One of the factors that determines rates for life insurance is tobacco use. Life insurance companies regularly test for nicotine use because the industry has determined that nicotine use affects average life spans in humans. There is a process for testing, and it affects your insurance rates.
Process
Life insurance companies can test for nicotine using one of several methods. The most common methods are the use of a saliva test. A swab is inserted into your mouth and held for several minutes. Then the sample is collected and sent to a lab approved by a life insurance company. The other method insurers use is a blood test. A blood sample is collected and tested at an insurer-approved testing facility.
Significance
The significance of a nicotine rating from a life insurer is that your premiums are higher than if you did not use nicotine. The difference in your premium depends entirely on your age, whether you smoke or use other forms of tobacco, and how much you use as well as the frequency of use.
Warning
If you attempt to conceal the fact that you use nicotine, it will constitute fraud. If the insurer finds out, it can cancel your insurance contract. This is true even after you die. The insurer can refuse payment to the beneficiaries. Additionally, you may subject to criminal prosecution if you are caught.
Misconceptions
A common misconception is that a nicotine rating is permanent. Many life insurance companies allow you to reapply to lower your premiums and change your ratings. You must have stopped using nicotine products for at least 12 months in most cases, however.
Considerations
Even if you use nicotine now, consider buying life insurance anyway. You can always apply for a non-tobacco rating afterward. Even though you may not be able to purchase as much of a death benefit as you need with a tobacco rating, some life insurance may be better than none at all.
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