Living with asthma is common in Australia, affecting both children and adults. Whether your asthma is mild, exercise-induced, or more severe, you may wonder how it affects your chances of getting life insurance. The good news is that asthma doesn’t automatically prevent you from being approved – but it can influence the policy terms, medical requirements, and premiums.

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At Covermate Life, we’re a specialist life insurance broker helping Australians with health conditions – including asthma – find the right policy. We provide general advice only and compare policies from leading insurers, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

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Can You Get Life Insurance with Asthma?

Yes, most people with asthma can get life insurance. Insurers will look at:

• Type of asthma – mild, moderate, or severe

• Frequency of symptoms – daily, seasonal, or exercise-induced

• Medication use – inhalers, preventers, or steroids

• Hospitalisations or emergency treatments in the past 5 years

• Smoking history – as smoking with asthma is considered higher risk

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For mild, well-controlled asthma, many insurers may approve standard rates with little or no loadings. For moderate or severe asthma, premiums may be higher, and additional health questions or medical reports may be required.

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What Types of Cover Are Available?

When applying for life insurance with asthma, you can typically access the same products as anyone else, including:

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• Life Cover – a lump sum paid to your loved ones if you pass away.

• TPD (Total & Permanent Disability) Cover – provides financial support if you’re unable to ever work again due to illness or injury.

• Trauma Cover – pays a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a covered medical condition (e.g., heart attack, cancer).

• Income Protection – replaces part of your income if you’re unable to work temporarily due to illness or injury.

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How Insurers Assess Asthma Applications

Every insurer has different underwriting guidelines, but they usually ask about:

• Age when asthma was diagnosed

• Frequency of attacks and triggers

• Whether you’ve been hospitalised for asthma

• Current medications and dosage

• Smoking habits

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This information helps insurers understand the level of risk and set your policy terms.

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Tips for Getting Life Insurance with Asthma

• Be honest and upfront – full disclosure avoids problems with claims later.

• Work with a broker – Covermate Life compares multiple insurers to find those most supportive of people with asthma.

• Have medical history ready – include details of medications, GP visits, and hospital stays.

• Consider lifestyle improvements – quitting smoking and regular check-ups may help reduce loadings.

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Why Choose Covermate Life?

• We specialise in helping Australians with medical conditions.

• Access to multiple insurers, not just one company.

• General advice only – empowering you to make the best choice.

• Support through the application and medical process.

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FAQs – Life Insurance with Asthma

Will I pay more for life insurance if I have asthma?
It depends on the severity. Mild, well-controlled asthma often has little impact, but severe cases may mean higher premiums.

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Do I need to take a medical test?
Not always. Some insurers may request a doctor’s report or lung function test if your asthma is more serious.

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Can I still get cover if I smoke and have asthma?
Yes, but expect higher premiums, as smoking significantly increases risk.

 

What if my asthma improves over time?
You may be able to review your policy in future and request lower premiums if your condition is well managed.

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Get Started Today

At Covermate Life, we help Australians with asthma find affordable, suitable life insurance. We provide general advice, explain your options clearly, and guide you through the process.