Best Life Insurance for Seniors Over 85 (No Medical Exam Options)

Best Life Insurance for Seniors Over 85 (No Medical Exam Options)

Finding life insurance for seniors over 85 may seem difficult, but many insurance companies still offer coverage designed specifically for older applicants.
These policies are usually designed to cover final expenses such as funeral costs, outstanding bills, or to leave a small financial gift for family members.

Most policies available after age 85 are whole life or final expense insurance, which means the coverage lasts for life as long as the premiums are paid.

Can You Get Life Insurance After Age 85?

Yes. Many insurance companies offer policies for seniors between ages 85 and 90.
These policies typically provide coverage amounts between $5,000 and $25,000 and usually do not require a medical exam.

Because underwriting is simplified, approval can often happen quickly, and coverage may begin within days.

No Medical Exam Life Insurance for Seniors Over 85

One of the most common options available to seniors is no medical exam life insurance.
These policies allow applicants to qualify for coverage without undergoing a physical exam.

Many seniors choose this type of policy because:

• Coverage can be approved quickly
• No medical exam is required
• Applications are simple and fast
• Coverage can help pay funeral and final expenses

While premiums may be slightly higher than medically underwritten policies, many seniors value the convenience and accessibility.

Guaranteed Acceptance Life Insurance

Another option available to seniors is guaranteed acceptance life insurance.
These policies require no medical exam and no health questions.

As long as the applicant meets the age requirements (typically 50–90), approval is guaranteed.

These policies are often chosen by individuals with serious medical conditions who may not qualify for traditional coverage.

However, most guaranteed acceptance policies include a two-year graded benefit period.
If death occurs during the first two years from natural causes, the policy may return premiums plus interest instead of the full benefit.

Simplified Issue Life Insurance for Seniors Over 85

Simplified issue life insurance requires answering a few health questions but does not require a medical exam.

Because insurers review basic health information, applicants who qualify may receive immediate full coverage.

These policies are often more affordable than guaranteed acceptance plans when applicants meet the health requirements.

Why Seniors Over 85 Buy Life Insurance

Many families purchase life insurance at older ages for very practical reasons.
Funeral expenses today can be significant, and having funds available helps protect loved ones from unexpected financial stress.

Common reasons seniors purchase coverage include:

• Paying funeral and burial costs
• Covering final medical bills
• Leaving a small inheritance for family
• Avoiding financial burden on children

Funeral costs in the United States often range between $7,000 and $12,000, depending on the services selected.

How Much Does Life Insurance Over 85 Cost?

The price of life insurance for seniors depends on several factors.

Age: Premiums are based on the applicant’s age when coverage begins.

Health: Health conditions can affect eligibility for simplified issue policies.

Gender: Women often receive lower premiums because they statistically live longer.

Once approved, most whole life policies have level premiums that never increase.

Best Insurance Companies for Seniors Over 85

Several highly rated insurance companies offer policies designed for seniors:

• Mutual of Omaha
• Pacific Life
• Penn Mutual
• John Hancock
• Transamerica
• New York Life
• Principal Life

Each company has slightly different underwriting rules, which is why comparing multiple insurers is important.

Where to Compare Life Insurance for Seniors Over 85

Every insurance company uses different health questions and underwriting guidelines.
Working with a broker who can compare multiple carriers often increases the chances of approval and finding the best rate.

Mintco Financial helps families review several life insurance options from top-rated companies nationwide.