Part of our guide: Impaired Risk Life Insurance Underwriting by Condition →
Some carriers stand out for how they treat common lifestyle factors and mild conditions. Here’s a snapshot of one A+ carrier’s underwriting strengths that can help shape better offers.
Key takeaways
- Occasional cigar users (two a month or less) with a negative urine test can qualify for Preferred Plus through Standard Plus non-tobacco.
- Family history rules are lenient: not applied at 60+, deaths only, and not for opposite-sex gender-specific cancers.
- Airline pilots can qualify for all Preferred classes, and certified divers under 100 feet may qualify for Preferred.
Two cigars a month and a negative nicotine test? That can still be Preferred Plus non-tobacco at this carrier.
Tobacco and marijuana
- Occasional cigar use (two or fewer per month) with a negative urinalysis: Preferred Plus, Preferred, or Standard Plus non-tobacco
- Occasional marijuana use: Preferred or Standard Plus non-tobacco possible. See marijuana underwriting.
Family history
- Not applied for applicants 60 and older (for Preferred Plus, Preferred, and Standard Plus)
- Considers deaths only, not diagnoses
- Doesn’t apply opposite-sex gender-specific cancers
- Family deaths from diabetes can still qualify for Preferred Plus through Standard Plus
See family history rules for older applicants.
Common conditions
- Mild asthma: may be eligible for Preferred
- Mild sleep apnea with verified CPAP use: may be eligible for Preferred
- Treatment for cholesterol or hypertension doesn’t exclude Preferred classes
- Cholesterol up to 300 with favorable ratios: 5.0 or less for Preferred Plus, 6.0 for Preferred, 7.0 for Standard Plus
Aviation and avocations
- Commercial airline pilots: all Preferred classes
- Certain private pilots with IFR or ATP ratings, 50–250 hours a year and 1,000+ total hours: Preferred and Standard Plus
- Certified scuba divers diving under 100 feet: Preferred classes may be available
Guidelines change; confirm current rules before quoting.
Frequently asked questions
Can pilots get Preferred life insurance rates?
At some carriers, commercial airline pilots qualify for all Preferred classes, and experienced private pilots may qualify for Preferred.
Does scuba diving affect life insurance?
It can, but some carriers offer Preferred to certified divers who stay under certain depths.
Do occasional cigars count as tobacco use for life insurance?
At some carriers, occasional use with a negative nicotine test can qualify for non-tobacco rates.
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.
