Smokers pay significantly higher life insurance premiums than non-smokers — typically two to four times more for the same coverage amount, age, and health profile. This dramatic cost difference reflects the well-documented mortality risk associated with tobacco use, including increased rates of cancer, heart disease, stroke, and numerous other conditions that shorten life expectancy by an average of 10 years.
Illustrative monthly premiums for smokers versus non-smokers for $500,000 20-year term: Age 30 male smoker: $65-$100 (non-smoker: $18-$28). Age 40 male smoker: $100-$175 (non-smoker: $30-$45). Age 50 male smoker: $250-$400 (non-smoker: $70-$110). Age 60 male smoker: $550-$900 (non-smoker: $200-$350). Female rates are typically 15%-25% lower at each age.
The tobacco classification applies broadly: cigarettes, cigars (frequency matters), pipes, chewing tobacco, nicotine patches and gum, and for many carriers, vaping and e-cigarettes. Occasional cigar use (fewer than 12 per year) may qualify for non-smoker rates with some carriers, but this varies. Marijuana use may or may not result in a tobacco classification depending on the carrier — some evaluate it separately.
The financial incentive to quit is substantial: a 40-year-old male smoker paying an illustrative $140/month who quits and is reclassified after 12 months might pay an illustrative $40/month — saving $1,200/year or $24,000 over the remaining term. Even if you currently smoke, obtaining coverage now is important — you can request reclassification after quitting. A licensed agent in our network can find the most competitive smoker rates and carriers with the best reclassification policies. All figures are illustrative; actual premiums vary by carrier and individual underwriting.