Understanding the Challenges for Cigar and Pipe Smokers
Cigar and pipe smokers face unique challenges when selecting a term insurance policy that fits their budget. Finding affordable life insurance for cigar smokers can be particularly challenging for the inexperienced. Unlike cigarette and chewing tobacco users, many individuals don’t consider occasional cigar or pipe smoking as “smoking.” However, life insurers always ask about smoking and typically order a urine test to detect nicotine before offering or issuing a policy.
In many cases, cigar and pipe smokers find that life insurance companies have strict requirements to qualify as non-smokers. Nonetheless, several companies are more understanding regarding cigar smoking when purchasing life insurance. Understanding the nuances of how different insurers view cigar smoking can help you find the best rates.
Why Life Insurance Companies Are Strict About Smoking
Life insurance companies consider smoking a significant risk factor due to its well-documented health impacts. While occasional cigar smoking might seem harmless to some, insurers view any tobacco use as a potential health risk. This leads to higher premiums for smokers compared to non-smokers. The strict requirements are primarily due to the increased risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and respiratory conditions associated with tobacco use.
Nicotine Testing and Disclosure
When you apply for life insurance, insurers typically require a medical exam that includes a urine test to detect nicotine. It’s essential to disclose your smoking habits accurately. Some insurers may be more lenient with occasional cigar smokers if full disclosure is made upfront. This honesty can prevent future complications or policy cancellations if nicotine is detected during routine tests.
Finding Understanding Insurers
Although many insurers have stringent policies regarding tobacco use, there are companies known for their leniency towards cigar smokers. For instance, Prudential and Lincoln Financial are often mentioned as more accommodating, offering non-smoker rates to individuals who smoke cigars occasionally. It’s beneficial to research and identify such companies or consult with an insurance broker who has experience dealing with cigar smokers.
Strategies for Lowering Premiums
- Honesty Is Crucial: Always be honest about your smoking habits during the application process. Full disclosure helps in finding the best possible rates and prevents issues later on.
- Frequency Matters: The frequency of cigar smoking can influence your premiums. Insurers may offer better rates to those who smoke cigars less frequently.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can offset some of the risks associated with smoking. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing any existing health conditions can positively impact your insurance rates.
- Compare Quotes: Shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurers to find the best rate. Some insurers have more favorable policies towards cigar smokers.
- Use a Broker: Insurance brokers with experience in dealing with cigar smokers can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the application process effectively.
By understanding the specific challenges cigar and pipe smokers face and knowing how to navigate them, you can find affordable life insurance that meets your needs. Remember, the key is to be informed, honest, and proactive in your approach to securing the best possible rates.
Why Are Life Insurance Rates Higher for Cigar and Pipe Smokers?
Even though most cigar and pipe smokers do not inhale and their use is less frequent than cigarette smokers, health issues along with nicotine addiction are typically manifested. According to WebMD, significant health risks associated with smoking cigars and pipes include:
Cancer
Whether you inhale or not, it is possible to develop different kinds of cancer as a result of smoking cigars or pipes. Regular cigar smokers are more likely to die from mouth, larynx, or esophagus cancers. Oral cancers can develop anywhere cigar or pipe smoke touches. Inhaling increases the risk of lung, pancreatic, and bladder cancers.
Lung Diseases
Pipe smoking and cigar smoking can double the smoker’s risk for airway damage, leading to lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Smoking tobacco products can also exacerbate existing asthma.
Heart Disease
Smoking pipes or cigars significantly increases the risk of developing heart disease or suffering a stroke. Smoking tobacco can raise the risk of early death from heart disease by at least 30%.
Teeth and Mouth Issues
Tobacco use can cause damaged teeth, diseased gums, tobacco-stained teeth, bad breath, and possible tooth loss. A recent study indicated that cigar and pipe smokers, on average, have four missing teeth due to smoking.
Actual Rate Chart for Life Insurance for Cigar Smokers
Understanding the variability in underwriting for cigar and pipe smokers is crucial. The frequency of smoking plays a significant role in rate classification. Here is a rate chart for male cigar smokers at various ages, showing rates from different insurance companies. These rates are for a 20 year term policy in the amount of $500,000.
| Male Age | Protective | Transamerica | Lincoln | Prudential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | $18.36 | $18.70 | $19.23 | $23.63 |
| 35 | $20.17 | $20.40 | $23.62 | $28.00 |
| 45 | $45.41 | $46.33 | $51.97 | $51.19 |
| 55 | $112.56 | $114.33 | $117.05 | $135.19 |
| 65 | $380.15 | $451.78 | $406.80 | $491.32 |
These rates are based on a healthy non-cigarette smoker who fits within the height and weight parameters set forth by the company. Medical exams and blood/urine tests are typically part of the underwriting process.
For accurate rates based on your age and gender, please use our life insurance calculator on this page.
Top Life Insurance Companies for Cigar Smokers
Protective Life Insurance for Cigar Smokers
Protective considers applicants for Preferred Plus rates when cigar use is less than six annually. They also consider Preferred rates if you smoke no more than twelve per year.
Lincoln Financial Life Insurance for Cigar Smokers
Lincoln Financial offers competitive rates with less strict underwriting guidelines. They classify cigarette smokers as “smoker risks,” while other tobacco users are classified as non-smokers.
Prudential Life Insurance for Cigar Smokers
Prudential is the most liberal regarding tobacco underwriting, offering preferred or preferred plus rates for cigar or pipe smokers. Always check with multiple companies to find the best rates. Start by using the life insurance calculator on this page.
Underwriting Life Insurance for Cigar Smokers
The cheapest life insurance rates for cigar and pipe smokers involve a thorough underwriting process. Companies offering accelerated underwriting (no medical exam) may still require exams and labs. The underwriting process typically includes:
- Completing the life insurance application.
- Submitting to an insurance exam and blood/urine test.
- Agreeing to a report from the Medical Information Bureau.
- Agreeing to a report from a national prescription drug database.
- Agreeing to a Motor Vehicle Report from a national database.
- Other requirements may apply depending on your death benefit and policy purpose.
We can help cigar smokers find cheap life insurance. Start by using the life insurance calculator on this page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get life insurance if I smoke the occasional cigar?
Yes, but your rates and classifications will depend on the frequency and honesty of your tobacco use disclosure. Some companies offer better rates for occasional cigar smokers.
Which companies will sell life insurance to a cigar or pipe smoker?
Top companies include Lincoln, Protective Life, and Prudential. An independent life insurance agent can help you find the best carrier for your needs.
Why is it harder to get life insurance if you smoke cigars or a pipe?
It is not harder but might cost you more than a non-smoker. Smoking cigars or pipes increases health risks such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, and dental issues. While you may pay higher premiums, various options are available depending on your health and smoking frequency.
