Life Insurance for People Over 80: What You Need to Know

Life  Insurance For People Over 80

If you’re over 80 and looking for life insurance, let’s get real—your options are limited, but far from impossible. Despite what those TV ads might say, not all policies are equal. And many of the most advertised ones? Loaded with fine print, waiting periods, and overpriced premiums.

At Maple Valley Insurance Group, we specialize in helping people in their 80s (and beyond) find affordable, no-nonsense life insurance—without the gimmicks, delays, or frustration.

Whether you’re 80, 85, or pushing 89, we’ll help you understand exactly what’s available—and how to get approved.


Why Life Insurance Over 80 Still Matters

Life insurance at this age is less about income replacement and more about protection. Most folks in their 80s buy policies for:

  • Final expenses (funeral, cremation, medical bills)
  • Leaving something behind for children or grandchildren
  • Paying off minor debts or medical balances
  • Avoiding financial burden on family members

You’re not looking to insure a mortgage or raise kids—you want simple, reliable coverage that pays out when it’s needed most.


Can You Get Life Insurance After 80?

Yes. But it depends on your health, age, and the type of policy you apply for. Here’s the honest truth:

  • Most companies stop offering new policies at age 85.
  • A few go to age 89, but they’re limited and expensive.
  • Term life insurance is usually off the table after age 80.
  • The most realistic option is whole life insurance—specifically “final expense” or “burial insurance.”

The 2 Main Types of Policies Available at Age 80+

1. Simplified Issue Whole Life

This is your best-case scenario. No medical exam, just some health questions.

✅ Instant coverage (no waiting period)
✅ Fixed premiums for life
✅ Level death benefit (never decreases)
✅ Available to people up to age 85
✅ Best value for people in average to fair health

We work with companies that offer these policies well into your 80s—even with conditions like COPD, diabetes, pacemakers, and more.


2. Guaranteed Acceptance Life Insurance

This is the “last resort” option—and often the one pushed on TV.

✅ No health questions
❌ 2-year waiting period before full benefits
❌ Higher monthly premiums
✅ Usually available up to age 85–89

This might be the only route if you have serious health conditions (like Alzheimer’s, recent cancer, or are on dialysis). We’ll only recommend this if you truly have no other option.


What Does Life Insurance Over 80 Cost?

Here’s what you can expect for $10,000 of whole life coverage:

AgeMale (Non-Smoker)Female (Non-Smoker)
80$115 – $145/month$85 – $110/month
85$145 – $180/month$110 – $135/month

💡 Pro tip: Rates can vary by as much as 40% between carriers. That’s where we come in.


How We Help Seniors 80+

We’re independent agents—licensed in multiple states—and we work with the top-rated final expense carriers in the country, including:

  • Mutual of Omaha
  • Aetna (CVS Health)
  • Foresters Financial
  • Aflac
  • SBLI (Savings Bank Life Insurance)
  • Royal Neighbors of America
  • And more…

We shop the market for you, based on your exact health and age.

No sales pressure. No call center scripts. Just honest guidance and friendly conversation.


What If I’ve Been Declined Before?

It happens. But don’t assume you’re out of options.

We’ve helped a lot of seniors get covered even after:

  • Denials due to COPD, heart disease, diabetic complications and more
  • Getting turned down by AARP/New York Life or Globe Life
  • Hospitalizations or major diagnoses

Let us take a second look—you may still qualify for a no-waiting-period policy.


Get Help Today — Before Age Limits Kick In

After age 85, your options shrink dramatically. Some carriers stop at 80, others at 85. The sooner you act, the more choices you’ll have and the lower your price and risk to your family.

📞 Call (269) 244‑3420 now to speak directly with a professional agent who understands the senior market.
Or use the quote tool on this page to instantly see what you may qualify for.

You’ve got questions—we’ve got answers (and real solutions).


Frequently Asked Questions

Can an 85-year-old get life insurance?
Yes, but only from select companies. Most will limit coverage to final expense whole life with limited face amounts ($5,000–$25,000). Rates will be higher, but coverage is available if you act fast.

Is a medical exam required at age 80+?
No. Every policy we offer is no-exam. Some require simple health questions (simplified issue), and others have no health questions at all (guaranteed acceptance).

How much coverage can someone over 80 get?
Most policies offer between $5,000 to $25,000, with a few going higher depending on age and health. The most common amount is around $10,000 to $15,000 to cover funeral costs.

Is guaranteed acceptance life insurance worth it?
Only if it’s your only option. These plans have 2-year waiting periods and higher costs. We recommend simplified issue policies instead, when possible.

Can I buy life insurance for my elderly parent over 80?
Yes—if they consent and are involved in the process. Adult children often buy coverage for their parents to protect the family from funeral costs.

Michael Flajole

I am a veteran of the life and health insurance profession and passionate about helping people secure the financial future of their families. I love my family including 2 children and have long time interest in fishing and physical fitness.

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