Your Guide to Getting Life Insurance in Canada with a Cancer Diagnosis
A cancer diagnosis changes your life—and often your financial plans along with it. Whether you’re in treatment, recently in remission, or have survived cancer for years, you might be wondering: Can I still get life insurance in Canada?
The short answer is yes—but your options may be different than they would be for someone in perfect health. That doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. With the right guidance, you can still find meaningful life insurance protection for yourself and your loved ones.
This guide breaks down what you need to know about applying for life insurance with a cancer diagnosis in Canada, what your options are, and how to navigate the process with confidence.
Why Life Insurance Still Matters After a Diagnosis
A life insurance policy provides peace of mind. It ensures that your loved ones won’t face financial hardship if you pass away. This can include paying off debts, covering funeral costs, and replacing income.
For people who’ve had cancer or are currently in treatment, life insurance can be even more important. It represents a sense of control over the future at a time when things may feel uncertain.
The good news? Life insurance is still possible—but the path may require a bit more patience and the right strategy.
Can You Get Life Insurance With Cancer?
Yes, but your eligibility and policy options depend on several factors, including:
The type of cancer
The stage and grade at diagnosis
How long it’s been since your treatment ended
Whether you're in remission
Your current overall health
Each insurer in Canada has its own underwriting guidelines. That means one company might decline your application, while another might accept you under specific conditions.
Types of Life Insurance Policies Available
Depending on your health status, there are three primary types of life insurance that may be available to you:
1. Traditional Life Insurance (Fully Underwritten)
This is the most comprehensive type of coverage and typically the most affordable if you qualify.
Requires a full medical history, sometimes a medical exam
Not typically available if you're currently undergoing cancer treatment
May be available after a remission period, which can vary from 1 to 10 years depending on the type of cancer
Example: A person in remission from thyroid cancer for 2 years with no recurrence may be eligible for term life insurance with standard or slightly rated premiums.
2. Simplified Issue Life Insurance
This option requires no medical exam, but you’ll still need to answer a health questionnaire. It’s easier to qualify for than traditional insurance and offers moderate coverage.
Available for some cancer survivors, especially those further out from treatment
Faster application process
Higher premiums than fully underwritten policies
Good to know: If you answer “yes” to certain health questions—like having had cancer in the last 2–3 years—you may be declined or rated.
3. Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
This is typically used as a last resort for those who have been declined for other coverage.
No medical questions, no exam
Guaranteed acceptance regardless of health status
Lower coverage amounts (e.g., $5,000–$25,000)
Higher premiums
Often includes a two-year waiting period before full death benefits are paid (except in case of accidental death)
Guaranteed issue can still offer peace of mind for final expenses, but it’s not meant to replace income or pay large debts.
What Insurance Companies Look For
If you’re applying with a history of cancer, insurance companies will want to know:
The exact type and stage of cancer
Date of diagnosis
Treatment details (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, etc.)
Date you completed treatment
Current health status and follow-up results
Any recurrences or metastasis
They may also ask for pathology reports or access to your medical records to assess risk.
Timing Matters: When Should You Apply?
The best time to apply is after you’ve completed treatment and have a period of remission behind you. The required length of remission varies:
Type of CancerApproximate Remission Period Before CoverageNon-melanoma skin cancerImmediate to 1 yearThyroid cancer1–2 yearsBreast cancer (early stage)2–5 yearsColon cancer3–5 yearsLeukemia5–10 yearsMetastatic cancersMay not be eligible for traditional coverage
Keep in mind: Every case is different. Some insurers specialize in high-risk or complex health histories.
How to Improve Your Chances of Approval
If you want the best shot at getting coverage—and a better premium—consider these tips:
1. Work with an Independent Insurance Broker
Not all companies treat cancer the same way. An independent broker can compare multiple insurers and knows which ones are more flexible for your specific situation.
2. Be Honest on Your Application
Don’t try to hide your health history. If an insurer discovers a material misstatement, your policy could be voided.
3. Wait for the Right Time
If you're currently undergoing treatment, you might wait until you're in remission. In the meantime, you can explore simplified or guaranteed issue options to hold you over.
4. Maintain Healthy Habits
Insurers look at your full health picture. Non-smokers in otherwise good health may get better rates—even with a cancer history.
What If You're Denied?
A denial doesn’t mean you’re out of options. You can:
Apply with a different insurer (some are more lenient)
Look into guaranteed issue life insurance
Consider critical illness insurance or final expense plans if life coverage is limited
Your broker can help you re-strategize.
Realistic Expectations
It’s important to go into the process with realistic expectations:
Your premiums will likely be higher than someone without a cancer history
Coverage may be limited at first
You may need to revisit your application after a longer remission period
But the key takeaway is: Coverage is possible—and it’s worth pursuing.
Final Thoughts
A cancer diagnosis may change your life, but it doesn't mean your financial future is out of your hands. Life insurance is still accessible, and there are pathways to protection for you and your family.
Whether you're currently in treatment, recently in remission, or many years cancer-free, options exist. By working with a knowledgeable broker and understanding what insurers look for, you can find a plan that fits your needs and provides the peace of mind you deserve.
