Life Insurance for Diabetics in Canada — Your Options
Over 3.4 million Canadians live with diabetes, and all of them can get life insurance. Your options and rates depend on your type of diabetes, A1C levels, medications, and overall health management. Comparing providers is especially important because insurer guidelines vary widely.
50+
Providers
3 min
To compare
$450
Avg. annual savings
4.8★
Customer rating
How diabetes affects life insurance underwriting
Insurers evaluate diabetic applicants based on type of diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, or gestational), A1C levels (ideally under 7.5%), current medications and treatment plan, age at diagnosis, and whether complications (retinopathy, neuropathy, kidney disease) are present.
Well-managed Type 2 diabetes with A1C below 7.0% and no complications can qualify for near-standard rates with some insurers. Type 1 diabetes typically results in rated (higher) premiums, but coverage is available up to $1M+ with the right provider.
Which insurers offer the best rates for diabetics?
Underwriting guidelines for diabetes vary significantly between insurers. Some providers specialize in preferred rates for well-managed diabetics, while others apply steep surcharges. This makes comparing quotes essential — the same diabetic applicant can see a 50–100% price difference between providers.
Manulife, Sun Life, and Canada Life all offer competitive options for Type 2 diabetics. For Type 1, Empire Life and Industrial Alliance (iA Financial) are known for more favourable underwriting. LowestRates.io compares all of them so you see every option.
| Profile | Est. Monthly Rate |
|---|---|
| Type 2, A1C <7 (age 35) | $40–$65/mo |
| Type 2, A1C 7–8 (age 35) | $55–$90/mo |
| Type 1 (age 35) | $70–$120/mo |
| Type 2, A1C <7 (age 45) | $75–$115/mo |
| Type 2, A1C 7–8 (age 45) | $100–$160/mo |
| Type 1 (age 45) | $130–$210/mo |
Estimates for a healthy non-smoker. Your rate may vary. Get your personalized quote.
No medical exam options for diabetics
Simplified issue policies skip the blood test and paramedical exam, which can be advantageous if your A1C has been fluctuating. Coverage is typically limited to $100,000–$500,000. Premiums are higher than fully underwritten policies, but approval is faster and health scrutiny is reduced.
If you're in Toronto or the GTA, you have access to every provider that offers simplified issue coverage. Comparing 50+ providers ensures you find the most competitive option for your situation.
How It Works
Answer a few questions
Basic info about yourself and your coverage needs. Under 3 minutes.
Compare quotes
See personalized rates from 50+ Canadian providers, side by side.
Choose & save
Pick the lowest rate and apply online or speak with a licensed advisor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can diabetics get life insurance in Canada?
▾
Yes. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics can get life insurance in Canada. Rates depend on your A1C levels, medication, age at diagnosis, and whether complications are present. Well-managed Type 2 diabetics often qualify for near-standard rates.
How much more do diabetics pay for life insurance?
▾
Diabetics typically pay 25–100% more than standard rates, depending on management and type. A well-controlled Type 2 diabetic (A1C < 7.0%) may pay only 25–50% more. Type 1 diabetics or those with complications can pay 75–150% more.
Does insulin use affect life insurance rates?
▾
Yes. Insulin-dependent diabetics (Type 1 and some Type 2) typically pay higher rates than those managing with diet, exercise, or oral medication alone. However, consistent insulin management with good A1C results is viewed favourably.
Related Pages
Explore More
Compare life insurance quotes from 50+ Canadian providers.
Free quotes in under 3 minutes. No obligation. Lowest rates guaranteed.
Join 26,000+ Canadians who found the lowest rates for life insurance