Life Insurance with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Life Insurance: what you need to know

If you have recently been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and are looking for life insurance, it can be a daunting process to find life insurance. You may feel as though it will be too expensive or disclosing information about your condition may be uncomfortable.

The good news is that finding life insurance with rheumatoid arthritis is becoming more accessible with many life insurance providers offering suitable cover. However, it is important that you are prepared and understand the process.

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that causes pain and swelling in the joints, according to the NHS, it is the second most common arthritic condition in the UK, after osteoarthritis. 

Rheumatoid arthritis affects around 400,000 people, with women three times being likely to be affected. However, further complications can include carpal tunnel syndrome, further inflammation or an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

It is a long-term condition, with no cure, but there are treatments available to help manage symptoms and enable a high quality of life. Treatment can include medication, physiotherapy and sometimes surgery.

Can I get life insurance with rheumatoid arthritis?

If you have a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, you are able to get life insurance. There are many providers that are willing to provide suitable cover at a reasonable price.

The cost of life insurance with rheumatoid arthritis is dependent on the severity of your condition. Insurance providers may ask for medical evidence in support of this.

Why do insurers need to know about rheumatoid arthritis?

Life insurance providers assess potential customers on a case-by-case business. Therefore, it is likely for providers to request further information about your lifestyle and medical history.

As rheumatoid arthritis is a pre-existing condition, life insurance providers will want to know more about the diagnosis. This helps them to assess what level of cover you require and to work out the cost of your insurance.

Another reason that life insurers need to know about your condition is because rheumatoid arthritis can lead to further conditions or symptoms.

What information do you need to provide to insurers if you have rheumatoid arthritis?

During a life insurance application, providers will likely ask you to answer a lifestyle questionnaire. If you have a medical condition, they may request further information regarding this, for example, a GP report.

The information that life insurance providers will ask specifically about your rheumatoid arthritis can vary for each provider. Typically, you can expect insurance providers to ask:

• The date of your diagnosis
• Information about any hospital admissions
• Medication that you take for rheumatoid arthritis
• How your rheumatoid arthritis affects your daily life, e.g. time off work

In addition to this, to determine the severity of your RA and the symptoms you have, providers may request a Disease Activity Score (DAS). DAS is calculated by examining your 28 joints and assessing the inflammation level in your blood.

Providing accurate and up to date information about your condition is beneficial for your application.

Support with your rheumatoid arthritis life insurance application 

The cheapest life insurance is not always the most suitable for people with medical conditions. For help finding life insurance that meets your needs and is still at a reasonable cost, using an independent broker can be useful.

I’m Insured are an independent broker with specialist knowledge in helping those with rheumatoid arthritis find the best life insurance. If you’d like support with your application, you can get in touch with our team or get a free quote.