Key takeaway
You can get life insurance near you in Canada with no medical exam through simplified issue, guaranteed issue, or accelerated underwriting products — all available online from major carriers.
Three types of no-medical life insurance
Simplified issue: no exam, but you answer health questions. Coverage up to $500K–$1M depending on the carrier. Rates are 10–30% higher than fully underwritten policies.
Guaranteed issue: no exam, no health questions. Coverage is typically capped at $25K–$50K with a 2-year waiting period for natural causes. Rates are the highest of any life insurance type.
Accelerated underwriting: no exam, but the carrier checks medical databases electronically. Rates are only 5–10% above fully underwritten prices. Available from carriers like Manulife and Sun Life for qualifying profiles.
Who qualifies for no-medical options
Simplified issue is available to most applicants under age 65–70 who can answer health questions truthfully. Conditions like controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, or previous cancer may still be eligible depending on the carrier.
Guaranteed issue is available to almost everyone, typically ages 40–80, regardless of health. The tradeoff is lower coverage amounts and a graded benefit period.
Cost comparison: no-medical vs fully underwritten
For a healthy 40-year-old non-smoker seeking $500K of 20-year term: fully underwritten might cost $38/month, simplified issue $45–$50/month, and accelerated underwriting $40–$42/month.
If you're healthy enough to qualify for preferred rates, the fully underwritten option is usually worth the exam. If speed or convenience is the priority, accelerated underwriting offers the best price-to-speed ratio.
How to compare no-medical options near you
Use an online comparison tool and filter for no-medical products. Not all carriers offer the same no-medical pathways, so comparing across 50+ providers reveals which ones give the best combination of coverage, speed, and price.
Pay attention to waiting periods, coverage caps, and exclusions — these vary significantly between simplified and guaranteed issue products.
Frequently asked questions
Is no-medical life insurance more expensive?
Usually yes, by 10–30% for simplified issue compared to fully underwritten. Accelerated underwriting is only 5–10% more and is the best option for healthy applicants who want speed.
Can I get $1M of no-medical coverage?
Some carriers offer simplified issue up to $1M, though $500K is more common. Guaranteed issue products are typically capped at $25K–$50K.
What is a waiting period?
Guaranteed issue policies often have a 2-year period during which the death benefit for natural causes is limited to a return of premiums paid. After 2 years, full coverage applies.
Should I take the medical exam if I can?
If you're in good health, yes. A fully underwritten policy with a medical exam typically offers the lowest rate and highest coverage options.