Does Smoking Affect Life Insurance Rates? 
Yes , smoking or tobacco use is probably one of the main increases in life insurance premiums . Most life insurance companies will increase premiums over 200 % to 300 % over a non-tobacco applicant with exact health status . Tobacco is viewed as a much higher risk , as we know it will shorten a human 's life by several years . Be aware that using nicotine patches or gum is rated the same as tobacco use . There are a few carriers that will consider non-tobacco rates for an occasional cigar or pipe smoker . Consult an experienced life insurance broker for help with those carriers . Most carriers are now rating tobacco rates for marijuana and vapor cigs as well . Again consult with a professional broker to find the best carrier for your unique situation . 