Part of our guide: Impaired Risk Life Insurance Underwriting by Condition →
Clients who take care of their health should get credit for it. One top carrier’s wellness program does exactly that, automatically upgrading qualifying clients by up to one rate class.
Key takeaways
- The program is open to all ages and face amounts on most of the carrier’s products.
- Qualifying clients can move up one class, including from Preferred to Preferred Plus, and substandard ratings can improve too.
- Criteria include healthy BMI, low untreated blood pressure, favorable family history, up-to-date screenings, and excellent A1C.
Healthy habits can move a client up a full rate class — from Preferred to Preferred Plus, or out of a table rating.
How the program works
The carrier reviews lifestyle and health markers during underwriting. Clients who meet the criteria may be credited up to one classification, whether moving from Preferred to Preferred Plus or improving a substandard rating.
Sample criteria
- BMI between 22 and 29 (ages 18+)
- Untreated blood pressure below 120/80
- No coronary artery disease, diabetes, or cancer in parents or siblings before age 60, or both parents living to 75+
- Normal routine screenings (colonoscopy, mammogram, pap smear, CBC, skin checks) within the last three years
- Hemoglobin A1C between 5.0 and 5.5 in the last 12 months
Program details can change; confirm current criteria with our team.
Related programs
Other carriers use different credit approaches; see lifestyle and fitness credits and one-class upgrade programs.
Frequently asked questions
What are wellness credits in life insurance?
Credits some carriers apply for healthy habits and test results, which can improve a client’s rate class.
Can a healthy lifestyle lower my life insurance premium?
Yes. With some carriers, favorable BMI, blood pressure, screenings, and lab results can move you up a rate class.
Do up-to-date cancer screenings help life insurance?
At some carriers, normal routine screenings within the last three years count toward wellness credits.
Reviewed by Tim Fuller on 2026-09-25
Tim Fuller
President, SRS Inc.
Tim leads SRS Inc., a full-service IMO (Independent Marketing Organization) and BGA (Brokerage General Agency), connecting independent financial professionals with life, annuity, disability income, and long-term care solutions from 60+ carrier partners.
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