Guide
High blood pressure? Still insurable.
High blood pressure is one of the most common health conditions, and insurers are used to underwriting it. Controlled hypertension often qualifies for standard rates. What matters most is how well you manage it.
What Insurers Look At
The factors that determine your rate.
Your BP Reading
Below 140/90 on treatment is considered controlled. Below 130/80 may qualify for Preferred rates at some carriers.
Control History
Insurers want 6-12 months of documented stable readings. Multiple good readings matter more than one exam-day result.
Medications
One medication with good control is viewed favorably. Two medications is generally acceptable. Three or more may result in higher ratings.
Complications
Heart attack history, stroke, or kidney damage significantly affect rates. Hypertension alone without complications is much easier to insure.
Blood Pressure and Your Rate
What to expect based on your readings.
| Blood Pressure | Typical Rate Class |
|---|---|
| Below 130/80 | Preferred Plus or Preferred (if no medications, under 60) |
| Below 135/85 on medication | Preferred rates at many carriers |
| Below 140/90 on treatment | Standard rates (most common threshold) |
| 140-160 / 90-100 | Table ratings (25-75% above standard) |
| Above 160/100 | Higher table ratings or postponement |
Readings above 180/120 (hypertensive crisis) typically result in decline from traditional coverage. Simplified or guaranteed issue may still be available.
Controlled Hypertension
Well-controlled blood pressure on medication is viewed favorably by insurers. The diagnosis itself matters less than how well you manage it.
If your readings are consistently below 140/90 on a stable medication regimen, you have a good chance at Standard rates or better.
Uncontrolled Hypertension
Readings above 160/100 despite treatment indicate poorly controlled hypertension. This results in higher table ratings or possible decline.
If your blood pressure is not yet controlled, consider waiting 6-12 months after achieving stable readings before applying.
Complicating Factors
What else affects your rate.
High blood pressure rarely exists in isolation. Insurers weigh your overall cardiovascular picture: cholesterol, weight, family history, medications.
Factors that increase rates
- ✓ Heart attack or stroke history
- ✓ Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) on EKG
- ✓ Kidney damage or elevated creatinine
- ✓ Diabetes or high cholesterol
- ✓ Smoking or higher BMI
Why Carrier Choice Matters
Carriers vary in how they underwrite blood pressure. Some are more aggressive on hypertension than others.
Drew Napolin, CLU works with multiple carriers and can identify which ones are most favorable for your specific BP readings and medication regimen.
Find out what you qualify for.
Controlled blood pressure is insurable. Let's find the right coverage for your situation.