Reading time: ~8 minutes | Updated: June 2026

Affordable Term Life Insurance for Diabetics Over 50: What You Need to Know in 2026

Getting affordable term life insurance for diabetics over 50 is more achievable than most people think. According to the CDC, over 38 million Americans live with diabetes — and the majority can still qualify for competitive life insurance rates. is more achievable than most people expect. If you’re over 50 with diabetes and looking for life insurance, here’s the most important thing to know: coverage is available, and it’s often more affordable than you expect. The key is knowing how the system works and working with the right people to navigate it.

What Insurers Focus On for Diabetics Over 50

Age and diabetes together do raise flags for underwriters — but they don’t disqualify you. What matters most:

• A1C level — The most critical single number. Below 7.0 is excellent; 7.0–8.0 is manageable; above 8.5 is challenging
• Type of diabetes — Type 2 is viewed more favorably than Type 1; diet-controlled is better than insulin-dependent
• Duration of diagnosis — Longer duration increases risk; shorter and well-managed can offset this
• Complications — Neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, or cardiovascular disease significantly impact rates
• Other health factors — BMI, blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking history — all compounding factors

What Term Lengths Are Available After 50?

• Age 50–55: 10, 15, and 20-year terms widely available; some 30-year terms possible
• Age 55–60: 10 and 15-year terms most common; 20-year terms available at select carriers
• Age 60–65: 10-year terms readily available; 15-year terms at select carriers; focus shifts toward permanent coverage

Realistic Rate Expectations

Rates vary significantly by carrier — this is where working with an independent broker pays off enormously. As a general framework for a 55-year-old male with Type 2 diabetes on a 10-year $500,000 term:

• A1C under 7.0, no complications: Standard rates — approximately $150–$250/month
• A1C 7.0–8.0, minimal complications: Table 2–4 rates — approximately $250–$400/month
• A1C above 8.0 or complications present: Table 4–8 or decline from traditional carriers; simplified issue becomes the better path

For a deeper dive on all the factors affecting diabetic underwriting, see our full guide on getting approved for life insurance with diabetes.

Strategies to Lower Your Rate

1. Get your A1C as low as possible before applying — Even a drop from 7.8 to 7.2 can move you a table rating and save significant premium dollars
2. Document all your diabetes management — Regular endocrinologist visits, consistent medication, and logged labs signal good management
3. Avoid applying right after a complication or hospitalization — Wait until health is stable and labs look their best
4. Work with an independent broker who specializes in impaired risk — Different carriers rate diabetics very differently; an independent broker shops your case where it gets the best outcome
5. Consider a shorter term — A 10-year term is significantly cheaper than a 20-year term, and may be all you need if your goals are specific (mortgage payoff, kids in college)

When Traditional Term Isn’t Available

If your diabetes isn’t well-controlled or complications are significant, simplified issue and guaranteed issue products provide a path to coverage. Face amounts are typically lower, but these policies ensure you’re not left completely unprotected. Use our life insurance needs calculator to determine what level of coverage fits your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can diabetics over 50 get term life insurance?

Yes. Many diabetics over 50 qualify for term life insurance at competitive rates. Well-controlled Type 2 diabetes with a low A1C can often qualify for standard or table-rated coverage even after age 50.

What term lengths are available for diabetics over 50?

10 and 15-year terms are most widely available in your 50s. 20-year terms are possible in early 50s. An independent broker can help you choose the right term length for your specific goals and budget.

How much does A1C affect rates for diabetics over 50?

Significantly. A1C below 7.0 can qualify for standard rates. 7.0–8.0 means table ratings but still affordable. Above 8.5 limits traditional options. Even a small A1C improvement before applying can save hundreds per year in premiums.

What if I can’t qualify for traditional term life?

Simplified issue or guaranteed issue products provide coverage without full underwriting. Contact Tom to find the best available option for your specific health situation.

See also: life insurance with other health conditions or life insurance basics with diabetes.