Part of our guide: Impaired Risk Life Insurance Underwriting by Condition →
Research consistently shows that fit people who live healthy lifestyles tend to live longer, even with minor health issues. One carrier puts that into practice by scoring lifestyle factors and using the score to improve ratings on permanent cases.
Key takeaways
- The carrier scores lifestyle factors and medical tests from records for applicants through age 70.
- The score can improve the underwriting class or offset a table rating on permanent products.
- A 64-year-old business owner with Type 2 diabetes moved from Table 2 to Standard Plus Non-Nicotine: a three-class upgrade.
Initial offer: Table 2. After credits for exercise, no nicotine, and normal screenings: Standard Plus Non-Nicotine.
How the credits work
During underwriting, the carrier reviews medical records for specific lifestyle factors and test results, scores each one, and uses the total to improve the class or offset a table rating.
Case study
- 64-year-old male business owner, 5’11”, 195 lbs
- Applying for $1.2 million of universal life
- Non-insulin-dependent (Type 2) diabetes, with good A1C control over five years
- Initial offer: Table 2
Credits applied for: never using nicotine, regular aerobic exercise four times a week documented in his physician’s records, a normal colonoscopy, and normal PSA testing. Final offer: Standard Plus Non-Nicotine.
Why documentation matters
Credits depend on what’s in the medical records. Encourage clients to discuss exercise and keep screenings current with their doctors, so the evidence is there. See documenting health improvements and diabetes underwriting.
Frequently asked questions
Does exercise help with life insurance rates?
At some carriers, documented regular exercise can earn credits that improve the rating.
Can credits offset a table rating?
Yes. Some carriers use lifestyle credits to reduce or remove table ratings on permanent products.
What lifestyle factors earn life insurance credits?
Examples include no nicotine use, regular exercise documented by a physician, and normal cancer screenings.
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.
Connect on LinkedIn →We’re Here to Help
Have a question about what you just read, or a case you’re working on? Tell us a bit about what you need, and a member of the SRS team will follow up with you personally — no obligation, no hassle.
