Guide
No-exam life insurance
Which applicants are eligible, the process they follow, and what happens for those who don't qualify.
Accelerated underwriting is now standard at many carriers: within age and coverage limits, they issue a decision based on your application, RX history, driving record and other records without scheduling an exam. Some approvals happen within hours. Every quote here indicates whether that carrier requires an exam, might request one, or doesn't need one.
What it changes
No exam is not the same as no underwriting: your responses are still checked thoroughly. Policies issued based on false information can be challenged within the first two years. If the carrier's records suggest a need for verification, they may request an exam or tests anyway—you then choose whether to proceed.
Who tends to qualify
Generally, those under about 60 seeking coverage within the carrier's fast-track ceiling, without significant health issues and no tobacco in the past year or longer, qualify. Carriers may also accept recent lab work from your doctor instead of scheduling a new exam.
An exam, if required, is typically a quick 20-30 minute appointment at your home or workplace with a paramedical professional, covered at no expense. For many healthy applicants, results in a better rate class, so the exam is not necessarily a drawback.