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Life Insurance and Crohn’s Disease: What You Need to Know

  • Writer: Philippe Deray
    Philippe Deray
  • Nov 4
  • 4 min read

Updated: Nov 5

If you or someone you love is living with Crohn’s disease, obtaining life insurance can feel challenging — but it’s absolutely possible. While Crohn’s is considered a pre-existing condition, many people with it are able to qualify for coverage at a fair rate. The key is understanding how insurers evaluate risk and how working with a knowledgeable agent can make a major difference.


Life insurance is possible with Crohn’s.

How Crohn’s Disease Affects Life Insurance Underwriting


Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can range from mild and well-controlled to severe and chronic. Because its symptoms and progression vary so widely, life insurance companies assess each case individually.


When applying for life insurance with Crohn’s disease, underwriters typically review several key factors:

  • Date of Diagnosis: How long ago the condition was diagnosed. A recent diagnosis may mean less medical history to evaluate, which can lead to higher premiums or even a temporary postponement.

  • Severity and Frequency of Symptoms: Insurers will consider whether the disease is mild, moderate, or severe, and how often flare-ups occur.

  • Hospitalizations and Surgeries: A history of hospital stays, surgeries, or complications such as fistulas or bowel obstructions can signal higher risk.

  • Treatment and Medications: Use of immunosuppressants, steroids, or biologic therapies helps insurers understand the level of disease control.

  • Remission Periods: The longer the disease has been stable with no flares or complications, the more favorable the potential rating.

  • Extent of Disease: How much of the gastrointestinal tract is affected and whether complications like anemia or malabsorption are present.

  • Overall Health: Age, tobacco use, body mass index, and other medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension also play a role in underwriting decisions.


Typical Life Insurance Ratings for Crohn’s Disease


Because Crohn’s adds an element of uncertainty, many insurers start these cases with what’s called a table rating — a modest increase in premium due to added health risk.


While every company has its own guidelines, typical outcomes look like this:

  • Mild, well-controlled Crohn’s: Standard rates or a Table 2/B rating

  • Moderate disease with occasional flares: Table 2–4

  • Severe or complicated cases: Table 4–8, postponement, or possible decline


That said, many applicants with stable, well-managed Crohn’s successfully obtain coverage at affordable rates, especially when working with an agent who knows which carriers are most favorable toward inflammatory bowel disease.


Why Working with an Experienced Agent Matters


When it comes to Crohn’s disease, the value of having a knowledgeable agent cannot be overstated. Every insurance carrier has its own underwriting philosophy and appetite for different health risks.


Here’s how an experienced agent can help:

  • Identify the Right Carriers: Some companies specialize in underwriting chronic health conditions and may offer far better rates than others.

  • Pre-Screening: A good agent can confidentially pre-screen your case with multiple carriers before you apply, saving you time and unnecessary denials.

  • Present Your Case Favorably: Agents can help gather and organize your medical history, doctor’s notes, and evidence of remission to present you in the best possible light.

  • Compare Policy Options: From term life to whole life or universal life, an agent can guide you toward the policy type that fits both your health and financial goals.

  • Advocate on Your Behalf: If an insurer issues an unexpected rating, your agent can appeal or re-shop your case to another carrier for a better outcome.


Choosing the Right Type of Policy


Depending on your health and goals, different life insurance types may fit better:

  • Term Life Insurance: Offers affordable protection for a set period (10, 20, or 30 years). Ideal for covering mortgages, family income, or other temporary financial needs.

  • Whole or Universal Life Insurance: Provides lifetime coverage with cash value accumulation. This may be best for estate planning, final expenses, or leaving a financial legacy.

  • Simplified or Guaranteed Issue Policies: For those who may not qualify for traditional underwriting, these plans require minimal health questions or none at all. They typically have smaller coverage amounts but can still offer meaningful protection.


Tips for Applicants with Crohn’s Disease


To improve your chances of securing favorable rates:

  1. Maintain Stable Health: Apply after at least 6–12 months without flare-ups or hospitalizations.

  2. Provide Updated Medical Records: Include recent colonoscopy results, lab work, and physician notes showing disease control.

  3. Avoid Tobacco: Smoking or vaping can significantly increase rates.

  4. Stay Fit and Manage Stress: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps demonstrate overall risk control.

  5. Be Honest on Your Application: Full disclosure is crucial. Misstatements can void coverage later.

  6. Work with a Specialist: An agent familiar with high-risk cases knows which insurers are more lenient and how to properly present your health story.


The Bottom Line


Having Crohn’s disease shouldn’t stop you from protecting your loved ones with life insurance. While the underwriting process can be more detailed, many people living with Crohn’s successfully secure quality coverage at reasonable rates.


The key is preparation, transparency, and expert guidance. A skilled independent agent can help you navigate the process, compare carriers, and find the right balance between cost, coverage, and long-term peace of mind.


Life Insurance Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or insurance advice. Life insurance needs and products vary by individual, state, and insurer. Policies may involve fees, costs, and limitations. Some policies include a cash value component that can grow over time, and certain strategies may allow for accumulation beyond basic protection. Results are not guaranteed and may vary by policy, insurer, and state. Consult a licensed insurance professional before making any life insurance decisions.





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