Can I get income protection with Being Overweight or Obese?
Income protection for people who are overweight or obese is available but terms depend on your BMI, age, and any associated health conditions. A BMI of 25–30 (overweight) typically has minimal impact on IP terms. A BMI of 30–35 (obese) may attract a modest loading. A BMI above 35 is more likely to attract a higher loading or specific exclusions. Associated conditions — such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea — affect underwriting independently of BMI.
How do insurers assess Being Overweight or Obese for income protection?
Insurers review your full medical history — diagnosis date, current treatment, stability of the condition, and any time off work it has caused. The more stable your condition, the better the terms available.
What terms might be offered?
- Standard terms — if the condition is well-controlled with no recent work absences
- Exclusion — the condition excluded, all other causes of inability to work still covered
- Rated premium — higher premium reflecting additional risk
Is IP still worth it with an exclusion?
Usually yes — an exclusion only applies to the excluded condition. You're still fully protected against accidents, cancer, heart attack, and hundreds of other causes of inability to work.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the insurer and severity. Some exclude being overweight or obese-related claims; others offer standard terms if it's well-controlled. Always compare multiple insurers.
Yes — an exclusion only applies to the excluded condition. All other causes of inability to work remain fully covered.