What insurers may consider
None of these items decides an application on its own. Underwriters look at the picture as a whole, and the same file may be viewed differently depending on the insurer.
- Type of diabetes and approximate age at diagnosis
- How long the condition has been present
- Recent A1C readings and general stability of control
- Medications, insulin use and any recent changes
- Frequency of physician follow-up and monitoring
- Related conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol or kidney involvement
- Height, weight, nicotine use and overall lifestyle factors
Why offers differ between insurers
Canadian insurers set their own underwriting philosophies based on their claims experience and reinsurance arrangements. One carrier may be comparatively comfortable with long-standing, well-managed Type 2 diabetes while another places more weight on duration or insulin use.
This is the practical reason to compare several insurers rather than accepting the first response. An independent broker can position an application where the history tends to be viewed more favourably, but no broker can promise an outcome.
Underwriting pathways that may apply
Choosing a pathway prematurely can cost money. Many people with well-managed diabetes qualify for fully underwritten coverage that is less expensive than a no-medical alternative.
| Pathway | Typical evidence | Where it often fits |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional / fully underwritten | Full questionnaire, possible exam, bloodwork or physician records | Larger amounts, when a full picture may support better pricing |
| Simplified issue | Short health questionnaire, usually no exam | When faster placement matters or full underwriting is less practical |
| Guaranteed issue | No health questions, often a waiting period | Smaller final-expense amounts when other paths are unavailable |
What you may be asked about
- Date of diagnosis and treatment history
- Current medications and dosages
- Recent lab results, including A1C where available
- Hospitalizations, complications or emergency visits
- Other diagnosed conditions and family medical history
- Your physician's name and the date of your last visit
Screening is not an underwriting decision
A preliminary conversation with a broker is a planning step. It helps identify which insurers may be worth approaching and what evidence may be requested. It is not an approval, a health class, a guaranteed premium or a coverage confirmation.
Final decisions, including pricing and any rating, are made by the insurer after reviewing a complete application. Nothing on this page is medical advice, and it is not a statement of any insurer's internal underwriting rules.
Realistic next steps
- Gather your diagnosis date, medications and most recent lab results
- Decide the coverage amount and time horizon you actually need
- Review which underwriting pathway suits your situation
- Compare preliminary illustrations across multiple Canadian insurers
- Submit a complete, accurate application — omissions can affect a future claim
Common questions
Can I get life insurance if I have diabetes?
Many people living with diabetes in Ontario do obtain coverage. Outcomes depend on the type of diabetes, how long it has been present, how it is managed and whether other conditions are present. Every application is subject to underwriting and the insurer makes the final decision.
Does A1C matter?
Insurers commonly ask about recent A1C readings as one indicator of control alongside medications, monitoring and physician follow-up. There is no single number that determines an outcome, and different insurers weigh the same information differently.
Will I need a medical exam?
It depends on the insurer, the coverage amount, your age and the details of your history. A paramedical exam, bloodwork or an attending physician statement may be requested. Some applicants choose simplified issue plans that skip the exam, usually at a higher cost per dollar of coverage.
Is Type 1 treated differently from Type 2?
Often yes. Insurers typically look at age at diagnosis, duration, treatment and any complications. Some carriers are more experienced with Type 1 applications than others, which is one reason the same history can produce different offers.
Is gestational diabetes considered the same way?
Usually not. A resolved episode of gestational diabetes is generally assessed differently from ongoing diabetes, though the insurer may still ask follow-up questions. Individual circumstances vary.
Keep reading
Written and reviewed by Mathew Cordeiro, a licensed life and health insurance broker serving Ontario through Bluebird Assurance. This page is general information only, not financial or insurance advice. Coverage, features, eligibility and pricing vary by insurer and are subject to underwriting and policy terms.