Getting Life Insurance After a Heart Attack – How It Works (Canada)
Hi, WealthTrack founder David Pipe here. If you've had a heart attack, you already know how life can change in an instant. Whether you're recovering well or still facing follow-up care, one question often bubbles up for people: "Can I still get life insurance?"
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no — but if you’re willing to explore your options and stay realistic, there’s real hope. In Canada, many insurers will still consider your application after a heart event. You may face higher premiums or limited options at first, but the door isn’t closed.
Let’s walk through what you need to know — no scare tactics, no false promises, just a clear-eyed look at how it works.
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Why This Matters
A heart attack forces you to take stock of everything — your health, your finances, your loved ones. Life insurance becomes more than just a policy; it becomes a way to protect your family from uncertainty. Unfortunately, many people assume that a cardiac event automatically disqualifies them from coverage.
That’s not entirely true. While it complicates things, it doesn’t make them impossible.
How Life Insurers View Heart Attacks
Life insurance companies in Canada assess risk based on your health history. A heart attack — especially a recent or severe one — raises red flags. But they won’t outright reject every case.
Here’s what they typically want to know:
When did the heart attack happen?
The more time that has passed without further complications, the better your odds. Most insurers prefer a waiting period of 6–12 months post-event before accepting new applications.How severe was it?
A minor episode with no lasting damage is viewed differently than a major cardiac event requiring surgery or stents.What treatment did you receive?
Angioplasty, bypass surgery, medication — all of this matters, and it should be documented.What is your current health like?
Do you smoke? How’s your cholesterol? Are you following a cardiac rehab plan or continuing to see a specialist?
This is where underwriters step in — the folks who weigh risk for the insurer. They may request medical reports, lab results, or even a letter from your cardiologist.
What Types of Policies Might Be Available?
The key to finding coverage after a heart attack is knowing your options — and choosing the right type of policy based on your health status and financial goals.
1. Traditional Life Insurance (Fully Underwritten)
This is the standard kind — usually the most affordable if you qualify. But after a heart attack, approval is tougher and premiums are higher. Some insurers may postpone your application for 12 months or more.
Still, if you’ve had a minor event, recovered well, and have strong follow-up care, you might get approved with rated premiums (i.e., a surcharge).
2. Simplified Issue Life Insurance
This policy doesn’t require a medical exam but does include a health questionnaire. It’s faster and easier to apply for than traditional coverage.
However, coverage amounts are lower, and prices are higher. Good for people with moderate impairments.
3. Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
No health questions. No medicals. Everyone gets approved. But — and this is key — these policies come with limitations:
Typically capped at $25,000–$50,000
2-year waiting period before full payout (unless accidental death)
Expensive relative to the payout
Still, for someone who has been denied other options, guaranteed issue life insurance is a safety net. It’s often used to cover final expenses.
What Affects Your Chances and Costs
Insurers want to see a clear pattern of recovery and lifestyle change:
Have you stopped smoking?
Are you taking your medications as prescribed?
Have you improved your diet or started exercising?
Do you attend regular checkups with your cardiologist?
Some companies even reward improved health markers with better rates after a few years — especially if you’ve stayed heart-attack-free and your doctor provides a positive health update.
How Much More Will It Cost?
Here’s the honest truth: life insurance after a heart attack isn’t cheap.
A healthy 45-year-old male might pay $40/month for a $250,000 term life policy. The same person — after a heart attack — might pay $80 to $120/month or more, depending on the severity and how recent it was.
If your condition is considered too risky, a traditional policy may be off the table. That’s when simplified or guaranteed options come in — typically $50 to $150/month for lower coverage.
Tips for Applying After a Heart Attack
Wait the right amount of time.
Don’t rush. Most insurers want to see at least 6–12 months of recovery before they’ll seriously assess your application.Get your medical documents in order.
Ask your cardiologist for a summary letter outlining your event, treatment, and current prognosis.Work with a broker, not just one company.
A licensed life insurance broker who works with multiple Canadian carriers can find the best fit for your situation. Some insurers are simply more lenient than others.Be honest.
Don’t leave anything out on your application. If the insurer finds you were dishonest (and they will check), your claim could be denied — and that defeats the whole point.Reapply if things improve.
Some people start with guaranteed or simplified policies, then reapply for better coverage a few years later.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not a Closed Door
A heart attack might change your outlook, your habits — and yes, your insurability. But in Canada, life insurance isn’t off-limits to survivors. You may have fewer options or higher premiums, but protection is still possible.
Whether you’re trying to leave something behind for your kids, cover final expenses, or just get peace of mind, don’t assume it’s out of reach. Talk to someone who understands the landscape. Get pre-qualified quotes. And don’t let fear keep you from exploring your options.
Because if there’s one thing a heart attack teaches you, it’s that tomorrow isn’t guaranteed — but you can still plan for it.
