Life Insurance for Kidney Disease

 

If you’re living with kidney disease, you may have found it challenging to get the right support and advice when looking for life insurance. Many people worry that their condition will make cover unaffordable or even unavailable. The good news is: options do exist, and we’re here to help you understand them.

On this page, we’ll guide you through:

• What types of life insurance are available
• Understanding how kidney disease may shape your cover options
• How to get the best policy for you

 

What is life insurance?

Life insurance is designed to provide financial security for your loved ones or business if you pass away. Your policy could pay a lump sum or a regular income to support those you leave behind — helping to cover things like mortgage costs, everyday expenses or funeral costs.

 

Types of life insurance

There’s more to life insurance than just covering a mortgage. Some options include:

• Family life insurance – Pays a lump sum to your loved ones to support everyday living costs. Can be taken individually or joint with a partner.
• Family income benefit – Instead of a lump sum, this provides a regular monthly income to your chosen loved ones.
• Over 50s life insurance – Guaranteed acceptance with no medical exam.
• Tip: Answering two short medical questions can reduce the payout waiting period from 2 years to 6 months.
• Whole of life insurance – Covers you for your entire life (not just a set term) and guarantees a payout whenever you pass away.
• Mortgage life insurance – Designed to clear your mortgage if you die during the policy term.
• Business protection insurance – Includes group life cover, key person insurance, shareholder protection and business loan protection.

 

Things to consider when considering life insurance

• How long do you want the cover to last (term)?
• How much cover do you need (to cover mortgage, rent, living costs, funeral expenses)?
• Your medical and family history — it’s best to be honest, as a faulty application can affect the policy, and it may not payout when it’s needed.

 

Can I get life insurance if I have kidney disease?

Yes — the cost and availability of cover can vary depending on your diagnosis, treatment, and kidney function (especially eGFR readings). In many cases, specialist brokers can help you find cover even if you’ve been declined elsewhere.

 

For example:

• If your kidney function is normal or only slightly reduced, life insurance is often available at standard prices or with just a small increase. Even if your kidney function is lower, cover can still be possible with the right specialist support. A broker will guide you through the process and help you understand any costs involved, so you know exactly what you are getting.
• People living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) can get life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection.

 

What affects the cost of cover?

• Your diagnosis (type of kidney disease)
• Your current eGFR and creatinine levels
• Your age at application (younger applicants sometimes face higher monthly premiums)
• Whether you’ve had a transplant (there’s usually a 2-year wait after transplant before full cover is available — interim cover will be recommended during this period)

 

Case Study Example - Mortgage Life Cover for Polycystic Kidney Disease

 

Client Profile

• Male
• Single father, full-time employed
• Income: £73,000
• One dependent (6-year-old son)
• Non-smoker

 

Protection Secured

• £240,000 life Insurance (to cover mortgage debt)
• 22-year term (to cover mortgage)
• £34.98 monthly premium

 

Medical History

• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) — eGFR 90, no symptoms
• High Blood Pressure — controlled with medication
• Stage 1 Melanoma (2007) — treated, no spread, partial sight loss
• Family history: Father diagnosed with PKD

 

Outcome
Despite medical disclosures, we secured affordable cover to protect his son and family home, if the worst were to happen.

 

What if I’ve been declined before?

A decline elsewhere doesn’t mean you can’t get cover. A brokerage, such as The Insurance Surgery, that understands kidney disease can help get your application accepted.

 

What information will I need to apply?

• Date of diagnosis
• Current medications
• Your general health and history of flare-ups
• Recent eGFR and creatinine results
• Details of any surgeries or treatments

 

Why work with a life insurance broker?

Applying through a broker who understands kidney disease can make all the difference. They will:

• Review your application carefully
• Know which insurers offer the best rates for your condition
• Request and follow up on any required medical reports on your behalf
• Provide support and advice on the best options for your needs

 

Life insurance brokers:

• The Insurance Surgery – Experts in covering medical conditions, including kidney transplant patients.
• Website: the-insurance-surgery.co.uk
• Tel: 0800 083 2829 | Email: [email protected]
• BIBA (British Insurance Brokers Association) – A directory of insurance brokers.
• Website: biba.org.uk
• Tel: 0344 7700 266 | Email: [email protected]

NKF Caveat

Although we have a rigorous screening process, we always advise conducting your own research to make an informed decision. We do not endorse any specific provider, including the ones listed on this page. 

 

Donation Caveat

We have collaborated with a specialist insurance broker to provide you with the above information. If you choose to purchase a policy from The Insurance Surgery, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the National Kidney Federation. This contribution is provided by the company and will not result in any additional costs to you.

This content was written and approved by the insurance surgery in May 2025