Life Insurance for Smokers

Protecting Your Loved Ones, Even if You Smoke

Being a smoker doesn’t mean you can’t get life insurance. In fact, many Australians who smoke are able to secure cover — though policies often come with higher premiums. At Covermate Life, we work with multiple insurers to help you find the right option, even if you currently smoke.

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Can Smokers Get Life Insurance?

Yes. Almost all major insurers in Australia offer life insurance for smokers. However, you will usually pay higher premiums compared to non-smokers, as smoking is linked to higher health risks.

How much more? Premiums for smokers can be up to double those for non-smokers, depending on age, health, and lifestyle.

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Who Is Considered a Smoker?

Insurers typically classify you as a smoker if you have:

• Smoked cigarettes, cigars, or pipes in the last 12 months.

• Used nicotine replacement therapy or vaping with nicotine.

• Chewed tobacco or used other nicotine-based products.

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Even occasional smoking — such as “social smoking” — counts as being a smoker.

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What If I Quit Smoking?

If you quit smoking and remain nicotine-free for 12 months or more, many insurers will reclassify you as a non-smoker. This can significantly reduce your premiums.

Tip: Keep medical records or declarations ready if you want your policy reassessed later.

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Types of Life Insurance Available for Smokers

Smokers can still apply for the same types of cover as non-smokers, including:

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

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

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

• Trauma Insurance – lump sum if you are diagnosed with certain serious health conditions.

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Tips for Applying as a Smoker

1. Be upfront – failing to disclose smoking can void a claim.

2. Understand premium loadings – expect higher premiums but shop around.

3. Compare insurers – some are more competitive for smokers than others.

4. Plan ahead – if you’re considering quitting, apply with this in mind.

5. Use a broker – we know which insurers are more flexible with smoker policies.

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Why Choose Covermate Life?

• Access to multiple insurers across Australia.

• Guidance for both current and former smokers.

• Support through the entire application process.

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

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Get Started Today

Life insurance for smokers is available — and we’re here to help you find it. At Covermate Life, we’ll compare policies, explain your options, and support you every step of the way.

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

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FAQs

1. Will I pay more for life insurance if I smoke?
Yes. Premiums for smokers are usually higher — sometimes double those of non-smokers.

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2. What counts as smoking for insurance purposes?
Any use of nicotine, including cigarettes, cigars, vaping with nicotine, or chewing tobacco.

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3. Can I get cheaper life insurance if I quit?
Yes. If you’ve been nicotine-free for 12 months, many insurers will reclassify you as a non-smoker.

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4. Do insurers test for smoking?
Some insurers may request a medical test or cotinine (nicotine) test to confirm non-smoking status.

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5. Does vaping count as smoking?
If it contains nicotine, yes. Most insurers treat vaping the same as smoking.

 

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.