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HomeLife Insurance ResourcesLife Insurance With and After Cancer in Canada

Life insurance coverage can be challenging for individuals who have had cancer, but it is not impossible to obtain. Many insurance companies offer life insurance policies for cancer survivors, but the premiums may be higher due to the increased risk associated with a history of cancer.

When applying for life insurance coverage after cancer, the insurance company will typically ask a range of questions about the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, the treatment that was received, and the length of time since treatment was completed. Insurance companies will also want to know about any ongoing health issues and any lifestyle factors that may increase the risk of future health problems.

The specific premium cost for life insurance coverage for cancer survivors will depend on several factors, including the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, the treatment that was received, and the individual’s overall health and lifestyle. In general, the longer the individual has been cancer-free, the better their chances of obtaining life insurance coverage at a reasonable premium cost.

It is important to be honest and accurate when answering questions on a life insurance application, including disclosing any history of cancer. Lying or withholding information can result in the policy being cancelled or denied. Working with an experienced insurance broker or agent can help cancer survivors find the best life insurance policy and rates for their specific situation.

Can You Get Life Insurance if You Have Cancer?

Yes, it is possible to get life insurance if you have had cancer in Canada, although the process of obtaining coverage can be more challenging and may result in higher premiums.

When you apply for life insurance, the insurer will typically ask about your cancer diagnosis and treatment, including the type of cancer, the stage, the treatment that was received, and the length of time since the completion of treatment. The insurer may also ask about your overall health and lifestyle factors that could increase your risk of future health problems.

The specific cost of life insurance for cancer survivors in Canada will depend on several factors, including the type of cancer, the stage, the treatment that was received, and the individual’s overall health and lifestyle. In general, the longer the individual has been cancer-free, the better their chances of obtaining life insurance coverage at a reasonable premium cost.

It is important to be honest and accurate when answering questions on a life insurance application, including disclosing any history of cancer. Failing to disclose relevant information can result in the policy being cancelled or denied. Working with an experienced insurance broker or agent who specializes in high-risk life insurance can help cancer survivors find the best life insurance policy and rates for their specific situation.

 Life Insurance And Cancer FAQs

broker using life insurance calculator

 

Here are some frequently asked questions about life insurance and cancer in Canada:

  1. Can I get life insurance if I am currently undergoing cancer treatment? It may be more difficult to obtain life insurance if you are currently undergoing cancer treatment, but it is not impossible. The insurer will want to know more about your diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis before deciding whether to offer you coverage.
  2. How long do I need to be cancer-free before I can get life insurance? The length of time you need to be cancer-free before you can get life insurance will depend on several factors, including the type of cancer, the stage, and the treatment that was received. In general, the longer you have been cancer-free, the better your chances of obtaining life insurance coverage at a reasonable premium cost.
  3. Will I need to undergo a medical exam to get life insurance if I have had cancer? The need for a medical exam will depend on the insurer and the specifics of the policy. Some insurers may require a medical exam, while others may not. However, you will typically need to answer a series of questions about your health, including your history of cancer.
  4. How will my premiums be affected if I have had cancer? If you have had cancer, your premiums will likely be higher than those of someone who has not had cancer, due to the increased risk associated with a history of cancer. The specific cost of your premiums will depend on the type of cancer, the stage, the treatment that was received, and the length of time since the completion of treatment.
  5. Can I get life insurance if I have a family history of cancer? Yes, you can still get life insurance if you have a family history of cancer. However, your premiums may be higher due to the increased risk associated with a family history of cancer.
  6. What happens if I am diagnosed with cancer after I have already purchased a life insurance policy? If you are diagnosed with cancer after you have already purchased a life insurance policy, the policy will still be in effect. However, the specifics of the policy will depend on the type of policy and the terms and conditions outlined in the contract.
  7. Can I get life insurance if I have a pre-existing condition related to cancer, such as a BRCA gene mutation? Yes, you can still get life insurance if you have a pre-existing condition related to cancer, such as a BRCA gene mutation. However, your premiums may be higher due to the increased risk associated with the condition.
  8. Can I get life insurance if I have a history of skin cancer? The availability and cost of life insurance coverage for individuals with a history of skin cancer will depend on several factors, including the type of skin cancer, the stage, the treatment that was received, and the length of time since the completion of treatment. In some cases, coverage may be available at a higher premium cost.
  9. What types of life insurance policies are available for cancer survivors? Cancer survivors can typically choose from several types of life insurance policies, including term life insurance, permanent life insurance, and guaranteed issue life insurance. The specific policy options and costs will depend on the insurer and the individual’s specific situation.
  10. What if I am denied coverage for life insurance due to my history of cancer? If you are denied coverage for life insurance due to your history of cancer, you may have other options. You can try applying for coverage with a different insurer or working with a specialized insurance broker who can help you find coverage that meets your needs. Alternatively, you may be able to explore other options, such as group life insurance through an employer or a guaranteed issue life insurance policy.
  11. What is guaranteed issue life insurance and is it an option for cancer survivors? Guaranteed-issue life insurance is a type of policy that does not require a medical exam or health questions to be answered. It is generally available to individuals who may not qualify for other types of life insurance due to their health or other factors. While guaranteed issue life insurance may be an option for cancer survivors, the coverage amounts and premiums may be limited.
  12. What should I look for in a life insurance policy as a cancer survivor? As a cancer survivor, it is important to look for a policy that offers adequate coverage at a reasonable premium cost. You may also want to look for policies that offer guaranteed renewability and that do not require additional medical exams or underwriting to renew the policy.
  13. What can I do to improve my chances of getting life insurance as a cancer survivor? To improve your chances of getting life insurance as a cancer survivor, you should be prepared to provide detailed information about your cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. You should also be honest and accurate in your answers to any questions on the application. Working with a specialized insurance broker who has experience working with high-risk applicants can also help improve your chances of getting coverage.
  14. Can I get life insurance if I have a terminal illness, such as late-stage cancer? In most cases, it may be difficult or impossible to obtain life insurance coverage if you have a terminal illness, such as late-stage cancer. However, there may be other options available, such as end-of-life planning services and palliative care support. It is important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider and a specialized insurance broker.
  15. Can I still get life insurance if I am currently in remission from cancer? Yes, you can still get life insurance if you are currently in remission from cancer. The specific availability and cost of coverage will depend on several factors, including the type of cancer, the stage, the treatment that was received, and the length of time since the completion of treatment.
  16. Can I get life insurance if I am a cancer survivor who is currently taking medication to manage the side effects of cancer treatment? The availability and cost of life insurance coverage for individuals who are taking medication to manage the side effects of cancer treatment will depend on several factors, including the type of medication, the dosage, and the individual’s overall health and medical history. In some cases, coverage may be available at a higher premium cost.
  17. Can I get life insurance if I am a cancer survivor who is currently participating in a clinical trial? The availability and cost of life insurance coverage for individuals who are currently participating in a clinical trial will depend on several factors, including the type of trial, the treatment that is being received, and the individual’s overall health and medical history. In some cases, coverage may be available at a higher premium cost.
  18. What should I do if I am a cancer survivor and am having difficulty obtaining life insurance coverage? If you are a cancer survivor and are having difficulty obtaining life insurance coverage, you may want to work with a specialized insurance broker who has experience working with high-risk applicants. The broker can help you navigate the application process, provide guidance on the types of policies that may be available, and help you find coverage that meets your needs.
  19. Should I consider a group life insurance policy if I am a cancer survivor? Group life insurance policies may be an option for cancer survivors, particularly if the policy is offered through an employer or other organization. However, the coverage amounts and premiums may be limited, and you may not be able to customize the policy to meet your specific needs. It is important to compare the benefits and costs of group policies with individual policies to determine which option is best for you.
  20. Can I get life insurance if I have a family history of cancer? Yes, you can still get life insurance if you have a family history of cancer. However, your premiums may be higher due to the increased risk associated with a family history of cancer.

About the Author: Valerie D. Hahn

Valerie is an insurance editor, journalist, and business professional at RateLab. She has more than 15 years of experience in personal financial products. She strives to educate readers and ensure that they are properly protected.

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