Life Insurance With Autism in Canada: Eligibility & Options
Discover how individuals and families living with autism can qualify for life insurance in Canada. Learn what underwriters look for, how to prepare your application, and which coverage types offer the best balance of protection and peace of mind.
📖 8 Minute Read
📅 Originally Published: December 19, 2022
🔄 Updated: November 3, 2025
Life Insurance With Autism in Canada: Eligibility & Options
Discover how individuals and families living with autism can qualify for life insurance in Canada. Learn what underwriters look for, how to prepare your application, and which coverage types offer the best balance of protection and peace of mind.
📖 8 Minute Read
📅 Originally Published: December 19, 2022
🔄 Updated: November 3, 2025
Securing life insurance when you or a loved one are on the autism spectrum can feel complicated, but with the right approach it’s entirely possible. Canadian insurers now use more personalized underwriting practices that consider overall health, independence, and treatment stability rather than labels alone. Understanding these factors can help families find fair coverage without unnecessary stress.
This guide explains how autism affects eligibility, outlines the types of life insurance that may fit different needs, and highlights practical steps such as sharing medical information safely and comparing simplified or guaranteed issue plans to improve approval odds. Whether you’re applying for yourself or your child, this information can help you make confident, informed choices about long-term financial protection and care.
In This Article:
- Overview: Life Insurance With Autism in Canada
- Key Eligibility and Underwriting Questions for Autism
- Best Canadian Insurers and No Medical Options for Autism
- How to Compare Simplified, Standard, and Guaranteed Issue Plans
- Life Insurance for Autistic Children in Canada: Age Limits and Options
- What To Do If You Are Denied Coverage
- What Happens If You Fail To Disclose Autism
- What Happens to Existing Policies After Diagnosis
- Case Studies
- Frequently Asked Questions
Overview: Life Insurance With Autism in Canada
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects many Canadians, influencing how people communicate, learn, and interact with others. Because autism is a spectrum, every person’s experience is unique and so is how insurers view each application. Having autism does not mean you cannot qualify for life insurance, but it does mean that providers may look more closely at your overall health, level of independence, and treatment history.
Many people on the autism spectrum successfully secure affordable coverage, especially when their condition is well managed and they live independently. Others may be better suited for plans with fewer medical requirements such as simplified or guaranteed issue life insurance. Understanding how insurers assess autism can help you find fair protection and peace of mind for yourself or your family.
Whether you are a parent applying on behalf of a child or an adult on the spectrum applying independently, this guide explains what to expect from Canadian insurers, how underwriting works, and which coverage options are most accessible.
Key Eligibility and Underwriting Questions for Autism
Insurers look at the whole picture when an applicant discloses autism. The goal is to understand everyday functioning, health stability, and any safety risks. Clear, consistent information helps underwriters assess applications fairly and can reduce back and forth during review.
Below is a practical checklist of what you should be ready to share. You do not need to provide more detail than requested. Answer questions accurately, keep documentation handy, and work with an advisor who can present your information in a simple format.
- Diagnosis details: age at diagnosis, who made the diagnosis, any updated assessments.
- Severity and support level: independence at home and in the community, need for supervision, ability to manage daily tasks.
- Education or work status: current school or employment, accommodations, stability over the last one to three years.
- Treatment and therapies: medications, behavioral or occupational therapy, frequency, adherence, side effects.
- Medical and mental health history: hospitalizations, self-harm history, seizures or epilepsy, substance use.
- Accident and driving history: collisions, license status, any restrictions.
- Lifestyle and safety: high-risk activities, support network, routine structure.
- Overall health: height and weight, smoking status, other conditions such as diabetes or heart issues.
- Coverage goals: amount, term length, budget, beneficiary planning.
If the profile is stable, functioning is independent, and co-morbid risks are low, standard rates are often possible. When needs are higher or information is limited, simplified or guaranteed issue plans can provide accessible protection while avoiding medical exams.
Table 1: Underwriting Focus Areas for Autism Applicants in Canada
How medical, behavioral, and lifestyle factors influence approval outcomes and rating levels.
| Underwriting Factor | How Insurers Evaluate It | Advisory Tip for Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnosis Timing and Updates | Shows stability and current functional level. | Provide assessment reports and note long-term stability. |
| Level of Independence and Support | Indicates daily living skills and supervision needs. | Describe living situation and community participation clearly. |
| Treatments and Therapies | Regular, consistent therapy signals managed condition. | List frequency, medications, and improvements over time. |
| Co-existing Conditions | Additional health issues can affect risk and pricing. | Document how each condition is controlled and monitored. |
| Driving and Safety Record | Used to evaluate risk of accident or injury. | Provide a clean record or explain past incidents briefly. |
| Coverage Goals and Policy Size | Larger coverage amounts require stronger documentation. | Match coverage to needs and budget for smoother approval. |
- Diagnosis timing: Demonstrate stability and progress → Provide updated assessments.
- Independence: Highlight daily living skills → Share examples of self-management.
- Treatment history: Show consistent care → List therapies and medication adherence.
- Co-existing conditions: Address each clearly → Provide control and specialist notes.
- Safety record: Clean driving record helps approval → Disclose past issues honestly.
- Coverage size: Right-sized plans review faster → Align amount with income and needs.
Best Canadian Insurers and No Medical Options for Autism
Parents often ask which companies are most practical when insuring a child on the autism spectrum. Eligibility for minors varies by insurer and product. Some simplified plans accept children, while many guaranteed issue plans are designed for adults only. The table below highlights child suitability first, then summarizes product paths so you can choose an option that fits your child’s age and documentation.
Use this table with your advisor to confirm current brochures and rules before you apply. If a product is not available for minors, you can consider a parent owned policy now and revisit juvenile options when eligibility improves. Right sizing the amount and providing short, clear notes about daily routines often helps.
Table 2: Insurer Paths Parents Commonly Review for Children With Autism
Child eligibility first, with concise notes on products and requirements. Confirm current brochures before applying.
| Insurer | Child Eligibility | Product & Type | Medical & Coverage Notes | Parent Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Alliance (iA) | Yes, from about 6 months | Access Life, Simplified or GI tiers | Tiered questions by plan. No exam for GI. Coverage commonly from $10,000 up to $500,000, ages roughly 6 months to 80. | Start with a right sized amount. Provide short notes on routines and therapy to show stability. |
| Assumption Life | Varies by plan and age | Simplified and GI lineup | Short questionnaire for simplified tiers. No exam for GI. Amounts and ages depend on product version. | Ask your advisor which current simplified plans accept minors and what ages apply today. |
| Canada Protection Plan | Generally adult only | Guaranteed Acceptance Life, GI | No medical questions. No exam. Typical range $5,000 to $50,000, ages about 18 to 75. | Not typical for minors. Consider parent coverage now and revisit juvenile options later. |
| Beneva | Varies by product | Simplified and GI offerings | Short form questions for simplified. No exam for GI. Limits and ages differ by version. | Have your advisor confirm which Beneva products currently allow juvenile applicants. |
| Humania | Adult only | Insurance Without Medical Exam, Simplified | 6 eligibility questions and 12 pricing questions. No exam. Typical range $5,000 to $300,000, ages about 18 to 70. | Not for minors. Keep in mind for future adult coverage or parent coverage today. |
- iA Access Life: Child eligible from about 6 months. Simplified or GI. Often $10,000 to $500,000. Provide brief notes on routines.
- Assumption Life: Juvenile access varies by plan. Short questionnaires for simplified. Confirm ages per brochure.
- Canada Protection Plan: GI for adults, about $5,000 to $50,000, ages roughly 18 to 75. Not typical for minors.
- Beneva: Juvenile availability depends on the specific simplified or GI product. Advisor confirmation required.
- Humania IWME: Adult simplified, about $5,000 to $300,000, ages about 18 to 70. Not for minors.
How to Compare Simplified, Standard, and Guaranteed Issue Plans
Choosing between standard underwriting, simplified issue, and guaranteed issue comes down to medical history, support needs, and the amount of coverage you want. The more medical information you can share, the more likely you are to access higher limits at lower premiums. If sharing details is difficult or recent health events create uncertainty, simplified or guaranteed paths can keep protection within reach.
Start by clarifying your goal, your budget, and any time constraints. If you need coverage quickly for a mortgage or family protection, simplified options may be a strong fit. If your health is stable and you can provide basic records, a standard path can offer better pricing. If you need acceptance regardless of medical history, guaranteed issue is the most accessible choice.
- Standard underwriting: Best pricing when health is stable and documentation is available.
- Simplified issue: Fewer questions and no exam, good balance of speed and coverage.
- Guaranteed issue: No questions and no exam, lower limits for essential protection.
Table 3: Comparing Standard, Simplified, and Guaranteed Issue Plans
Use this reference to match your health profile and timeline to the right application path.
| Plan Type | Medical Evidence | Typical Coverage Limits | Speed to Approval | Pricing Outlook | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Underwriting | Full questionnaire, possible reports, labs by age and amount rules | Higher limits available based on age and need | Moderate to longer, depends on requirements | Most cost effective when health is stable | Applicants with stable functioning and documentation |
| Simplified Issue | Short questionnaire, no exam | Moderate limits that fit many family needs | Fast, often within days | Higher than standard, lower than guaranteed | Applicants who want speed and fewer requirements |
| Guaranteed Issue | No questions and no exam | Lower limits for essential protection | Very fast, often instant decision | Highest relative cost per dollar of coverage | Applicants who need acceptance regardless of history |
- Standard: Full evidence, higher limits, longer timeline, best pricing when health is stable.
- Simplified: Short questions, no exam, moderate limits, quick decisions, mid range pricing.
- Guaranteed: No questions, no exam, lower limits, instant decisions, highest relative cost.
Life Insurance for Autistic Children in Canada: Age Limits and Options
Parents can secure coverage for children on the autism spectrum. The right path depends on the child’s age, daily functioning, and any co existing conditions. The goal is steady, affordable protection that can be maintained as needs change over time.
For very young children, simplified or guaranteed issue options can help when medical information is limited. For older children and teens with stable routines and regular follow ups, standard underwriting may be realistic, especially when an advisor organizes the information in a clear way. If the child has complex needs or recent hospital visits, a simplified route can provide a bridge until things are stable.
Work with an advisor to confirm current carrier rules before you apply. Program ages and limits can change, and an advisor can match the plan to your family budget and goals.
Table 4: Paths Parents Commonly Use to Insure Autistic Children
Choose the route that fits your child’s age, health stability, and documentation readiness.
| Child Scenario | Typical Path | What To Prepare | Why This Helps | Advisor Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age under school age with limited records | Guaranteed or Simplified Issue | Basic identity documents, parent ownership details, budget target | Provides immediate protection with minimal questions | Use as an entry plan and review later for upgrades |
| School age with routine care and good daily functioning | Simplified Issue or Standard based on stability | Recent physician notes, therapy summary, school support letter if available | Shows stability and structure which supports standard consideration | Present a concise history covering the last one to three years |
| Teens with stable routines and few co existing risks | Standard Underwriting when documentation is clear | Updated assessments, medication list, no recent hospitalizations | Can unlock broader product options and stronger pricing | Right size the amount to avoid extra age and amount evidence |
| Recent hospitalizations or multiple co existing conditions | Simplified Issue as a bridge | Discharge summaries, follow up plan, timeline for stability | Keeps protection in place while health stabilizes | Set a reminder to re review when stability improves |
| Family wants small benefit for final expenses only | Guaranteed Issue | Owner and beneficiary setup, coverage amount target | Fast acceptance and predictable premiums | Confirm waiting periods and benefit structure before binding |
- Under school age: Guaranteed or Simplified, quick acceptance, upgrade later when records build.
- School age, stable: Simplified or Standard, provide doctor and therapy notes, show routine.
- Teens, stable: Standard, update assessments, list medications, consider right sized amounts.
- Recent hospital visits: Simplified as a bridge, keep discharge summaries and a follow up plan.
- Final expense only: Guaranteed, simple setup, confirm any waiting period before purchase.
What To Do If You Are Denied Coverage
A decline from one company is not the end of the process. Each insurer evaluates autism differently, and decisions can vary based on documentation and recent history. Start by asking for the reason for the decision and the specific factors that drove it. With a clearer picture, your advisor can target products that fit your profile and timeline.
Consider the paths below if you receive a denial. The goal is to keep protection in place while you improve eligibility for broader options later.
- Apply with a different insurer: Underwriting guidelines differ. A clean driving record, independent living, and stable therapy can receive a more favourable view elsewhere.
- Simplified issue coverage: Fewer questions and no exam. Useful when you can answer basic health questions but want faster decisions and moderate coverage.
- Guaranteed issue coverage: No medical questions and no exam. Provides smaller coverage amounts for essential needs when traditional paths are not available.
- Right size the amount and term: Lower coverage amounts can reduce evidence requirements, which may convert a decline into an approval.
- Strengthen documentation: Gather recent physician notes, therapy summaries, and school or employment letters that show stability over the last one to three years.
- Set a review timeline: If the decline was due to recent changes, re apply after a documented period of stability.
You can also learn about the complaint process and next steps through the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada. See their guidance on how to file a complaint about your insurance company.
If you prefer to avoid medical exams or detailed questionnaires, explore simplified and guaranteed issue options. These plans can secure immediate protection while you and your advisor build a path back to standard underwriting. Small steps now can preserve insurability and protect your family while you work toward broader choices.
What Happens If You Fail To Disclose Autism
Life insurance applications require accurate medical information. If autism or any related history is left out or misstated, the insurer can treat the application as misleading. This can affect approval, future changes to the policy, and claim outcomes. Full and honest disclosure protects your coverage and helps your advisor place you with the right product.
Non disclosure or misrepresentation can lead to serious consequences. Some effects can occur during underwriting and others at claim time. The list below summarizes the most common outcomes and how to avoid them.
- Application withdrawal or decline: The insurer can stop processing an application when facts do not match records.
- Policy cancellation: A policy that was issued based on incorrect information can be voided after review.
- Claim denial: If a death claim reveals missing or inaccurate details, the insurer can deny the benefit.
- Delays and re underwriting: Missing information can trigger new questions and extend timelines.
The safest path is simple. Work with an advisor, answer the application questions as asked, and provide short supporting notes when helpful. If you are unsure whether something is relevant, disclose it briefly and let your advisor guide what the underwriter needs. When details are organized and consistent, underwriters can make fair decisions and you can secure lasting protection.
What Happens to Existing Policies After Diagnosis
If you already have life insurance and later receive an autism diagnosis, your current coverage and premiums typically stay the same. Policies are underwritten at the time of application, which means the insurer priced your risk using information available then. A new diagnosis after issue does not change an in force policy.
Renewals and conversions can work differently. Term policies that renew automatically may use the guaranteed renewal schedule in your contract. If you convert term coverage to permanent coverage, the new plan follows the conversion rules, not fresh medical underwriting. Ask your advisor to confirm the renewal rates and conversion deadlines so you can plan ahead with confidence.
If you are considering more coverage after a diagnosis, the insurer will assess your current health and history for the new policy. Some applicants will still qualify for standard rates when functioning is independent and co existing risks are low. Others may find simplified or guaranteed issue options more accessible. Keep your existing policy active while you evaluate new options so there is no gap in protection.
Get Personalized Advice & Life Insurance Quotes for Autism
Finding the right policy for autistic adults and families can feel complex. Our licensed advisors at Protect Your Wealth compare standard underwriting, simplified issue, and guaranteed issue options, then tailor coverage to your budget and goals. We regularly work with leading Canadian insurers such as Manulife, iA Financial, and Canada Life.
Bring a short summary of daily routines, recent physician notes, and your coverage target. We serve clients in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. Get clear comparisons, understand eligibility, and secure protection that fits your family.
Case Studies
Profile: Autistic adult, independent living, non smoker, part time software tester. No hospital visits in 3 years.
- Problem: Wanted a 20 year term for income protection but was unsure which path fit best.
- Approach: Submitted a short summary of daily routines, recent family doctor note, and therapy schedule. Applied through a standard path with a right sized amount to avoid extra evidence.
- Resolution: Approved at standard rates for a moderate coverage amount that fit budget and goals.
Takeaway: Independent functioning plus clear documentation can support standard decisions for autistic adults.
Profile: Parents applying for their 12 year old daughter with autism. Stable school routine, weekly therapy, no recent hospitalizations.
- Problem: Needed coverage quickly for family planning and future expenses.
- Approach: Started with a simplified issue plan for fast approval. Collected school and therapist letters to consider standard underwriting in the future.
- Resolution: Simplified policy issued within days. A review was scheduled for next year to assess a move to standard underwriting.
Takeaway: A simplified plan can act as a bridge to standard coverage once a longer record of stability is documented.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get life insurance if I am on the autism spectrum?
Yes. Many autistic adults qualify for traditional coverage. If your health information is limited or recent, simplified or guaranteed issue options can provide accessible protection without exams.
What do life insurers look at when I disclose autism?
Insurers review diagnosis timing, level of independence, therapies and medications, school or work stability, driving record, co existing conditions such as epilepsy or diabetes, and overall health. Clear, consistent documentation helps.
Does life insurance cost more for autistic people?
Pricing depends on total risk. Independent functioning, stable treatment, and few co existing risks can support standard rates. More complex needs may lead to a rating or a simplified or guaranteed issue pathway with smaller limits.
Can parents apply for life insurance on a child with autism?
Yes. Parents or legal guardians can own policies for children. Eligibility, minimum ages, and limits vary by carrier. An advisor can confirm current rules and whether simplified or guaranteed options are more suitable for younger ages.
What documents should I prepare for the application?
Have recent physician notes, therapy summaries, medication list, any assessments, and a short description of daily functioning. If applicable, include school or workplace support letters and a brief history covering the last one to three years.
Will my existing policy change if I am diagnosed after purchase?
No. In force policies are underwritten at issue. A new diagnosis after the policy starts does not change existing coverage or premiums. Renewal and conversion terms follow the original contract rules.
Are there waiting periods with guaranteed issue policies?
Many guaranteed issue plans include a limited benefit period in the first two years for non accidental death. Review the contract details before purchase so you understand when the full benefit applies.
Should I choose term or permanent coverage?
Term can be efficient for time bound needs such as mortgage or income replacement. Permanent coverage can support lifelong needs and final expenses. Some families blend both types to match different goals and budgets.
How do co existing conditions affect approval?
Conditions such as seizures, depression, or diabetes can affect pricing or product choice. Stable management and specialist follow up usually help. If risks are higher, simplified or guaranteed issue may be the right first step.
What improves my chances of approval?
Right size the amount, provide concise documentation, and choose the path that matches your profile. Standard underwriting can reward stability. Simplified or guaranteed issue can provide immediate protection while you build a record of stability.
Finding the right life insurance policy for you
If you are someone on the autism spectrum who is interested in getting life insurance but aren’t sure where to start, you can discuss things with a life insurance advisor. At Protect Your Wealth, we work with and compare policies and quotes from the best life insurance companies in Canada to ensure the best solution for you and your needs. We provide expert life insurance solutions, including no medical life insurance, critical illness insurance, term life insurance, and permanent life insurance to help you get the protection you need. Schedule a consultation about your financial goals and needs by contacting Protect Your Wealth or call us at 1-877-654-6119 to talk to an advisor today! We’re proudly based out of Hamilton, and service clients anywhere in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, including areas such as Kitchener, Calgary, and Burnaby.
Life Insurance With Autism in Canada
Find out how autism spectrum disorder can affect life insurance in Canada.
8 minute read
Originally published: December 19, 2022
Updated: February 09, 2024
Life Insurance With Autism in Canada
Find out how autism spectrum disorder can affect life insurance in Canada.
8 minute read
Originally published: December 19, 2022
Updated: February 09, 2024
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a common neurological and developmental disorder that affects many Canadians. ASD affects communication, social interaction, learning, and behavior. As this is a spectrum disorder, individuals affected by autism may present with varying levels of severity, from very severe to mild. While it is definitely possible to get life insurance with autism in Canada, there are certain challenges autistic individuals may face.
In this article:
- Can You Get Life Insurance With Autism?
- How Life Insurance is Affected by Autism
- What to Do if You Are Denied Insurance
- What Happens if You Fail to Disclose Autism
- Best Canadian Life Insurance Companies for Autism
- What Happens to Existing Life Insurance if You Get Diagnosed?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Life Insurance with Autism
Can You Get Life Insurance With Autism?
Yes, autistic individuals are still eligible for life insurance and can choose from a variety of life insurance plans the same as anyone else. That being said, if you are interested in a traditional fully underwritten life insurance policy you will need to disclose information about any medical conditions you are diagnosed with, including ASD. Based on the specifics of your condition, you might have to pay more in premiums and if your condition is severe enough you may not qualify for certain life insurance plans. Autistic individuals that are difficult to insure due to severe symptoms and would rather not discuss their medical history, can opt for a guaranteed issue or simplified issue life insurance policy instead as these plans do not require a medical exam and ask limited medical questions. Here are two different case studies that demonstrate an example of an autistic person interested in life insurance.
Case Study #1:
Haley is a Canadian woman in her forties who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder when she was still a child, but is otherwise in good health. She has low support needs, is highly functioning, and has been able to live independently and maintain a stable career. Haley is also a single mother of two teenage daughters that she would like to protect financially by purchasing a life insurance policy in case she were to pass away unexpectedly. Because she is highly functioning and otherwise healthy, was diagnosed so long ago, and she has been able to support herself and her daughters with a stable career, this demonstrates to potential insurers that she is low risk to insure. Therefore, Haley has no difficulty qualifying for a traditional life insurance policy through a popular life insurance provider. She decides to purchase a 10 year term life insurance policy as her children will likely move out of the house and become more financially independent within the next 10 years. She also gets $200,000 in coverage as she believes this will be enough coverage to make up for any lack of income and end of life expenses that would come with an unexpected death.
Case Study #2:
Richard is a 50 year old diabetic man who was recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. He is not overly surprised by this diagnosis as it helps explain why he always struggled to maintain a traditional career. Despite his struggles he started a home business selling handmade pet beds that has recently become more popular and has been contributing more to the household income. His wife, who has a high paying career, suggests they purchase life insurance so that they will both be able to financially recover in case of an unexpected death as they both rely on each other’s support. At first they look into purchasing a joint life insurance policy as it is typically a good option for couples. However, since Richard was only recently diagnosed with ASD and he has another pre-existing condition since he is also diabetic, he has difficulty finding a traditional life insurance policy that he qualifies for. He and his wife talk things over and decide that it would be better to get separate life insurance policies as he is more likely to qualify for a guaranteed issue life insurance policy and he doesn’t need as much coverage as his wife since he has a lower income. His wife ends up choosing a permanent life insurance policy with $250,000 in coverage and Richard purchases a guaranteed issue policy with $50,000 in coverage with no medical exams or questions required.
How Life Insurance is Affected by Autism
The impact of autism on life insurance coverage may vary depending on the specific policy and the insurance company. Some life insurance companies may consider an individual with autism to be a higher risk for life insurance coverage and may charge higher premiums or exclude coverage for certain conditions related to autism. Other insurance companies may be more willing to provide coverage, but may require additional medical information in order for applicants to qualify for certain policies.
Life insurance companies will generally consider a variety of factors to assess the risk of insuring you as this will determine the premiums you will be charged for coverage. Some of the factors that insurance companies may consider when evaluating a life insurance application from an individual with autism include:
- The Severity of the Diagnosis: More severe cases of ASD will be considered higher risk to insure and less severe cases will be considered lower risk.
- When the Diagnosis Was Made: An individual who was diagnosed with autism at a younger age may be considered a lower risk as they have had more time to demonstrate how ASD affects them.
- Overall Health: It is standard for life insurance companies to consider the overall health of the individual when determining coverage premiums and eligibility. Those with pre-existing conditions may face more challenges than otherwise healthy individuals.
- Level of Functioning: Life insurance companies may also consider the level of functioning for individuals with ASD. This includes the ability to communicate, care for themselves, and participate in activities of daily living. Individuals that are higher functioning with more autonomy will be considered lower risk.
- Treatment and Management: When applying for life insurance, individuals with autism who manage their autism with treatments including any therapies, medications, or other solutions will be considered lower risk.
Here is a quick overview of the different factors that can increase your risk to insure if you have autism:
In many cases individuals with autism who are high-functioning, have participated in treatments or medications, and aren’t an accident risk with full autonomy over themselves, will have a standard rating as long as they are in otherwise good health. This means that they would pay the same amount as someone without autism would for the same coverage. It is important to keep in mind that each life insurance company has its own underwriting guidelines and policies, and that the coverage offered through different insurers can vary significantly.
What to Do if You Are Denied Insurance
It is unfortunately possible to be declined for traditional life insurance due to an autism diagnosis if it is severe enough. If you’ve had an application denied there are still a few options for you to get coverage such as through guaranteed and simplified issue life insurance policies.
Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
- Designed for difficult to insure individuals.
- No medical exams or questionnaires required.
- Less maximum coverage than a traditional policy.
- Premiums are more expensive than traditional insurance.
Simplified Issue Life Insurance
- Applicants must complete a medical questionnaire.
- No medical exams required.
- Designed for applicants with more moderately severe conditions.
- Premiums can be slightly more expensive than traditional insurance.
What Happens if You Fail to Disclose Autism
It’s normal to worry about being denied coverage for something that’s out of your control, such as an autism diagnosis. But it’s important to keep in mind that failing to disclose medical information to your insurer is never a good idea and can lead to more issues than an application denial.
Life insurance providers collect information directly from applicants and from relevant medical professionals if they are given permission from the applicant. However, insurers might also use databases such as the MIB (Medical Information Bureau) to validate any information the applicant did or did not give them. This is why it’s vital to be transparent with insurance providers as failing to disclose truthful and accurate information on a life insurance application may be considered fraudulent and may result in serious consequences.
Withholding information from a life insurance provider may also come with additional consequences such as policy termination and refusal of a death benefit claim if they find out that an applicant wasn’t truthful on their application. Individuals with autism should be sure to disclose their diagnosis when relevant and be sure to provide accurate and truthful information to insurers so that their ability to receive life insurance coverage isn’t negatively affected.
Best Life Insurance Companies if You Have Autism
There are many different life insurance options for people with autism. Traditional fully underwritten policies are ideal for autistic individuals that are high functioning and low risk to ensure. For those with more severe autism who are at higher risk to insure a simplified or guaranteed issue life insurance policy may be a better option as they do not require a medical exam. Here are some great examples of life insurance companies that offer simplified and guaranteed issue life insurance to individuals with autism:
Industrial Alliance (iA) – Access Life
Coverage: $10,000 – $500,000
Length of coverage: 15, 20, or 25 year terms or whole life
Issue ages: 6 months-80 years
Number of questions:
- No questions for Guaranteed Access
- 5 medical questions for Deferred
- 9 medical questions for Deferred Plus
- 13 medical questions for Immediate Plus
No medical exam required
Sun Life Financial – Sun Life Go Guaranteed Life Insurance
Coverage: $5,000 – $25,000
Length of coverage: Whole life
Issue ages: 30-74
Number of questions:
- No medical questions
No medical exam required
Humania Assurance – Insurance without Medical Exam (IWME)
Coverage: $5,000 – $300,000
Length of coverage: 10, 20, or 100 year terms
Issue ages: 18-70
Number of questions:
- 6 questions to determine eligibility
- 12 medical questions to determine premium rates
No medical exam required
Canada Protection Plan (CPP) – Guaranteed Acceptance Life
Coverage: $5,000 – $50,000
Length of coverage: Whole life
Issue ages: 18-75
Number of questions:
- No medical questions
No medical exam required
Here is a helpful overview of the different simplified and guaranteed issue life insurance policies listed that are ideal for those with autism:
What Happens to Existing Life Insurance if You Get Diagnosed?
Those who have already purchased insurance do not have to worry about an autism diagnosis affecting their coverage or premiums. Since policies are underwritten at the start of the contract a new diagnosis of autism will not affect your current coverage. However, it is important to note that those with term insurance who would like to renew their policy or convert to permanent life insurance should be aware that a new diagnosis could result in differences in premium pricing unless it is a guaranteed issue policy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Life Insurance with Autism
Finding the right life insurance policy for you
If you are someone on the autism spectrum who is interested in getting life insurance but aren’t sure where to start, you can discuss things with a life insurance advisor. At Protect Your Wealth, we work with and compare policies and quotes from the best life insurance companies in Canada to ensure the best solution for you and your needs. We provide expert life insurance solutions, including no medical life insurance, critical illness insurance, term life insurance, and permanent life insurance to help you get the protection you need.
Schedule a consultation about your financial goals and needs by contacting Protect Your Wealth or call us at 1-877-654-6119 to talk to an advisor today! We’re proudly based out of Hamilton, and service clients anywhere in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, including areas such as Kitchener, Calgary, and Burnaby.
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