Final Expense Insurance for Smokers — Rates, Options & How to Save

If you smoke (or use any tobacco products), you can absolutely get final expense insurance. Every carrier offers tobacco rates. The question isn’t whether you can get covered — it’s how to get the best possible rate as a smoker.

I’m Michael Cubell with Triangle Life & Health, and I work with smokers regularly. Here’s what you need to know about rates, carrier differences, and how to save.

Smoker vs. Non-Smoker Rates — What’s the Difference?

Let’s look at the real numbers. Here’s a comparison for a $15,000 final expense policy:

Age	Non-Smoker	Smoker	Difference
55	$38/mo	$48/mo	+$10/mo
60	$48/mo	$62/mo	+$14/mo
65	$62/mo	$82/mo	+$20/mo
70	$80/mo	$108/mo	+$28/mo
75	$105/mo	$145/mo	+$40/mo

Yes, smokers pay more — but the difference is often less dramatic than people expect. And the coverage is identical: same permanent policy, same death benefit, same guarantees.

What Counts as “Tobacco Use”?

Carriers define tobacco use differently, but generally these all count:

• Cigarettes
• Cigars
• Chewing tobacco / dip
• Vaping / e-cigarettes
• Nicotine patches or gum (in most cases)
• Pipe tobacco

Most carriers ask if you’ve used tobacco in the last 12 months. If you quit more than 12 months ago, you may qualify for non-tobacco rates — which is a big savings. Some carriers use a 24-month lookback period.

How to Get the Best Rate as a Smoker

1. Compare multiple carriers — tobacco rate differences between carriers can be significant. Some carriers are much more competitive for smokers than others.
2. If you’ve quit, mention it — if you quit 12+ months ago, you may qualify for non-tobacco rates
3. Apply now, don’t wait — rates go up every year. A 60-year-old smoker pays less than a 65-year-old smoker for the same coverage
4. Consider slightly less coverage — if the premium feels high, a $10,000 policy might be a better fit than $20,000
5. Use an independent agent — I can find the carrier with the best tobacco rates for your age and health

The Bottom Line

Smoking doesn’t disqualify you from final expense insurance — not even close. You’ll pay a bit more, but you’ll still have affordable, permanent coverage that protects your family from funeral costs and other end-of-life expenses.

Call (919) 944-8443 or schedule a free consultation and I’ll show you exactly what you’d pay — no obligation.

📞 Call (919) 944-8443 — Free Quote