How Much More Do Smokers Pay?
Smokers typically pay 50–100% more than non-smokers for the same life insurance cover. The exact increase depends on your age, how much you smoke, and the insurer.
| Age | Non-Smoker (£200k, 25yr) | Smoker (£200k, 25yr) | Extra Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | £6–8/mo | £10–14/mo | +60–75% |
| 30 | £7–10/mo | £13–19/mo | +70–90% |
| 35 | £9–14/mo | £18–28/mo | +80–100% |
| 40 | £14–22/mo | £28–44/mo | +90–100% |
| 45 | £22–35/mo | £45–70/mo | +100%+ |
What Counts as “Smoking” for Insurance?
Insurers define smoking broadly. You will be classified as a smoker if you have used any of the following within the past 12 months (some insurers: 24 months):
- Cigarettes (including rollups)
- Cigars or pipe tobacco
- E-cigarettes / vapes (even nicotine-free with some insurers)
- Nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges
- Shisha / hookah
- Chewing tobacco
How to Get Non-Smoker Rates
The single biggest way to reduce your life insurance costs is to quit smoking. After 12 months completely nicotine-free:
- Most insurers will classify you as a non-smoker
- You can apply for a new policy at non-smoker rates (or ask your existing insurer to re-rate your policy)
- Your premiums could drop by 50% or more
Already quit? If you stopped smoking more than 12 months ago and have not used any nicotine products since, you can apply as a non-smoker right now and save significantly.
Tips for Smokers Getting Life Insurance
- Never lie about smoking – Insurers can test for cotinine (a nicotine byproduct) and non-disclosure could void your entire policy
- Compare multiple insurers – Some are more competitive for smokers than others
- Consider decreasing term – Cheaper than level term for mortgage protection
- Apply while healthy – Smoking-related health conditions will increase premiums further
Frequently Asked Questions
50–100% more than non-smokers. Exact increase depends on age and insurer.
After 12 months completely nicotine-free (some insurers: 24 months).