Can Smoking Pot Have an Effect on Your Life Insurance Rates?

While you may already know that cigarette smokers must pay a higher premium rate for life insurance – in some cases, two to three times more than the standard rate – what about those who smoke marijuana?

The answer is, it can depend.

In fact, there are several different parameters that can come into play when determining the rate that a marijuana smoker may pay for life insurance coverage. These include the amount and frequency of the marijuana use, and whether it is used for medical or recreational purposes.

Determining Your Life Insurance Premium When You Smoke Marijuana

In most cases, life insurance carriers will require applicants to undergo a medical examination before making a determination on policy approval. One of the primary reasons for this is because insurance companies want to get an idea of how much risk they may be taking on if they accept an individual for coverage.

The medical exam usually entails answering some in-depth health-related questions, as well as submitting a blood and urine sample for testing purposes. These samples are typically reviewed for various health conditions that the applicant may have.

So, how can an insurance company find out whether or not you smoke marijuana?

Typically, THC will show up will show up on a blood test between three and fourteen days after smoking pot, depending on how frequently the applicant uses it. Likewise, marijuana can also be detected in an individual’s urine for up to thirty days, depending on how frequently it is used.

How Much Will You Pay for Life Insurance Coverage as a Pot Smoker?

Although not all insurance carriers are exactly the same in their underwriting processes, in many cases, if someone is deemed as a marijuana smoker, they may be required to pay the same premium rate as a cigarette smoker.

However, depending on the individual carrier – as well as how frequently marijuana is used – it may be possible to qualify for a better rate. For instance, if an individual only smokes marijuana once per month or less, some insurers may even offer a Preferred Plus rating (provided that the applicant is otherwise in excellent health). With that in mind, it definitely pays to shop around.

How to Find Affordable Life Insurance Coverage for Marijuana Smokers

One of the biggest keys to ensuring that you have the right life insurance coverage for your specific needs and situation is having a choice – and the best way to accomplish this is to work with an independent insurance professional.

Unlike insurance advisors who work for one single company – and who are forced to choose from just a limited number of coverage options – an independent agent or broker has access to multiple companies and policies and will do the work to find the best options for you.

If you’re a marijuana smoker and you’d like to compare life insurance coverage and quote options, contact us today by clicking the "Get A Quote" button on the right side of the page.

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