Hello Jeet,

If you look carefully, most insurers will ask you clearly how many years you have been smoking. You need to carefully check if there is an information icon or note next to the question.

For instance HDFC Life checks if you have smoked for the last 3 years, in this case the answer to the question in your brother's case will be YES.

In case of ICICI Prudential, the question is whether you have smoked in the last 12 months.

For all your shortlisted insurance companies, you need to check this question and respond accordingly.

How do Insurance companies find out whether you smoke or not?

Insurers conduct a nicotine test to find out if you are a smoker. Note, though they conduct this test, it does not dissolve you from your responsibility of making true and correct declarations - hence you must ensure you read the question carefully and answer it correctly.

Hope this helps :)

Cheers!

Dear Reader ,

The clause for smoker non smoker is the crucial one and matters insurance companies from risk prespective and reinsurance per se.

As a policyholder it is advisable to disclose being a smoker, because as a part of medical tests at the time of procuring the policy it is clearly evident whether someone is smoker or not leading to rejection of policy issuance or after issuance of policy company may reject the claim stating non disclosure of condition, but the caveat of section will remain intact that no Insurer shall repudiate a life insurance Policy on the ground of Fraud, if the Insured / beneficiary can prove that the misstatement was true to the best of his knowledge and there was no deliberate intention to suppress the fact or that such mis-statement of or suppression of material fact are within the knowledge.

It is advisable to declare positively if one is tobacco user, as cancellation of claim at the time of need on the ground of miss declaration / hiding of fact will definitely going to prove costly then saving a few buck at the time of taking policy. Secondly chances / probability of rejection of policy at medical stage is higher in case the fact of smoker arise during initial issuance period .

In your brother's case, he should declare that he was a smoker for 9 years and mention that he has quit with occasional lapses.

Hi Jeet,

It is important to provide an honest and accurate response. Here are two possible scenarios and how to address them:

Non-smoker:

1. If you are a non-smoker, simply indicate that you do not smoke. This means you have never used any form of tobacco or nicotine products, including cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, or nicotine replacement therapies. Being a non-smoker usually results in lower premiums since non-smokers generally have better health outcomes.

Smoker:

1. If you are a smoker, it is crucial to disclose this information truthfully to ensure transparency with the insurance provider. Smoking includes any use of tobacco or nicotine products, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, or nicotine replacement therapies. Failing to disclose smoking habits accurately can lead to consequences in the future, such as denied claims or the cancellation of the policy.

It's important to note that term life insurance rates for smokers are generally higher than those for non-smokers due to the increased health risks associated with smoking. However, quitting smoking and remaining smoke-free for a significant period may make you eligible for lower premiums in the future. Insurance companies may require proof of smoking cessation, such as a certain period of being smoke-free or passing a medical exam.

Remember, providing accurate and truthful information is essential when applying for life insurance. It ensures that you receive the appropriate coverage and avoids any issues in the future.

There are really good brands such as ICICI, Max Life and HDFC Life. Below are some features -

HDFC Life Term Insurance Features:

1. Coverage Options: HDFC Life offers a range of coverage options to suit individual needs, including term plans with lump sum payout, increasing income options, and return of premium plans.
2. Flexibility: Policyholders can choose the policy term and premium payment frequency that best fits their requirements.
3. Additional Riders: HDFC Life provides various optional riders, such as critical illness rider, accidental death benefit rider, waiver of premium rider, etc., allowing policyholders to enhance their coverage.
4. Tax Benefits: Premiums paid towards HDFC Life term insurance policies are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
5. Claim Settlement Ratio: HDFC Life has a high claim settlement ratio, indicating their commitment to honoring claims efficiently and promptly.

ICICI Pru Life Term Insurance Features:

1. Customizable Plans: ICICI Pru Life offers term insurance plans that can be tailored to meet specific requirements. Policyholders can choose from various coverage options, premium payment terms, and rider benefits.
2. Critical Illness Cover: ICICI Pru Life term plans often provide an optional critical illness rider, which offers coverage for major illnesses, helping policyholders manage medical expenses during a critical health event.
3. Terminal Illness Benefit: In some ICICI Pru Life term plans, a terminal illness benefit is available, providing a portion of the sum assured in advance if the policyholder is diagnosed with a terminal illness.
4. Claim Settlement Ratio: ICICI Pru Life has a strong track record of high claim settlement ratios, showcasing their commitment to settling claims effectively.
5. Online Policy Management: Policyholders can conveniently manage their ICICI Pru Life term insurance policies online, including premium payments, policy renewal, and accessing policy-related information.

It's important to note that specific features and offerings may vary based on the specific term insurance plans offered by HDFC Life and ICICI Pru Life. When considering purchasing a term insurance policy, it is recommended to carefully review the policy terms, features, and benefits to ensure they align with your needs and financial goals.