What you pay for no‑health‑question life insurance
No‑health‑question (NHQ) life insurance eliminates the medical exam and detailed health questionnaire, but the trade‑off is a higher premium. For a healthy 35‑year‑old male, a $250,000 term policy might cost $45‑$60 per month, whereas a traditional medically underwritten policy could be $30‑$40. Premiums rise sharply with age, smoking status, and desired coverage amount, often adding 20‑50% compared with fully underwritten rates.
More from this site
Keep reading the latest coverage
Key factors that drive the cost
Even without a health questionnaire, insurers use proxy data to assess risk. The main variables include:
- Age – older applicants face higher mortality tables.
- Gender – women generally receive lower rates.
- Smoking status – self‑reported smokers pay substantially more.
- Coverage amount and term length – larger or longer‑term policies increase exposure.
- Occupation and lifestyle – high‑risk jobs or extreme hobbies can add fees.
How premiums compare across product types
NHQ policies are offered mainly as simplified issue or guaranteed issue products. Simplified issue typically requires a short health questionnaire and yields rates 20‑30% higher than fully underwritten term. Guaranteed issue, which asks no questions at all, is the most expensive, often 40‑70% above standard rates, and may include graded death benefits for the first two years.
Typical price ranges by age group
| Age | Simplified Issue (USD/month) | Guaranteed Issue (USD/month) |
|---|---|---|
| 30‑39 | $35‑$55 | $55‑$80 |
| 40‑49 | $50‑$80 | $80‑$120 |
| 50‑59 | $80‑$130 | $130‑$190 |
These figures assume a $250,000 term policy for a non‑smoker with no high‑risk occupation. Adjustments are made for higher coverage amounts or smokers.
When NHQ policies make sense
They are useful for:
- People who need coverage quickly and cannot schedule a medical exam.
- Those with pre‑existing conditions that would raise rates or cause denial in traditional underwriting.
- Applicants who prefer a fully digital purchase on mobile devices, aligning with Yuki Tanaka's focus on seamless, handheld experiences.
For healthy individuals seeking the lowest possible cost, a standard medically underwritten term policy remains the cheapest option.
Tips for minimizing cost
Even without a health questionnaire, you can influence pricing:
- Choose the smallest coverage amount that meets your needs.
- Opt for a shorter term, such as 10‑year instead of 20‑year.
- Maintain a non‑smoking status and avoid high‑risk activities.
- Shop multiple insurers; rates vary widely for the same risk profile.