Life Insurance for Autistic People
Life Insurance for Autistic People
Securing life insurance can feel overwhelming for individuals with autism or their families. Many worry about whether a diagnosis of autism will affect eligibility, coverage options, or pricing. The good news is that life insurance is available for autistic people — and with the right guidance, you can find policies that provide both protection and peace of mind.
At Diversified Insurance Brokers, we specialize in helping families and individuals across the country access coverage tailored to unique health situations. We partner with more than 75 carriers, including companies experienced in underwriting autism, so you can compare options and secure the right policy.
Can People With Autism Get Life Insurance?
Yes, people with autism can qualify for life insurance. Coverage eligibility depends on the type and severity of autism, overall health, and daily functioning. Some applicants may qualify for traditional fully underwritten policies, while others may need simplified issue or guaranteed issue coverage depending on medical history and lifestyle factors.
While autism itself is not an automatic decline, underwriters will typically evaluate:
- Level of functioning and independence
- Employment and education history
- Medical treatments, medications, or therapies
- Any related conditions such as seizures, anxiety, or depression
Types of Life Insurance Available for Autistic People
Just like with any other applicant, people with autism can choose from different life insurance options:
- Term Life Insurance: Provides affordable coverage for a set period (10–30 years). Best for income replacement or protecting family during working years.
- Whole Life Insurance: Offers lifelong protection and builds cash value. Can help with long-term planning, estate needs, or special needs trusts.
- Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance: Available without medical questions or exams, but typically with lower coverage amounts and higher premiums. A fallback option if traditional coverage is declined.
Our advisors compare multiple companies to find the most favorable option, whether you’re looking for term coverage or permanent protection.
How Underwriting Works for Autism
Underwriting for autistic applicants can vary widely depending on the insurance company. Some carriers have more flexible guidelines than others. Factors that may improve your chances include:
- Stable daily living with minimal assistance
- Steady employment or school enrollment
- No history of hospitalizations or self-harm
- Limited or no medication use
By working with an experienced broker, you can identify carriers most likely to provide fair pricing and approvals.
Planning Considerations for Families
Families of autistic individuals often face unique planning needs. Life insurance can be a key piece in ensuring long-term care and financial security. For example, parents may want to fund a special needs trust with life insurance proceeds, ensuring that their child has resources without jeopardizing government benefits.
In these cases, permanent life insurance such as whole life or guaranteed universal life is often recommended. Our team helps families design policies that integrate with trusts and broader estate planning strategies.
Steps to Get Life Insurance With Autism
If you or a loved one has autism, here’s how to begin the process:
- Work with an independent broker who has experience with high-risk life insurance.
- Provide details about medical history, medications, and lifestyle.
- Compare quotes across multiple carriers to find the best fit.
- Choose between term, permanent, or guaranteed issue depending on eligibility and goals.
Diversified Insurance Brokers guides you through every step — from application to approval.
Request a Life Insurance Quote
Whether for yourself or a family member with autism, we’ll compare multiple carriers and find the right coverage for your needs.
How Diversified Insurance Brokers Can Help
As a fiduciary, family-owned agency licensed in all 50 states, Diversified Insurance Brokers specializes in high-risk life insurance cases, including coverage for autistic individuals. We compare high-risk life insurance options, work with top-rated carriers, and design strategies that protect families long term.
We also help with related needs such as life insurance alternatives and long-term care planning, giving families a comprehensive plan for the future.
FAQs: Life Insurance for Autistic People
Can people with autism get life insurance?
Yes. Many carriers offer life insurance to autistic individuals depending on health, independence, and related conditions.
Which type of life insurance is best for autistic applicants?
It depends on needs and eligibility. Some qualify for term or whole life, while others may need guaranteed issue coverage.
Will autism automatically disqualify someone from coverage?
No. Each carrier has different guidelines. Many applicants qualify, though coverage may depend on daily living and medical history.
Do life insurance companies ask about medications?
Yes. Insurers may ask about prescriptions, but stable medication use doesn’t always prevent approval.
Can parents buy life insurance for a child with autism?
Yes. Parents often purchase coverage to fund trusts or provide future resources for their child’s care.
Are there policies that don’t require medical exams?
Yes. Simplified issue and guaranteed issue policies require no exams and can be good options if traditional coverage is difficult.
Can life insurance fund a special needs trust?
Yes. Many families use permanent life insurance to provide long-term funding for a special needs trust.
Is coverage more expensive for autistic individuals?
Premiums may be higher if there are related conditions, but with the right carrier, affordable options are available.
What if someone is declined for traditional coverage?
Guaranteed issue life insurance is available without health questions, ensuring that coverage is still possible.
