Life Insurance with Atrial Fibrillation

Can I Get Life Insurance with Atrial Fibrillation?

Yes — atrial fibrillation (AF) does not prevent you from getting life insurance. AF is the most common heart rhythm disorder in the UK, and insurers have significant experience underwriting it. The outcome depends on the type of AF (paroxysmal, persistent, or permanent), how it is managed, and whether there are any associated conditions such as heart failure, stroke history, or structural heart disease.

In many cases, particularly for paroxysmal (intermittent) AF that is well-managed and without complications, life insurance is available at standard or modestly loaded rates. More complex AF presentations typically attract a higher loading, but cover remains available in most cases.

How Does Atrial Fibrillation Affect My Premium?

The impact on your premium depends primarily on:

• Type of AF: Paroxysmal AF (intermittent episodes that return to normal rhythm) is viewed more favourably than permanent AF
• Medication: Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin, apixaban) and rate-control medication are standard and do not significantly worsen the underwriting outcome
• Associated conditions: Structural heart disease, heart failure, or prior stroke significantly increases the loading
• Age at diagnosis: AF diagnosed at a younger age (<50) may attract more scrutiny
• Recent investigations: Up-to-date echocardiogram and ECG results help insurers assess risk accurately

What Information Will the Insurer Ask For?

Insurers will typically ask for detailed information about your AF, including:

• When were you first diagnosed and what type of AF do you have?
• What investigations have you had (ECG, echocardiogram, Holter monitor)?
• What medication are you currently taking?
• Have you had any cardioversion or ablation procedures?
• Have you experienced any stroke, TIA, or heart failure?
• Are there any other heart or cardiovascular conditions?

Up-to-date results from recent investigations significantly support your application.

Which Insurers Are Most Competitive?

Aviva, Legal & General and Royal London are among the most competitive for AF cases, though the favourable insurer depends heavily on the type of AF, associated conditions, and medication. A whole-of-market adviser will identify the best terms.

The most competitive insurer for your specific profile can only be identified by comparing the whole market. Premiums vary significantly — sometimes by 30–40% — for the same applicant across different providers.

Can I Also Get Critical Illness Cover and Income Protection?

Critical illness cover is available for AF applicants in many cases, though a loading consistent with the life insurance premium typically applies. Note that some critical illness policies may include payment for certain heart rhythm disorders — check whether your AF type would be a qualifying condition.

Income protection is generally available for AF, often with the cardiovascular system excluded from the definition of incapacity, meaning claims arising specifically from AF or related heart conditions may be excluded. Cover for all other causes of incapacity — including the majority of illnesses and injuries — remains intact.

Tips for Applying with Atrial Fibrillation

• Be fully transparent: Always disclose your full medical history. Non-disclosure is the most common reason for a declined claim — and insurers check medical records at the point of claim.
• Use a whole-of-market adviser: They know which insurers are most favourable for your condition and can submit your application to get the best available terms.
• Apply when well-controlled: If your condition is managed with medication, applying when your condition is stable and well-controlled gives the best chance of favourable terms.
• Don't self-reject: Many people assume they cannot get cover or will pay extortionate premiums. In the majority of cases, cover is available at reasonable cost.