What Is a Pre-Existing Condition?

In the world of life insurance, a pre-existing condition refers to any health issue you were diagnosed with or received treatment for before applying for a policy. This can include:

• Chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or asthma
• Past illnesses such as cancer or heart disease
• Ongoing medication or therapy for mental health conditions
• Any surgeries or hospitalizations in the past few years

Insurance providers use this information during underwriting—the process where they assess your risk level—to determine whether to approve your application and what premium to charge.

How VUL Insurance Works with Pre-Existing Conditions

VUL insurance—or Variable Universal Life insurance—offers both life coverage and investment components. It’s often seen as a lifelong policy with flexible premiums and the potential for cash value growth. But since it includes a death benefit, the insurer still needs to assess your health profile.

Here’s what typically happens:

1. Medical Questions: The application form will ask about your health history. Some policies will require a medical exam, while others may offer no-exam VUL policies at higher premiums.
2. Disclosure Review: Underwriters review any disclosed pre-existing conditions and determine their severity, current treatment status, and long-term risk.
3. Risk Classification: You’ll be assigned a rating (Preferred, Standard, Substandard, etc.) that affects your premium.
4. Decision: The insurer may approve your policy, offer a modified policy with higher premiums, or in rare cases, deny the application.

Real Talk: Why Full Disclosure Matters

Let’s be honest—when applying for something as important as life insurance, it’s tempting to leave out a few details. But failing to disclose a pre-existing condition is risky business. If you pass away and your insurer discovers that you withheld medical information, your beneficiaries might be denied the death benefit altogether.

Think of it this way: disclosing your pre-existing conditions upfront gives the insurer a chance to work with you, not against you. Many providers offer tailored VUL policies even for applicants with medical histories—as long as the risk is understood and managed.

Can You Still Get Good Coverage?

Yes—absolutely. While it’s true that certain conditions might lead to higher premiums or stricter terms, many people with pre-existing conditions still qualify for solid, long-term VUL coverage.

Here are a few strategies to consider:

1. Apply Sooner Rather Than Later

The older you get, the more likely new conditions will arise. If you already have a manageable condition, applying sooner gives you the chance to lock in coverage before anything else develops.

2. Work with a Licensed Insurance Agent

Agents have access to multiple providers and know which companies are more lenient with specific conditions. For example, one insurer might approve diabetics who are on insulin, while another might not.

3. Consider a Graded or Modified VUL

Some providers offer graded or modified VUL policies. These may have a waiting period (e.g., the full death benefit is only paid after 2 years) or other limitations, but they provide a pathway to coverage even when full approval isn’t available immediately.

4. Improve Your Health (if possible)

If your condition is manageable—such as controlled blood pressure or weight loss—taking positive steps can improve your rating. Some insurers allow re-evaluation after a certain period of time.

What Happens After You’re Approved?

Once your VUL insurance policy is approved, your pre-existing condition won’t automatically cause issues. As long as the policy is active and premiums are paid, the death benefit remains in force—even if your health worsens later.

That’s one of the strongest arguments for applying early, even with pre-existing conditions: lock in your insurability while you can.

Personal Story: From Rejection to Protection

Take the case of Miguel, a 42-year-old father of three who had survived a minor stroke five years prior. He was initially declined by two insurers offering traditional term policies. But when he consulted with an independent agent, he was matched with a VUL provider that specialized in applicants with cardiovascular history. He paid slightly more than a standard policyholder, but he gained lifelong coverage and a growing investment fund—proving that a “no” from one company isn’t the end of the road.

VUL and Pre-Existing Conditions Can Coexist

So, is VUL insurance off-limits if you have pre-existing conditions? Not at all. While it may require more research, honest conversations, and potentially higher premiums, you can still find a policy that fits your needs and secures your family’s future.

Here’s the bottom line: your health history doesn’t define your financial future—it just helps shape it.

If you’re ready to explore VUL insurance but worried about pre-existing conditions, don’t let fear stop you. Instead, let it fuel your determination to find coverage that works for you. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved ones are protected? That’s worth every effort.

Start the conversation today. Your future self—and your family—will thank you for it.