Can Diabetics Get Burial Insurance in Philadelphia?
Yes — and this surprises many Philadelphia residents. While traditional life insurance often declines diabetics or charges very high premiums, final expense insurance works differently. Many carriers that serve Philadelphia County residents specifically design their underwriting to accommodate common health conditions including diabetes.
With approximately 13% of Philadelphia's 1.6 million residents living with diabetes, local agents who specialize in final expense coverage see this situation every day. The key variables are:
- Type 2 diabetes: Almost always insurable. Most carriers have straightforward approval.
- Type 1 diabetes: Fewer options, but some carriers still offer coverage.
- Insulin use: May limit options with some carriers but not all. Guaranteed-issue policies are available as a fallback.
- How well controlled: Carriers typically ask about A1C levels and whether you've had diabetes-related complications.
Coverage Options for Diabetic Residents of Philadelphia
There are three main types of final expense policies available to diabetics in Philadelphia:
- Level benefit policies: Full coverage from day one. Available to most well-managed Type 2 diabetics. Best value.
- Graded benefit policies: Pay reduced benefits in the first 2 years, then full coverage. For diabetics with additional complications.
- Guaranteed issue policies: No health questions at all. Available to anyone 50–85. Higher premiums, but guaranteed approval.
Given that funerals in Philadelphia average $13,800, even a $10,000 policy covers the majority of costs. Monthly premiums for a diabetic in Philadelphia typically range from $45–$110 depending on age, coverage amount, and how diabetes is managed.
Why Philadelphia Diabetics Need to Plan Ahead
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death in Pennsylvania, and diabetics statistically face higher end-of-life medical costs in addition to funeral expenses. A final expense policy ensures that when the time comes, your family in Philadelphia isn't left scrambling to cover a $13,800+ funeral bill on top of everything else.
The best time to lock in coverage is before additional health complications develop. Rates are fixed once you're approved — they never go up even if your health changes later.