SBLI is the best insurer overall for 70-year-olds, balancing cost and service quality. While SBLI is our top pick in this age category, it may not be the best choice for everyone. Here are the best life insurance companies by category.
Best Life Insurance for Seniors Over 70
The best life insurance companies for seniors over 70 are SBLI, Assurity and AAA. Your best choice depends on your specific needs.
Find out if you're overpaying for life insurance below.

Updated: August 14, 2025
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Key Takeaways
SBLI is the top choice for 70-year-olds seeking life insurance, with an overall MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100. SBLI offers competitive rates, with sample quotes showing approximately $250 monthly for a $250,000 10-year term policy for qualifying applicants.
Assurity gets a MoneyGeek score of 96 as the best life insurance company for 70-year-old smokers. The company's average monthly rate is $790.
AAA leads in no-medical-exam life insurance for 70-year-olds, with a MoneyGeek score of 85. Its no-exam 10-year term policy costs an average of $296 monthly for $250,000 in coverage.
What Is the Best Life Insurance for a 70-Year-Old?
SBLI
| Best Overall
| 94
| $250
| $2,995
|
Assurity
| Best for Smokers | 96
| $790
| $9,491
|
AAA
| Best No-Medical-Exam | 85
| $296
| $3,555
|
*Rates shown are estimates based on sample profiles. Your actual rates may vary based on health, location, and underwriting. All life insurance applications are subject to approval.
Overall Best Life Insurance for Seniors Over 70: SBLI

SBLI earns the top spot for 70-year-olds seeking affordable, high-quality life insurance. Founded in 1907, the company combines more than a century of experience with strong financial stability and competitive affordability.
SBLI offers term life insurance coverage up to $10 million for applicants aged 18 to 75. A 10-year term life policy for a 70-year-old male nonsmoker averages $250 monthly or $2,995 annually for $250,000 in coverage.
Policyholders can enhance their coverage with several rider options, including terminal illness protection, child term insurance and accidental death benefits. With top marks in affordability and a near-perfect customer experience score, SBLI offers excellent value to seniors prioritizing low premiums and reliable service.
- Offers the most affordable rate at $250 per month
- High customer satisfaction
- A+ ratings from both AM Best and BBB
- Wide selection of riders available
- Term life coverage eligibility ends at age 75
- Coverage options slightly narrower than some competitors
Best Life Insurance for 70-Year-Olds Who Smoke: Assurity

Assurity ranks as the best life insurance provider for 70-year-old smokers, combining competitive rates with strong coverage flexibility and customer satisfaction. The company offers term life coverage up to $10 million, with a 10-year policy for a 70-year-old male smoker, averaging $790 per month or $9,491 annually for $250,000 in coverage.
Assurity receives high marks across MoneyGeek's scoring system. The company supports smokers with multiple term lengths and a suite of riders, including terminal illness, disability income, and critical illness coverage. These options provide adaptable financial protection for smokers with higher risk profiles.
- High affordability score for smokers
- Extensive rider availability, including critical illness and disability income
- Flexible term lengths and coverage amounts
- AM Best rating of A- is lower than some competitors
- Return of Premium rider only for 20- and 30-year terms
- 20- and 30-year terms aren't available to seniors over 70
Best Life Insurance for Seniors Over 70 No Medical Exam: AAA

AAA offers the best no-medical-exam life insurance for 70-year-olds, with strong affordability, broad coverage options and accessible underwriting. A 10-year term life policy for a 70-year-old male nonsmoker with $250,000 in coverage averages $296 per month or $3,555 annually. AAA allows up to $500,000 in no-exam coverage and supports applicants up to age 75.
AAA's customer experience rating is moderate, and its NAIC complaint index (2.4) is higher than its competitors. Still, the company excels in cost and policy flexibility, with the highest ratings for affordability and coverage.
Riders such as return of premium, terminal illness access and travel accident protection provide added value. Seniors seeking convenience and quick approval may find AAA's no-exam life insurance an efficient option.
- No-medical-exam coverage available up to $500,000
- Highest affordability and coverage ratings
- A+ BBB rating and wide rider selection
- Offers guaranteed issue whole life policies for ages 45 to 85
- Higher-than-average customer complaint index
- Lower customer experience rating compared to peers
Life Insurance for Seniors Over 70: Buying Guide
Shopping for life insurance in your 70s brings unique challenges and concerns. Coverage is available, and with the right approach, you can find affordable options that provide meaningful financial protection for your loved ones. This buying guide helps you find the best rates.
How to Find the Best Life Insurance for 70-Year-Olds
When shopping for life insurance quotes for 70-year-olds, you can save on your premiums by taking these actions:
- 1
Purchase insurance from financially sound insurers
Several companies offer life insurance for seniors over age 70. Choosing a company with high financial stability ratings can save you money. Stable companies are more likely to process your claim faster and provide the death benefit to your beneficiary sooner.
How to verify: Check AM Best ratings (A- or higher recommended) and confirm the company is licensed in your state through your state insurance department.
- 2
Compare prices and product offerings
Shopping around helps you understand how much you'll likely pay in premiums. You can determine the best coverage option for your needs and budget by comparing prices.
Senior-specific tip: Get quotes for different policy types, such as traditional term/whole life if you're healthy, simplified issue if you have minor health concerns, and guaranteed issue if you have serious health conditions.
- 3
Look for premium discounts
Most insurers base premiums on unit costs per thousand dollars of coverage, called banded rates. The more coverage you buy, the less you pay per unit. For example, you might pay less for $100,000 in life insurance than $75,000.
Additional discounts for seniors: Some insurers offer discounts for automatic premium payments, annual payment instead of monthly, or bundling with other insurance products.
- 4
For term policies, get renewal guarantees and conversion opportunities
A renewal guarantee lets you renew once the current term expires. However, this usually means your rate increases each year after the term expires. A policy that also allows conversion gives you more options while the policy is still active and when it expires.
Senior consideration: Most term policies for seniors over 70 are limited to 10-15-year terms, making conversion options particularly valuable.
- 5
Consider lifestyle changes
Certain activities that pose a risk to your health may cause your life insurance rates to increase. For instance, maintaining a healthy weight and quitting smoking can help you save on premiums.
Timeline for changes: Most insurers require 12 months of being smoke-free before considering you a non-smoker. Weight management and blood pressure control can also improve your risk classification.
LIFE INSURANCE FOR PEOPLE OVER 70: DOCUMENTATION YOU'LL NEED
Gather these documents before applying:
- Personal identification: Driver's license, Social Security card
- Financial records: Tax returns, Social Security statements, pension documentation
- Medical information: Current medication list, recent medical procedures, doctor contact information
- Beneficiary details: Full names, addresses, and Social Security numbers
How Much Is Life Insurance for a 70-Year-Old?
Premiums for life insurance policies for seniors aged 70 vary significantly based on coverage amount, term length, applicant health and insurance company. This table shows life insurance quotes for 70-year-olds from leading insurance providers.
$100,000 | $221 | $2,654 |
$150,000 | $300 | $3,607 |
$200,000 | $374 | $4,492 |
$250,000 | $364 | $4,367 |
$300,000 | $429 | $5,148 |
$350,000 | $461 | $5,533 |
$400,000 | $546 | $6,558 |
$450,000 | $573 | $6,882 |
$500,000 | $647 | $7,764 |
$550,000 | $546 | $6,563 |
$600,000 | $780 | $9,366 |
$650,000 | $637 | $7,657 |
$700,000 | $926 | $11,117 |
$750,000 | $917 | $11,003 |
$800,000 | $1,016 | $12,193 |
$850,000 | $819 | $9,845 |
$900,000 | $1,132 | $13,586 |
$950,000 | $910 | $10,938 |
$1,000,000 | $1,191 | $14,290 |
$1,250,000 | $1,466 | $17,602 |
$1,500,000 | $1,780 | $21,357 |
$2,000,000 | $2,319 | $27,833 |
$2,500,000 | $3,491 | $41,894 |
$3,000,000 | $3,479 | $41,751 |
*Life insurance rates for seniors vary based on health, location and insurer underwriting guidelines. The rates shown represent sample quotes and shouldn't be considered guaranteed pricing.
Life Insurance Rates for Seniors Over 70 Who Smoke
Smoking is a significant factor that insurance companies consider when determining policy rates due to the associated health risks. Smokers pay higher premiums than nonsmokers. The table below shows the average rates for 70-year-olds who smoke.
$100,000 | $700 | $8,404 |
$150,000 | $967 | $11,613 |
$200,000 | $1,198 | $14,382 |
$250,000 | $1,182 | $14,181 |
$300,000 | $1,364 | $16,375 |
$350,000 | $1,856 | $22,287 |
$400,000 | $1,735 | $20,829 |
$450,000 | $2,302 | $27,643 |
$500,000 | $2,049 | $24,587 |
$550,000 | $1,701 | $20,435 |
$600,000 | $2,472 | $29,665 |
$650,000 | $1,984 | $23,841 |
$700,000 | $3,068 | $36,852 |
$750,000 | $2,959 | $35,515 |
$800,000 | $3,215 | $38,593 |
$850,000 | $2,551 | $30,652 |
$900,000 | $3,581 | $42,977 |
$950,000 | $2,835 | $34,058 |
$1,000,000 | $3,774 | $45,301 |
$1,250,000 | $6,876 | $82,560 |
$1,500,000 | $5,646 | $67,762 |
$2,000,000 | $7,191 | $86,303 |
$2,500,000 | $9,892 | $118,709 |
$3,000,000 | $10,789 | $129,490 |
*Life insurance rates for seniors vary based on health, location and insurer underwriting guidelines. The rates shown represent sample quotes and shouldn't be considered guaranteed pricing.
MONEYGEEK EXPERT TIP
When purchasing life insurance at 70, you might need to complete a medical exam to be approved. Some insurers offer policies without an exam, but the rate could be higher, as you'd be labeled high-risk, even if you're not.
Compare Life Insurance Quotes for Seniors Over 70
Life insurance costs vary widely among insurance providers. Compare personalized quotes from multiple carriers to get the best rates for your needs. The life insurance quote tool below provides accurate estimates based on your coverage needs.
Life Insurance Quotes for 70-Year-Olds
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How Much Life Insurance Do You Need at 70?
Life insurance needs assessment for seniors requires a different approach than for younger buyers. Your coverage amount should match your specific financial obligations and goals rather than following traditional income-replacement formulas that don't apply to most 70-year-olds.
Seniors don't need complex formulas to calculate life insurance needs. At 70, your coverage should focus on specific expenses rather than income replacement. Calculate what you need by adding four categories: final expenses, outstanding debts your family would inherit, income replacement for a surviving spouse, and inheritance goals.
The right coverage amount depends on your budget as much as your needs.
Use the coverage calculator below to get an estimated amount, then review the rate tables to find affordable options that match your needs.
How Much Life Insurance Do You Need?
Answer three simple questions to get your recommended coverage amount.
Should 70-Year-Olds Buy Life Insurance?
Many people in their 70s wonder whether life insurance still makes sense for their situation. Life insurance for seniors over 70 isn't universally necessary, but it can provide valuable financial protection in specific situations. Your decision should be based on your current debts, dependents and financial goals rather than age alone. Know when coverage makes sense to avoid paying for unnecessary protection.
When Coverage Makes Financial Sense
Seniors who still carry financial obligations or want to protect loved ones often benefit from life insurance at 70. Key situations where coverage proves worthwhile include:
- Outstanding mortgage or loan balances that would burden your spouse
- Medical debt or credit card obligations your family would inherit
- Funeral and burial costs, ranging from $8,000 to $15,000
- Supporting a spouse who depends on your Social Security or pension income
- Creating an inheritance when other assets are tied up or insufficient
Life insurance is especially valuable when your existing savings can't cover these costs.
When You Can Skip Coverage
Many 70-year-olds don't need new life insurance policies. You can likely avoid the expense if:
- Your mortgage and major debts are paid off
- You have sufficient savings to cover final expenses
- No one depends on your income for daily living costs
- You already own adequate life insurance coverage
- You'd rather invest premium money in other financial vehicles
If you're financially secure with independent children, premium money might generate better returns elsewhere.
LIFE INSURANCE OPTIONS FOR SENIORS WITH HEALTH ISSUES
No-medical-exam life insurance is available for seniors who can't qualify for traditional coverage due to health concerns.
- Simplified issue life insurance policies require health questions but skip medical exams. You answer questions about your medical history, current medications and recent treatments. These work best for seniors with stable, well-managed conditions.
- Guaranteed issue life insurance, or guaranteed acceptance life insurance, accepts all applicants within age limits regardless of health status. No health questions or medical information required.
Best Life Insurance in Your 70s: Bottom Line
MoneyGeek analyzed and ranked life insurance quotes and policy details to help you find the best life insurance companies for 70-year-olds. SBLI, AAA and Assurity are the best-rated providers for 70-year-olds. We also explored average costs from major companies and provided shopping tips for the best life insurance policy. Compare offers and quotes from multiple insurers to find the best deal.
Compare Life Insurance Rates
Ensure you are getting the best rate for your insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.
Life Insurance at 70: FAQ
Life insurance companies consider various factors when determining their rates. We answered frequently asked questions about life insurance options for 70-year-olds to help you compare rates.
Can you buy life insurance in your 70s?
You can buy life insurance in your 70s. Insurance companies set different age limits for eligibility to get various types of life insurance. You may buy term or permanent life insurance based on your needs. Depending on the policy and carrier, you may also have the option to convert temporary insurance to permanent insurance.
Is 70 a good age to buy a life insurance policy?
Life insurance at age 70 costs more than coverage for younger people. Not all 70-year-olds require extensive coverage, so a final expense or whole life policy may be the best choice. To secure the best rates, consider comparing quotes from different providers.
What is the best life insurance company for a 70-year-old?
The best life insurance company for a 70-year-old varies based on individual needs and circumstances. SBLI is top-rated overall based on MoneyGeek's analysis. AAA ranks first in no-medical-exam policies, while Assurity is the best for seniors over 70 who smoke.
How much does a life insurance policy cost for a 70-year-old?
Life insurance costs for 70-year-olds vary significantly based on insurer, coverage amount and health rating.
Can I get life insurance at 70 with pre-existing conditions?
Yes, you can get life insurance with pre-existing conditions through simplified issue or guaranteed issue policies. Simplified issue requires health questions but no medical exam, while guaranteed issue accepts everyone within age limits regardless of health status. Premiums will be higher than traditional policies, but coverage is available.
What health conditions make it difficult to get life insurance at 70?
Conditions like recent heart attacks, active cancer treatment, severe COPD or advanced neurological disorders can make traditional coverage difficult. However, guaranteed issue policies don't consider health conditions, though they typically offer lower coverage amounts and have waiting periods.
Do I need a medical exam for life insurance at 70?
Not necessarily. Many insurers offer no-medical-exam policies for seniors. Simplified issue policies require health questions but skip the exam, while guaranteed issue policies require no health information at all. Traditional policies with medical exams may offer better rates if you're in good health.
How long after a major health event can I apply for life insurance?
Most insurers require waiting periods after major health events. For heart attacks or strokes, you typically need to wait six to 12 months. For cancer, most insurers prefer two to five years after treatment completion. Guaranteed issue policies have no waiting periods based on health conditions.
What's the difference between guaranteed issue and simplified issue life insurance?
Simplified issue life insurance requires answering health questions but no medical exam, typically offering $5,000 to $150,000 in coverage with moderate premiums. Guaranteed issue life insurance requires no health questions, guarantees acceptance, but usually limits coverage to $2,000 to $25,000 with higher premiums and waiting periods before full benefits activate.
What is final expense life insurance?
Final expense insurance is a type of whole life insurance designed to cover end-of-life costs like funeral expenses, burial costs, and small debts. Coverage typically ranges from $5,000 to $25,000, making it affordable for seniors on fixed incomes. Most final expense policies are guaranteed issue or simplified issue.
Should I choose term or permanent life insurance at 70?
At 70, permanent life insurance (whole or universal life) is often preferred because it doesn't expire and builds cash value. Term life insurance for seniors is typically limited to 10- to 15-year terms and may be difficult to renew. Consider permanent coverage if you want lifelong protection or guaranteed issue if health is a concern.
What happens when my term life insurance expires at 70?
When term life insurance expires, your coverage ends unless you have renewal or conversion options. Some policies allow annual renewal with increasing premiums, while others offer conversion to permanent coverage. If neither option is available and you still need coverage, you'll need to apply for a new policy.
Can I convert my existing term life insurance to permanent coverage?
Many term life policies include conversion options that allow you to switch to permanent coverage without a medical exam. You typically must convert before age 65 to 70 (varies by insurer) and within specific time windows. The conversion uses your original health rating, which can be valuable if your health has declined.
Does life insurance count as part of my estate for tax purposes?
Life insurance death benefits are generally income tax-free to beneficiaries, but may be included in your taxable estate if you own the policy. For seniors with large estates, consider transferring ownership to an irrevocable life insurance trust to remove it from your taxable estate, though this requires advance planning.
Best Life Insurance Companies for Seniors Over 70: Our Ratings Methodology
Finding affordable life insurance after 70 feels challenging when many insurers either decline coverage or quote prices that seem out of reach. We designed our research to focus on companies that welcome senior applicants and offer realistic rates for this age group.
We gathered 1,488 life insurance quotes from insurers with proven track records of insuring seniors, then analyzed each company across five key areas for seniors shopping for coverage.
How We Scored Each Company
Each insurer earned up to five points in five categories, creating an overall MoneyGeek score out of 100:
- Affordability (30%): The biggest factor since premiums increase significantly with age
- Financial Stability (25%): Your beneficiaries need assurance the company will pay claims
- Buying Process (20%): Online tools and payment options that work for seniors
- Customer Satisfaction (15%): How well companies handle claims and service issues
- Product Diversity (10%): Range of coverage options available to older applicants
Our Analysis Process
- Cost Research: We collected online quotes from major insurers using consistent profiles to ensure fair price comparisons.
- Financial Strength: We reviewed AM Best ratings and years in business to assess each company's ability to pay future claims.
- Customer Experience: We analyzed complaint data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners to understand how companies treat policyholders.
- Product Access: We evaluated which insurers offer the most coverage options and buying tools specifically helpful for seniors.
Sample Customer Profile
All quotes use this standard 70-year-old profile unless noted otherwise:
- Age: 70 years old
- Gender: Male
- Physical Stats: 5'9" tall, 160 pounds
- Health: Average rating
- Tobacco Use: Non-smoker
We adjusted age, gender, health ratings, and locations to capture rate variations across different senior profiles. We also collected quotes for various term lengths and coverage amounts to identify the best options for different financial situations.
Why This Approach Works
Our methodology reflects real-world shopping for seniors. We focused on companies that actively write policies for applicants over 70, used health and demographic factors typical for this age group, and weighted affordability heavily since fixed incomes make cost a primary concern.
The result: rankings that help 70-year-olds find coverage they can actually qualify for and afford.
Best Life Insurance for 70-Year-Old: Related Pages
About Mark Fitzpatrick

Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.