Guaranteed life insurance waiting times prevent end-of–life applicants from cashing in too soon on the death benefits. This would cause severe financial hardship for insurance companies.
For those with pre-existing diseases, guaranteed issue insurance may not be the best option. Though policies differ from one insurer to the next, some policies may include coverage for those with chronic illness. If you have a condition that is pre-existing, find out what options you have.
Although exam anxiety is a concern, life insurance can be a great option. Don't delay in deciding to get coverage. Guaranteed-issue life insurance might be an option if your anxiety is causing you to procrastinate.
Let's suppose your policy has a Graded Benefit. In such a case, your beneficiaries get a refund of 110% on the premiums that you have paid. If you are killed by suicide or in an accident, your heirs get a full refund. Your beneficiaries would receive $100 to $110 if you paid $100 for premiums. The cause of death will vary.
There are pros and cons to guaranteed issue life insurance.
Life insurance policies will be guaranteed to be issued, as the name implies. No matter how healthy you are, your application cannot be turned away or refused. Guaranteed life insurance typically offers lower death benefits and higher premiums.
Most life insurance companies will refund your premiums to your beneficiaries, if you are unable to pay the death benefit due to illness or injury within the first few years. Investopedia says that this prevents people with serious illnesses from receiving large payments immediately.
Many guaranteed issue insurance companies will require you to be at least 40 to 50 in order to apply.
You will pay higher premiums. However, your beneficiaries would not be eligible for a complete death benefit until your policy is in force for a specified time. This can vary depending on the insurance company. This is what's known in insurance as "gradual benefits".
Coverage amounts for guaranteed issue life insurance are generally lower than traditional life insurance policies, ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the insurer. This is often intended to cover final expenses such as funeral costs.
Guaranteed issue life insurance can be a good option for individuals who have difficulty qualifying for traditional life insurance due to age or health issues. However, because of the higher premiums and limited coverage, it is important to consider whether it meets your financial goals and needs.
While you can't be denied coverage for health reasons, most policies include a waiting period, often 2-3 years, before the full death benefit is paid out. If you die during this period, the beneficiaries may only receive a refund of premiums paid, plus interest.