Guide
Build charts vary. Let's find yours.
Weight affects life insurance rates, but it does not disqualify you from coverage. Many people with a high BMI qualify for traditional policies, and options exist at any weight. Carriers also vary significantly in their build tables.
What Insurers Look At
BMI is one input in a bigger picture.
Your BMI
Insurance build tables are often more lenient than medical standards. Someone considered overweight by CDC guidelines may still qualify for Preferred rates.
Overall Health
Blood pressure, cholesterol, and A1C matter more than BMI alone. Someone with a high BMI but normal labs often qualifies for competitive rates.
Weight Stability
Recent weight changes may be averaged over 12 months. A stable weight history is viewed more favorably than recent fluctuations.
Related Conditions
Sleep apnea, diabetes, or high blood pressure affect rates more than BMI alone. Weight without complications is easier to insure.
BMI and Your Rate
Typical rate classes by BMI range.
| BMI Range | Typical Rate Class |
|---|---|
| 18.5-24.9 | Preferred Plus (best rates at most carriers) |
| 25-29 | Preferred or Standard Plus (varies by carrier) |
| 30-32 | Standard or Table 1 (Class 1 obesity) |
| 33-38 | Table 2-4 ratings typical (50-100% above Standard) |
| 39-45 | Table 4-8 ratings; some carriers decline |
| 46+ | Traditional coverage difficult; simplified or guaranteed issue |
These are typical ranges. Carriers vary significantly. Someone rated Standard at one carrier might get Preferred at another.
Understanding Table Ratings
How substandard ratings work.
If you don't qualify for Standard rates, you may receive a table rating. Each table adds approximately 25% to the Standard premium.
Table 2 means paying about 50% more than Standard. Table 4 means double. A table rating is still an approval, just at a higher premium.
Table rating premium impact
- ✓ Table 1: 25% above Standard
- ✓ Table 2: 50% above Standard
- ✓ Table 4: 100% above Standard (double)
- ✓ Table 8: 200% above Standard (triple)
Your Options
Coverage options at different BMI levels.
BMI 30-35
Fully underwritten term and whole life available. Expect Standard to Table 2 ratings depending on other health factors. This is Class 1 obesity range. Shopping multiple carriers is important since build tables vary significantly.
BMI 35-45
Traditional coverage is more challenging but possible with specialized high-risk carriers. Table 4-8 ratings are common. Simplified issue (no exam, health questions only) is a viable alternative with coverage up to $500K at some carriers.
BMI 45+
Few traditional carriers approve at this level. Guaranteed issue policies accept everyone regardless of weight, though with lower coverage limits ($5K-$50K) and higher premiums. Final expense insurance is also an option.
Why Carrier Choice Matters
Build tables vary dramatically between carriers. One company's decline is another's Table 4.
Drew Napolin, CLU works with multiple carriers and can identify which ones have the most favorable build tables for your height and weight. This can mean the difference between a decline and an approval.
Find out what you qualify for.
There's a carrier for every BMI. Let's find the one that fits yours.