Can You Get Life Insurance with a Heart Condition?
Yes. Many people with heart conditions, including previous heart attacks, angina, heart surgery, and high cholesterol, can get life insurance in the UK. Terms depend on the specific condition, how well it is managed, and how recently it was diagnosed or treated.
How Insurers Assess Heart Conditions
- Type of condition – High cholesterol and controlled high blood pressure are viewed differently from a recent heart attack
- Time since event – More time since a cardiac event generally means better terms
- Current treatment – Statins, beta-blockers, or other medications
- Test results – Ejection fraction, stress test results, angiogram findings
- Lifestyle factors – Whether you smoke, exercise, and maintain a healthy weight
Common Heart Conditions and Insurance
| Condition | Typical Assessment |
|---|---|
| High cholesterol (controlled) | Standard to small loading |
| High blood pressure (controlled) | Standard to small loading |
| Heart murmur (benign) | Usually standard rates |
| Angina | Loaded premiums, depends on severity |
| Previous heart attack | Loaded, typically 6–12 months minimum wait |
| Heart bypass / stent | Loaded, typically 6–12 months after procedure |
| Heart failure | Difficult but possible with specialist brokers |
Tip: If you have been declined for life insurance due to a heart condition, do not give up. Different insurers have vastly different appetites for cardiac risk. A specialist broker who deals with impaired life insurance can often find cover where direct applications fail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, usually after 6–12 months. Premiums will be higher, depending on recovery and test results.
Controlled with medication: usually standard rates. Uncontrolled: may lead to higher premiums.