Yes, you can get life insurance with Parkinson’s disease. If your symptoms are stable and progression is mild, affordable coverage is still within reach, especially with the right insurer.
In this guide, we show you the best life insurance companies and policies available based on your unique medical history.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system. It primarily affects movement, often starting with a tremor in one hand and slowly advancing to stiffness, slowness, and difficulty walking. It’s caused by the gradual loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain.
How Parkinson’s Disease Affects Life Insurance Underwriting
Life insurance companies evaluate Parkinson’s disease applicants based on the age of onset, severity, disease progression, current functionality, and the 5 stages of the disease.
Here’s how that breaks down:
- Stage 1 & 2 – Mild – With only tremors and no gait disturbance may qualify at Table 2–4.
- Stage 2 & 3 – Moderate – The use of canes or walkers may result in ratings as shown in Table 4–6.
- Stage 4 & 5 – Severe – Advanced Parkinson’s, including cognitive decline or restricted mobility, is a decline, except for guaranteed issue policies.
The five stages were developed in 1967 according to the Parkinson’s Foundation, and three additional stages (Preclinical, Prodromal, Clinical) related to early Parkinson’s have recently been recognized.
Underwriting Questions for Parkinson’s Disease
If you apply for life insurance with Parkinson’s, expect to be asked:
- When were you diagnosed?
- What stage is your Parkinson’s (I to V)?
- Have you experienced any progression?
- Are you on medications? If so, which ones and how effective are they?
- Have you had any falls, infections, or trouble swallowing?
- Do you have dementia, depression, or memory issues?
- Do you use a cane, walker, or need help with daily activities?
- Are there any other health conditions? (cancer, heart, gastrointestinal, diabetes)
These questions help determine what types of policies are available to you.
Policy Options and Sample Pricing
Most applicants with Parkinson’s disease will require fully underwritten life insurance, which typically involves a medical exam and access to their medical records.
Policies that offer living benefits for chronic and critical illness benefits will not be available.
Sample Rates: Male, Age 60 – 20-year term life insurance Monthly Rates
| Coverage | Mild Stage 1-2 | Moderate Stage 2-3 | Severe Stage 4-5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100,000 | $117 – $153 | $219 – $312 | Decline |
| $250,000 | $237 – $313 | $490 – $705 | Decline |
| $500,000 | $461 – $612 | $973 – $1403 | Decline |
| $1,000,000 | $894 – $1190 | $1838 – $2655 | Decline |
Other neurological conditions we have coverage for include stroke history, epilepsy, and MS.
Best Life Insurance Companies for Parkinson’s Disease
Here are several carriers known for being more favorable to Parkinson’s applicants:
Banner Life
- Accepts mild to moderate cases (Tables 3–5) if functionality is retained
- Prices table-rated policies off Standard Plus, not Standard – big savings
- Deep experience in underwriting neurodegenerative diseases
Prudential
- Often considers early-stage Parkinson’s at Table B–C
- Accepts older applicants and more complex medical profiles
- Helpful for clients with multiple medications or other conditions
Corebridge Financial
- Uses a detailed severity index (mild, moderate, marked, severe)
- May offer coverage at Table 2–4 for mild/moderate symptoms
Pacific Life
- Often competitive for older applicants (age 65+)
- Will underwrite on a case-by-case basis with neurologist records
- Slower progression with good response to meds may qualify
Lincoln Financial
- Conservative but may offer term or GUL to stable, well-managed cases
- Prefers ages 60+ with mild symptoms and no dementia or falls
FAQ – Life Insurance and Parkinson’s Disease
Yes, especially if you’re in Stage I–III with good function. Carriers such as Banner, Corebridge, and Prudential may offer terms ranging from 10 to 40 years.
You don’t need to wait. Mild or stable Parkinson’s can be insurable right away. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that progression may reduce your chances of approval.
If traditional coverage isn’t available, consider accidental death insurance or reassess after 12–24 months if your condition stabilizes.
No. Some automatically decline, while others will review complete records and make case-by-case decisions. That’s why working with a high-risk expert matters.
Final Thoughts
Parkinson’s disease adds complexity to life insurance, but coverage is still possible, even after a diagnosis.
The key is applying through experienced brokers who understand which companies are most receptive and when to use them.
If you’ve been declined or table-rated elsewhere, don’t give up. With the right strategy, many people with Parkinson’s can still secure the protection they need.
Request your quote today.
Recent Articles:
- How to Beat Life Insurance Table Ratings and Save Big on Coverage
- Flat Extras – How to Beat This Costly Life Insurance Expense
- Denied Life Insurance? Here’s What to Do Next
- Heart Conditions and Life Insurance: Your Guide to Getting Covered
- Life Insurance for Cancer Patients & Survivors: How to Get Affordable Coverage
