Smokers vs Non-Smokers: Premium Difference for 1 Crore Term Insurance

A ₹1 Crore Term Insurance plan is one of the most affordable ways to secure your family’s future. But did you know the cost of this coverage can vary depending on whether you’re a smoker or a non-smoker? Read on to know more about the 1 crore term insurance premium for smokers and how the premium differs between smokers and non-smokers in a 1 crore term plan.

A ₹1 Crore Term Insurance plan is one of the most affordable ways to secure your family’s future. But did you know the cost of this coverage can vary depending on whether you’re a smoker or...

A ₹1 Crore Term Insurance plan is one of the most affordable ways...

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Why are Premiums Higher For Smokers?

The 1 crore term insurance premium for smokers is usually higher than for non-smokers because insurers see tobacco users as higher risk.

Using tobacco is linked to serious health issues like cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses.
Smokers generally have a lower life expectancy compared to non-smokers.
Higher risk of hospitalisation and medical claims makes insurers charge more.
There is an increased likelihood of critical illnesses resulting in costlier coverage.
Insurers put smokers through stricter checks, called underwriting, which usually results in higher premiums.

Smoker vs Non-Smoker Term Insurance Premium Difference in India

When comparing smoker vs non-smoker term insurance premiums in India, the gap is quite noticeable. Insurers calculate this risk differently for each category, which directly reflects in the yearly premium.

Non-smoker term insurance premium rates in India are among the lowest, as this group generally has better health outcomes and longer life expectancy. A ₹1 crore term plan can often be secured at affordable rates.

Smoker term insurance premium rates in India are much higher, sometimes double the non-smoker rates, because tobacco use increases the risk of critical illnesses and early demise. The premium difference in 1 crore term plans for smokers vs non-smokers may range anywhere between 50% and 100%, depending on factors such as age, health conditions, and insurer policies.

For a fair term insurance cost comparison, it’s important to look beyond just the annual premium. Factors like medical test requirements, exclusions, and future renewal terms also vary between smokers and non-smokers. Let’s look at a quick comparison:

Category	Non-smokers	Smokers

Medical tests required	Basic health check-up	More detailed, tobacco-related tests
Claim approval risk	Lower	Higher if smoking is not disclosed
Long-term affordability	More affordable	Costlier over the years

Smoker Declaration & Underwriting

As per the IRDAI smoker declaration in term insurance, you must disclose your smoking or tobacco use honestly when applying for term insurance. Hiding this information can lead to your claim getting rejected later. Insurers also follow strict underwriting guidelines for smokers, which may include medical tests like chest X-rays, blood tests, etc., lifestyle assessments, and higher premiums.

How Age Affects 1 Crore Term Insurance Premiums for Smokers vs Non-Smokers

Age amplifies the premium gap between smokers and non-smokers. For younger applicants in their 20s, the difference may be moderate, but by the time you cross 40, the smoker vs non-smoker premium difference in India can become much sharper. This is because health risks linked to tobacco use compound with age, making it more expensive for smokers to secure ₹1 Crore coverage later in life.

Tips for Smokers to Reduce Premiums

Although smokers face higher premiums, there are steps that can help reduce costs:

Quit smoking or tobacco use for a sustained period before applying, as some insurers may reclassify you as a non-smoker after medical verification.
Consider going for regular health check-ups to demonstrate better health outcomes.
Choose limited pay options to lock in premiums earlier.
Compare policies across insurers to find affordable term insurance for smokers.

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Policy Term Flexibility	Available
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Conclusion

The smoker vs non-smoker premium difference in India is undeniable. While non-smokers enjoy lower rates, smokers can still access comprehensive coverage by choosing the right insurer. Being honest and declaring your smoking status truthfully, understanding underwriting guidelines, and exploring flexible plans like ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan can help you find affordable term insurance for smokers in India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a way for smokers to get the same premium as non-smokers?

Not immediately. However, if a smoker quits and stays tobacco-free for a specific period, insurers may reclassify them as a non-smoker after medical verification. At that point, you may become eligible for lower premiums similar to non-smokers.

Why is the premium difference so high?

The premium is higher for smokers because smoking increases health risks and reduces life expectancy. In many cases, insurers may charge anywhere between 50% to 100% more to cover this additional risk

What medical tests do smokers need to take for term insurance?

Common tests include blood work, chest X-rays, and ECGs to check for smoking-related health risks.

Can you get 1 crore term insurance for heavy smokers?

Yes. Heavy smokers can get ₹1 crore term insurance, but premiums are much higher and medical tests are stricter. Some policies may also have exclusions for tobacco-related illnesses.

What if I don’t tell the insurer about my smoking habit?

Non-disclosure of smoking status can lead to claim rejection. As per IRDAI regulations, you must declare your tobacco use truthfully at the time of application.

If I quit smoking 10 years ago, would I still be considered a smoker?

No. If you have not used tobacco in any form for many years, insurers will classify you as a non-smoker. Still, you may need to undergo medical tests to confirm your current health status before premiums are finalised.

Is chewing tobacco and vaping treated the same as smoking?

Most insurers treat all forms of tobacco and nicotine use, such as smoking, chewing, or vaping, under the smoker category.

Can smokers still get term insurance coverage in India?

Yes. While premiums are higher, smokers can still get term insurance coverage.

Written by Neviya Laishram

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Reviewed by Vaibhav Kumar Kaushik

A senior editor with years of expertise, she fine-tunes content that connects, converts, and builds trust. She transforms heavy life insurance concepts into clear, aha-moment reads. Writing is her passion, and thinking ahead is second nature. When not wrangling words, she’s crushing game levels because every challenge is a puzzle waiting to be solved.