Smoker Status

Insurers give lower premium rates to buyers who do not smoke or use tobacco. Even though you may have smoked or used any tobacco product in the past, most carriers will consider you a non-smoker if you have not used any tobacco products for one year prior to applying for coverage.

Some insurance companies offer special rates for occasional cigar users and for those who only use smokeless tobacco. If you purchased a policy while a smoker, you can re-apply for a reduced non-smoker rate one year after you have quit using tobacco.

Be aware that nicotine can be detected in a variety of routine screening tests that are now commonly required by most insurance companies. Insurance company guidelines regarding tobacco use and rules regarding reconsideration after you have quit using tobacco vary from company to company and are subject to the company's current rules and procedures.

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