Can I Still Buy Life Insurance If I’ve Had Covid-19?

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Did you test positive for the Covid-19 virus and still want a life insurance policy to protect your loved ones? Here’s what you need to know beforehand.

Man signing life insurance contract

When once-in-a-lifetime events like the Covid-19 pandemic occur, it’s only natural for people to consider their families and loved ones with an eye towards the future. The peace of mind offered by life insurance – a spouse that won’t struggle to pay the bills, children’s educational needs taken care of, medical bills paid without impacting an estate, and more – is a natural balm for the worry of Covid fears.

Is opening a new life insurance policy a viable option after contracting Covid-19? Thankfully, the answer is yes, although honesty is an extremely important factor in obtaining appropriate coverage.

Much as life insurance payouts have always operated with certain protective clauses, such as the inability to profit from criminal activities, both insurer and insured need to enter into a policy well informed about where they stand.

Not all life insurance companies will offer coverage for new policyholders that have been previously infected with the Covid-19 virus, but those that do will usually state it clearly, or will answer readily if asked. When in doubt, ask your insurance agent directly.

High-Risk People, Places, and Jobs

While an applicant is only required to offer the information requested of them, it’s in your best interests to ask questions and to carefully read any policy you’re considering after a Covid diagnosis.

Exposure risk will be a determining factor in your quote, so if you’ve recently traveled to or reside in a high-risk / high-spread area, or work in a position that frequently risks exposure, be aware these facts may impact your available coverage.

Do not omit requested information or attempt to conceal risk factors; this will only negatively impact results if your policy is needed to protect your loved ones. Your insurance agent is ready and able to honestly answer any questions you may have about the insurance process or your desired policy, don’t be afraid to ask. Remember, they are subject matter experts and whatever your question may be, chances are they’ve already seen the answer in action.

If you are actively infected with Covid-19 and either hospitalized or an inpatient at a medical facility, ask your life insurance agent about their teleconferencing capabilities to keep both yourself and your agent safe. If policy paperwork or forms are necessary to start your policy, keep in mind that most hospitals have a notary public on staff for any official paperwork that may be required.

If you’ve taken steps to reduce your potential of a Covid-19 infection, such as getting a vaccine or a follow-up “booster shot” of the vaccine, be sure to mention that to your life insurance agent. This proactive step may be beneficial to your quote.

Getting a Covid Life Insurance Policy? Let Someone Know.

Covid aftereffects can appear extremely quickly, particularly in the case of the aggressive Delta variant, which can re-infect those that have already had the basic virus, even when immunized.

There may not always be time for an extended outside-the-hospital conversation once a positive diagnosis or relapse of symptoms occurs. Additionally, restricted visitation policies in medical facilities make these discussions nearly impossible after admission.

If you plan to obtain a life insurance policy after you’ve been diagnosed with Covid-19, be sure to make it a well-known fact to all of your beneficiaries, and give copies of policy paperwork to a friend, family member, or lawyer for safekeeping.

At a time when things can feel incredibly chaotic and difficult, having this important information accessible will help support and protect your wishes for your family and loved ones.

Fire Safety and Other Potential Holiday Hazards

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Winter greens and flickering lights are hallmarks of the holiday season; however, they also present fire risks that can turn a festive time into a devastating one. Read on to learn how to keep your family safe.

Holiday candles

When the temperatures dip and cheerful strings of lights start appearing on porches, the holidays have arrived. While this is a time of celebration and gathering with friends and family, it’s also an important time to check over necessary safety precautions – doubly so, if you plan on hosting guests during this special time of year. While you’re decking the halls and toasting with hot cocoa, why not give yourself the gift of reassurance, too?

Keep Your Live Christmas Tree Safe

The smell of a live Christmas tree in the home is a time-honored tradition; however, while beautiful, live trees pose additional fire hazards around the holidays.

According to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), between 2014-2018, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. These fires caused an average of two deaths, 14 injuries, and $10 million in direct property damage annually.

Christmas Tree Safety Tips

  • Always choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched
  • Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk
  • Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat sources
  • Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit
  • Add water to your tree stand daily

Upgrade Your Christmas Lights

Incandescent “old” style Christmas lights can look warm and cheerful, but the older they are, the more likely the wires aren’t in great shape. While some heirloom ornaments are a must for traditional tree-trimming, consider swapping out old strings of lights for LED-style lighting, which doesn’t put off heat or demand the same power levels incandescent bulbs do.

Better yet, opt for a pre-lit LED tree, which makes decorating easy with no knots of wires to untangle.

Deck the Hearth with Battery Operated Candles

Some centerpieces and Instagram-ready holiday tableaus just wouldn’t be the same without candles – but that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to break out a lighter. Battery-operated tealights and pillar candles provide a safe, easy alternative to beautiful illumination, and are safe to use around kids and pets, as well as in botanical centerpieces.

If you plan on using candles often, consider rechargeable versions, which offer virtually unlimited candle-like light without the hassle of changing batteries, or the danger of open flames.

Simmer for Dinner: Keep a Timer Handy

It happens to even the most experienced holiday hosts – you start a side dish in a pot or pan, get distracted while chatting with dinner guests, and suddenly the smoke alarm is drowning out that ambient Christmas carol music station.

Set a timer on your smartphone, via your smart speaker, or use an old-fashioned bell timer to make sure you don’t need to order last-minute pizza to save the day – or your kitchen. Even the best cooks can forget a pan or two when things get hectic.

Plan and Decorate Responsibly Outdoors

Friendly rivalries abound when it comes to out-doing neighbors with holiday decorations, but don’t let competition outweigh good sense. Trees and bushes are drier and more prone to being flammable on cold winter days, so avoid placing old-fashioned incandescent lights on top of dead brush and leaves whenever possible.
Place lights on a timer to avoid overtaxing your electricity usage, and always ensure that any extension cords or “splitters” are rated for outdoor use and covered to avoid potentially dangerous sparks.

Check Over Your Home’s Fire Safety Equipment

If you have a fire extinguisher in your house, such as in a kitchen cabinet, make a habit of checking it at the end of the year. If it needs replacement or recharging, be sure to do so before your home fills with guests; this will keep your loved ones safe in the event of an emergency.

While many homeowners use daylight savings time to check their smoke detector batteries, the holidays are a good time to check those as well. Better yet, upgrade to a combination smoke detector / carbon monoxide detector for even more peace of mind.

Practicing good fire safety and enjoying the holidays without worrying doesn’t have to be mutually exclusive traditions. No matter which holidays you celebrate this winter, the welcome warmth of your home and the safety of your friends and family is a gift that truly keeps on giving.

Preparing Your Home For Winter

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Preparing Your Home For Winter in Seattle, WAIf you’re a homeowner who lives in a colder climate, then you understand the importance of preparing for the winter. There are so many factors that can occur when the colder weather sets in and it’s important that you’re ready for various scenarios. Let’s go over some of the things that you can do to protect your home.

Have Homeowners Insurance

Purchasing insurance is one of the best ways to protect your house. Making sure that you have the right policy is important so that it takes into account any seasonal concerns you may have.

Clear Your Gutters

Especially if your winters tend to be filled with lots of rain, it’s important that your gutters are clear. Water buildup can lead to roof leakage or pipes breaking, so it’s essential that any rain has a clear path away from your house.

Clean Your Chimney

Who doesn’t love a cozy fire after a long day of playing in the snow? If you’re planning on using your fireplace this season, it’s important that regular maintenance has been kept up on it. Not cleaning out your chimney could be dangerous, so it’s important that you make sure this is checked off your to-do list.

Maintain Wood Exteriors

If you have a wood exterior on your home, then it’s important to make sure that it’s sealed from the elements. This will help you make sure that your heating bill is as low as possible, as well as maintain the integrity of your house.

Are Your Windows Insulated?

If your heating bill is higher than you think it should be, consider the insulation around your windows. Many people don’t consider that windows are an excellent way for heat to escape and cold air to enter your home. Make sure that you’re protected from the harsh wind by insulating your windows.

Weatherstrips are a great way to make sure that your windows and doors are prepared for harsh winters. They’re relatively inexpensive and could end up saving you money in the future.

Take a Look at Your Yard

There are lots of things inside that need your attention, but don’t forget to consider possible dangers in your yard. Trimming any tree branches around your house is a great way to prepare for winter storms and make sure that your house is as safe as possible.

Check Your Heater

If winter means cold weather where you live, then make an appointment to have a professional come take a look at your heating system. While they’re there, have them peek at your cooling system as well and make sure that everything’s in check. It’s best to have your systems checked sooner rather than later so that you know you can use them as soon as you need to.

Have Any Questions?

We’re experts when it comes to protecting houses, so we know what it takes to prepare for the winter. Feel free to give us a call or send us a message and we can provide you with more specifics.