Quick answer · Updated August 2026
Obese adults can absolutely get UK life insurance. Typical 2026 pricing: BMI 30–35 adds 25–50% to standard premiums, BMI 35–40 adds 50–100%, and BMI 40+ is case-by-case — Aviva and Vitality accept to around BMI 45. Insurers verify weight via GP records, so declare accurately; the wrong-insurer penalty is far bigger than the BMI loading itself.
Loading by BMI Band (August 2026)
| BMI band | Typical loading | Example: £200k/20yr at 40yo |
|---|---|---|
| Up to ~30 | Standard rates | ~£14–22/mo |
| 30–35 | +25–50% | ~£18–33/mo |
| 35–40 | +50–100% | ~£22–44/mo |
| 40–45 | Case-by-case; some decline | ~£30–60/mo where accepted |
| 45+ | Specialist underwriting only | Broker essential |
Indicative; co-existing diabetes, blood pressure or sleep apnoea compound loadings.
Getting the Best Outcome
- Insurer choice is everything above BMI 35 — acceptance thresholds and loadings differ sharply; a broker's anonymous pre-underwriting avoids a decline landing on your record.
- Don't understate your weight — GP records are checked, and inaccuracy is non-disclosure that can void a claim.
- Losing 5–10kg before applying can drop a whole rate band; re-applying after sustained loss can cut an existing premium too.
- Athletic build? If your BMI is muscle, ask for athletic-build consideration (Aviva, Royal London entertain it). Full detail: our high-BMI guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — BMI 30–40 is routinely accepted with a 25–100% loading, and Aviva and Vitality accept to around BMI 45. Above that, specialist brokers can still usually place cover.
Rarely below BMI 40–45 unless combined with other conditions. Avoid direct one-insurer applications though — a recorded decline makes future applications harder. Pre-underwrite anonymously via a broker.
Not automatically on an existing policy — but sustained loss justifies re-applying at a better rate, and even 5–10kg before a first application can drop you a band.