Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance in Idaho
Guaranteed issue life insurance exists for people who feel like they’re out of options – serious health issues, multiple declines, or just a complicated medical history.
I’m Chris Antrim, an independent agent in Boise. I work with Idaho seniors and others who’ve been told “no” before and still want to leave something behind for family or cover final expenses.
What Is Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance?
Guaranteed issue life insurance is coverage that:
Does not ask health questions, or asks almost none
Does not require a medical exam
Approves you mainly based on age and residency
Because the company isn’t screening your health like traditional policies, they manage risk in other ways:
Smaller benefit amounts
Waiting period for natural causes (commonly 2–3 years)
Higher cost per dollar of coverage than fully underwritten plans
Who Guaranteed Issue Is Designed For
Guaranteed issue can be a lifeline if you:
Have been declined for other life insurance policies
Have serious health conditions
Are an older senior with multiple medications and diagnoses
Want to make sure some coverage is in place, even if it’s not big
This is usually a last-resort tool, not the first thing we reach for. But for some Idaho clients, it’s exactly what they need.
How the Waiting Period Works
Most guaranteed issue policies have a graded benefit:
If you die from natural causes in the first 2–3 years:
The policy may return premiums plus interest, or pay a reduced benefit.
If you die from an accident in that period:
The full benefit is often paid (varies by company).
After the waiting period:
The full death benefit is payable for both natural and accidental causes
We’ll go over the specifics of any policy we consider so there are no surprises.
Guaranteed Issue vs Final Expense vs Simplified Issue
Short comparison:
Final Expense (Simplified Issue)
Health questions, sometimes small health restrictions
Better pricing if you qualify
Higher benefits possible
Guaranteed Issue Final Expense
No health questions, no exam
Smaller benefits, higher cost per dollar
Waiting period for natural causes
If you can qualify for simplified issue, we’ll usually start there. If not, guaranteed issue might be the only way to put something in place. We can also put out something about life insurance for a business owners.
When I Recommend Guaranteed Issue (Real Scenarios)
I typically consider guaranteed issue when:
A senior has serious heart issues, advanced COPD, or cancer history that’s too recent
There have been multiple declines already
The client wants a small, permanent policy and understands the waiting period
There’s no other form of affordable coverage available
My job is to be honest with you: if guaranteed issue is the best remaining option, I’ll say so. If we can do better, we will.
Coverage Amounts You Can Expect
Typical guaranteed issue death benefits:
Often start around $5,000
Range up to $25,000 or so, depending on company and age
These are not meant to replace large incomes – they are generally aimed at:
Funeral and burial/cremation costs
Small debts
Giving your family some breathing room
Cost, Budgeting, and Payment Options
Guaranteed issue will cost more per dollar of coverage than traditional policies.
To keep it workable, we’ll:
Decide on a realistic benefit amount
Align the premium to what you can comfortably pay on a fixed budget
Make sure you understand the waiting period and limitations
Next Steps If You Think Guaranteed Issue Might Be Your Only Option
If you’re in Boise or anywhere in Idaho and you’ve been declined or told your health is “too risky,” don’t assume the conversation is over.
Call/Text: (425) 761-0555
Email: [email protected]
We’ll talk openly about your health history and prior applications, and then I’ll tell you honestly whether guaranteed issue is the right path, or if there’s a better option.
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