diabetics?

The best life insurance for someone with type 1 diabetes will be a policy that best meets your needs and is at the right price.

The options available to you will be no different to a standard applicant, however your condition could have an impact on your application.

These options available to you include:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get life insurance with type 1 diabetes?

Yes, type 1 diabetics can get life insurance from specialist impaired risk insurers. Your application will be assessed individually based on: HbA1c levels (target <58 mmol/mol for best rates), Time since diagnosis (recent diagnosis may face delays), Complications (eye, kidney, nerve, cardiovascular issues increase premiums), Control (well-managed diabetes gets better rates). Premium loadings typically range from 50-150%+ depending on these factors.

How much does life insurance cost for type 1 diabetics?

Type 1 diabetes significantly increases premiums compared to standard rates. Example: A 35-year-old non-smoker might pay £10/month for £200,000 cover. With type 1 diabetes: Well-controlled (HbA1c <58): £15-25/month (50-150% higher), Poor control or complications: £30-50/month (200-400% higher), Recent diagnosis or severe complications: May face decline or extremely high premiums. Costs vary widely by insurer - comparison essential.

What information will insurers need about my diabetes?

Insurers will ask detailed questions about your type 1 diabetes: Recent HbA1c readings (last 12 months), Date of diagnosis and age at diagnosis, Current treatment (insulin type, dosage, frequency), Hypoglycemic episodes (frequency and severity), Complications (retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy), Hospital admissions for diabetic emergencies, Other health conditions. Be prepared to provide medical records or GP reports for underwriting.

Will I need a medical exam?

Possibly. For type 1 diabetes applications: Small cover amounts (under £100,000): May only need medical questionnaire and HbA1c records. Larger cover (£100,000+): Medical exam likely required including blood tests, urine tests, blood pressure, height/weight. Some insurers always require exams for diabetes regardless of cover amount. The exam helps insurers assess your current health and may result in better premiums if your control is excellent.

What if I've had diabetic complications?

Complications significantly impact life insurance for type 1 diabetics: Minor complications (early retinopathy, mild neuropathy): Premium loadings of 150-250%. Moderate complications (laser eye treatment, kidney issues, foot problems): Loadings of 250-400%+ or potential decline. Severe complications (dialysis, amputations, heart disease, stroke): Most insurers decline, guaranteed acceptance over-50s plans may be only option. Even with complications, specialist impaired risk brokers can often find cover.

How can I get cheaper life insurance with type 1 diabetes?

Tips to reduce premiums for type 1 diabetics: 1) Maintain excellent HbA1c control (aim for <58 mmol/mol), 2) Attend all diabetes appointments and follow treatment plans, 3) Avoid hypoglycemic episodes and hospital admissions, 4) Don't smoke (already paying extra for diabetes - smoking doubles it), 5) Manage other risk factors (weight, blood pressure, cholesterol), 6) Use specialist impaired risk brokers who know diabetes-friendly insurers, 7) Consider shorter terms or family income benefit (cheaper than level term).

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