Hello!

My husband and I beefed up our life insurance policy after our 18mo old was born. At the time, I still weighed around 200lbs and we pay significantly more for my policy as a result. Has anyone had success requesting another physical to have their rate redetermined. Is that even possible? Our policy is through USAA.

Thanks!
Have a great IP weekend!

Did you call them? Suzi Orman on Biggest Loser definitely said to call them and tell them that you have lost weight.

I'm curious about this, too. I want to apply for life insurance when I reach my goal weight, but every application I've seen asks if "are you now or have you ever in the past" been overweight, on high blood pressure medication, had high cholesterol, etc. It seems like they penalize you for past medical history even if you are at a healthy point now. Maybe someone with an insurance background will respond.

Disclaimer: I am an insurance agent.

Answer: This is called "reconsideration" and most companies will allow you to do this. The reason why is because if you're healthy enough to get a lower rate with them then you're healthy enough to get a new policy elsewhere and they don't want you to leave.

It is very important to find out your specific companies policy on this before you do anything. The last thing you want to do is end up without insurance or with a higher rate due to something unexpected. I don't know of any company that would raise your rate but every state has different insurnace laws and every company has different rules.

As for the OP - I'm certain USAA would allow for reconsideration. They are one of the best insurance companies out there for how they treat their customers.

Prior health makes a very big different for future health because so much disease is hereditary. The health of your parents can come into play as well.

That said - current health is what matters most. I have a client who 4 years ago had a tumor removed which led to a staph infection. He almost died and was in the hospital for almost two months and took six months total to recover. He was able to qualify for preferred rates.

Each case is unique and not every insurance company is the same as to rules. I have another client in his 60's with diabetes who was declined by one company but insured by another.

Thank you for your responses! I think I'll try to get a little closer to my goal and make a call!

I don't have my height/weight chart with me but I'm pretty certain right now you're light enough to be preferred. That said - they may want to see you maintain your new weight for a while before they will lower your rate.

Regardless- I would call them now and find out their rules because it might be you can start saving now and getting closer to your goal will make no difference.

Good point. Thanks, John!