How to get life insurance with depression

This article was reviewed by Andrew Flueckiger, a member of the Finder Editorial Review Board and certified insurance counselor and licensed insurance agent in five states.

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Shopping for life insurance can be an intimidating process, especially when it comes to the medical evaluation. Part of that exam will likely have questions about your mental health — including any history of anxiety and depression. But having either likely won’t get you denied outright, and if it’s well-managed you may not see a difference in rates.

Can I get life insurance if I’ve been diagnosed with depression?

Yes, but your rates will depend on your history of depression. Low-risk candidates with a short or mild history of depression, one or no medications and no hospitalizations will be able to get a policy at a competitive rate.

If you’re considered medium risk, you may have to pay a higher premium or agree to a shorter term for your policy. High-risk applicants can be denied insurance, particularly if there are other health risks involved.

How to get life insurance with depression

Taking out insurance if you have a history of depression requires:

• Show you’re following your doctor’s orders. If you’ve been prescribed medication or therapy, you’re more likely to be approved if you can show you’ve been following your doctor’s orders. A history of noncompliance can result in a denied application.
• Include your complete medical record. Your insurance company will want to know what medications you’ve tried, how many medications you’re currently on, whether you’ve ever been hospitalized and whether you’ve experienced physical side effects from depression or been diagnosed with an associated illness.
• Answer with honesty. It’s important that you disclose anything that might impact your insurance policy. Failure to disclose such details might lead to your beneficiary having their claim denied.

What questions will my insurer ask about my depression?

Be prepared to answer these questions:

• What are your symptoms of depression?
• Is there a history of depression in your family?
• Have you been diagnosed with any other mental illness?
• When did you first experience symptoms and did they happen as a result of something specific?
• How many episodes of depression do you experience and how long do they typically last?
• Have you been hospitalized as a result of depression?
• Have you received treatment for this condition? If so, what type?
• Are you still receiving treatment? If not, what was the last date of treatment?
• Have depression symptoms forced you to take time off work or impacted your ability to perform work duties?
• Have you contemplated or attempted suicide?

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Bottom line

As doctors learn more about depression, insurers are becoming more knowledgeable and it’s becoming easier to get coverage at a decent rate. Shop around and compare life insurance companies to find one that offers a policy in line with your budget and your needs.

Counseling services for people suffering from depression

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Call 800-273-8255 at any time, 24/7, if you’re experiencing a mental health crisis.
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline. Call 800-662-4357 at any time, 24/7, for information on mental health services. Counselors are available in both English and Spanish.

Frequently asked questions

• What options do I have if I'm denied coverage?

  If you’re denied, you may have more luck with a different insurer. Each insurer has unique underwriting guidelines, which means that a different company may consider you a lower risk.

  You can also wait before applying again. If you were recently diagnosed, had a change in medication or were hospitalized in the past year, you’ll be more likely to be accepted if you wait at least a year before reapplying.

• What happens if I'm diagnosed with depression after I take out life insurance?

  Any medical conditions you’re diagnosed with after your policy is finalized typically won’t affect your life insurance. That’s another reason it can be a good idea to open a policy when you’re younger and healthier.

• Can claims be denied for depression or suicide?

  If you don’t pay your premiums or you didn’t disclose important information to your insurer — such as a diagnosis not included in your paperwork — the claim can be denied.

  Some insurers also exclude suicide from coverage, but that’s typically only within the first two years.

• Will postpartum depression affect my ability to get life insurance?

  It largely depends on the individual life insurance company. Some insurance companies may treat it the same as other forms of depression, largely because not as much research on postpartum depression is available. Others may not factor it in at all.

  You may find it helpful to work with an independent agent or insurance broker to find the best company for your needs at a good rate, especially if you’ve experienced postpartum depression.