Part of our guide: Impaired Risk Life Insurance Underwriting by Condition →
Type 2 diabetes treated with diet and oral medication, such as metformin, is one of the most common impairments on life applications. Combined with a heavier build, it often starts as a table rating. With the right carrier, credits can bring that down significantly.
Key takeaways
- Type 2 diabetes with diet and oral medication only, good control, and no complications may reach Standard Plus at some carriers for clients 50 and older.
- Build combined with diabetes usually worsens the rating, but credits can offset it.
- A 54-year-old woman with Type 2 diabetes and a heavier build went from Table 4 to Table 2 with credits.
Initial workup: Table 4. After credits for non-smoking, driving record, cardiac testing and blood pressure: Table 2.
What helps a Type 2 case
- Treatment with diet and oral medication only, rather than insulin
- Stable, good A1C readings over time
- No complications such as kidney, eye, nerve, or heart disease
- Controlled blood pressure and cholesterol
- Diagnosis at an older age
Some carriers may offer Standard Plus to clients 50 and older with excellent control, diet and oral medication only, and no complications.
Case study: credits make the difference
- 54-year-old female, non-tobacco, applying for $1 million of term
- Type 2 diabetes treated with metformin
- 5’3”, 220 lbs
- Initial workup: Table 4
One A+ carrier applied credits for being a lifetime non-smoker, income over $100,000, a preferred-or-better driving record, negative cardiac testing, and controlled blood pressure. Final offer: Table 2.
Shop carriers with credit programs
Not every carrier applies lifestyle and health credits. Knowing which ones do can save your client meaningful premium. See underwriting upgrade programs and how A1C affects ratings.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get life insurance with Type 2 diabetes?
Yes. Many Type 2 diabetics qualify for Standard or better with good control and no complications, depending on the carrier.
Does taking metformin affect life insurance rates?
Metformin itself isn’t the issue; underwriters look at diabetic control, complications, and other risk factors.
What are underwriting credits?
Positive factors, such as non-smoking, good driving record, or favorable cardiac tests, that some carriers use to improve a rating.
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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