Body Mass Index (BMI) is an important factor that insurers consider when determining the premium for a term insurance policy.
In this article, we will discuss how BMI can affect your term insurance premium.
What is Term Insurance Premium?
A term insurance premium is the amount of money that an individual pay to an insurance company for a specific period of time, typically in exchange for a death benefit. This type of insurance is designed to provide financial protection for loved ones in the event of the policyholder’s untimely death. The premium is calculated based on several factors, including the individual’s age, health, and the coverage amount.
One of the key benefits of term insurance is that it is typically less expensive than other types of life insurance policies, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to provide financial security for their families. Overall, a term insurance premium is a small but important investment in the future, offering peace of mind and protection for loved ones.
How to Calculate BMI in Term Insurance?
Calculating your Body Mass Index (BMI) is an important step in determining your eligibility for term insurance. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. It is used to determine whether an individual is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. To calculate your BMI, you will need to know your weight and height. You can use an online calculator or a simple formula to calculate your BMI. The formula is:
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ (height (m))2
Once you have your BMI, you can compare it to the standard BMI categories to determine your weight status. It is important to note that insurance companies may use different BMI categories and may also take into account other factors such as age, gender, and overall health when determining your eligibility for term insurance. Therefore, it is important to consult with a licensed insurance agent to ensure that you are getting the best coverage for your individual needs.
5 ways BMI affect your term insurance
Premium Rates
The higher your BMI, the higher your premium rates will be. This is because term insurance companies consider individuals with a high BMI to be at a higher risk of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which can lead to a shortened lifespan. If your BMI falls into the ‘obese’ or ‘morbidly obese’ categories, you may be asked to pay significantly higher premiums.
Increased waiting period
If your BMI is considered high, you may be required to wait for a longer period of time before your policy goes into effect. This is because insurance companies want to monitor your health and make sure that you are taking steps to lower your BMI before granting coverage.
Term plan with return of premium
Another way that BMI can affect your term insurance premium is by influencing whether you are eligible for a term plan with a return of premium. This type of term plan offers a return of the premium paid if the policyholder survives the policy term. Individuals with a higher BMI may be considered a higher risk and may not be eligible for this type of term plan.
Term plan benefits
BMI can also affect the number of term plan benefits that are available under a term insurance policy. Individuals with a higher BMI may be eligible for a lower amount of benefits, as they are considered a higher risk. On the other hand, individuals with a lower BMI may be eligible for a higher amount of benefits, as they are considered lower risk.
Exclusions
Insurance companies may include exclusions for pre-existing health conditions associated with a high BMI, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. If you have these conditions, you may be required to pay higher premiums or have your coverage limited.
Conclusion
BMI is an important factor that insurers consider when determining the premium for a term insurance policy. It is essential to maintain a healthy BMI to enjoy lower premiums and better benefits under a term insurance policy.
It’s always better to consult with an insurance advisor before buying any term insurance policy. This will help you to understand the policy better, its benefits and the premium that you may have to pay. It’s always good to be informed and make an informed decision when it comes to buying an insurance policy.
