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Life insurance with Obesity

Life Insurance with Obesity

Finding Cover When Weight is a Factor

If you’re living with obesity or have a higher BMI, you may wonder whether life insurance is still available. The good news is that many Australians with higher weight ranges are still able to obtain cover. At Covermate Life, we work with multiple insurers to help you find the right policy, even when weight or related health issues are a concern.

Can I Get Life Insurance if I’m Obese?

Yes, it’s possible. Insurers look at your Body Mass Index (BMI), overall health, and any related conditions before making a decision. While you may face higher premiums or specific exclusions, many people living with obesity are approved for cover every year.

What Insurers Consider

When assessing your application, insurers typically ask about:

  • BMI – calculated from your height and weight.

  • Medical history – diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, or heart conditions.

  • Lifestyle factors – smoking, alcohol use, exercise, and diet.

  • Recent medical tests – GP reports, blood tests, or specialist reviews.

If your BMI is very high, you may face a loading (extra premium) or, in some cases, exclusions for weight-related health issues.

Why Work with a Specialist Broker?

Applying directly to one insurer can be stressful — especially if you’ve been declined before. At Covermate Life, we:

  • Work with multiple insurers to compare your options.

  • Know which insurers are more flexible with higher BMIs.

  • Help present your application clearly to avoid unnecessary declines.

  • Provide general advice only — so you stay in control of your choice.

Types of Life Insurance You May Qualify For

Even with obesity, you may still be eligible for:

  • Life Cover (Death Cover) – lump sum paid to your family if you pass away.

  • TPD Insurance – payout if you become totally and permanently disabled.

  • Income Protection – replaces part of your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury.

  • Trauma Insurance – lump sum payout for major health events (though some weight-related conditions may be excluded).

Tips for Applying with Obesity

  1. Be honest – disclose your weight and medical history upfront.

  2. Keep medical records handy – blood tests, GP check-ups, or specialist notes.

  3. Consider lifestyle changes – insurers may look favourably on recent improvements.

  4. Use a broker – access to multiple insurers increases your chances of approval.

  5. Don’t assume a decline – different insurers have different BMI cut-offs.

Why Choose Covermate Life?

  • Access to leading insurers across Australia.

  • Specialists in helping people with pre-existing health conditions.

  • Support and guidance throughout the process.

  • General advice only – you stay in control of your decision.

Get Started Today

Life insurance with obesity doesn’t have to be complicated. At Covermate Life, we’ll help you understand your options, compare policies, and apply with confidence.

Call us today or request a quote online to get started.

FAQs

1. Will I pay more for life insurance if I’m obese?
Most likely. Insurers may apply a premium loading based on BMI and any related health conditions.

2. Can my application be declined because of my weight?
It’s possible with very high BMIs, but many insurers are flexible. A broker can help you find the right provider.

3. Do I need a medical exam?
Often yes. Insurers may request blood tests, GP records, or recent check-ups.

4. If I lose weight later, can my premiums change?
Sometimes. Some insurers allow reassessment if you maintain a healthier weight for a period of time.

5. Does obesity automatically exclude me from all cover types?
No. Many people with higher BMIs still qualify for life, TPD, or income protection insurance.

General Advice Disclaimer: The information on this page is general only and does not take into account your personal circumstances. You should consider whether the product is appropriate for you and read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before making a decision.

This website is published by Covermate Life Pty Ltd. Covermate Life Pty Ltd 1311570 are authorised representatives of Wealth Today Pty Ltd (ABN 62 133 393 263), AFSL 340289. The information contained in this website and any of the resources available through it has been prepared for general information purposes only and is not (and cannot be construed or relied upon as) personal advice. No investment objectives, financial circumstances or needs of any individual have been taken into consideration in the preparation of the Content. Financial products entail risk of loss, may rise and fall, and are impacted by a range of market and economic factors, and you should always obtain professional advice to ensure trading or investing in such products is suitable for your circumstances. 

Under no circumstances will any of Covermate Life Pty Ltd, Wealth Today Pty Ltd, its officers, representatives, associates or agents be liable for any loss or damage, whether direct, incidental or consequential, caused by reliance on or use of the Content. This Content is restricted to Australian residents and is for the intended recipient only. From time to time, Covermate Life Pty Ltd representatives or associates may hold interests in or transact in companies or products mentioned herein, and may receive fees or other benefits, in connection with the making of any recommendation or facilitating a transaction in such companies or products. 

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