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How are life insurance rates determined?

If you’ve wondered why life insurance premiums are different from person to person, the answer often comes down to a process called underwriting. This is the process where insurers review certain risk factors to help determine the cost of coverage. This video explains how life insurance premiums are calculated and why factors like age, health, lifestyle, and policy choices can influence pricing.
July 22, 2026
1 min and 15 sec watch
A financial professional sits with a married couple and explains how life insurance rates are determined.
00:01:54 - 00:05:96
How do life insurance companies decide what your premium will be?

00:05:96 – 00:08:97
It starts with a process called underwriting.

00:09:22 - 00:14:51
Underwriting helps insurers review risk factors before approving coverage.

00:14:56 - 00:19:67
These factors help explain why premiums can vary from person to person.

00:19:67 - 00:21:31
Age is one factor.

00:21:31 - 00:30:07
For example, Helen is 45 and may pay less than her 75 year old father because younger applicants often have lower risk.

00:30:82 - 00:33:32
Gender also plays a role.

00:33:32 - 00:39:25
On average, women tend to live longer than men, which can sometimes mean lower premiums.

00:39:25 - 00:43:84
Smoking habits matter, too, because smoking is linked to serious health issues.

00:43:84 - 00:47:38
Smokers often pay higher premiums than nonsmokers.

00:47:38 - 00:50:80
Health and family medical history are also considered.

00:50:80 - 00:53:68
Healthy habits may help lower costs.

00:53:68 - 00:55:31
Lifestyle matters too.

00:55:31 - 00:59:48
Jobs or hobbies with more risk can lead to higher rates.

00:59:52 - 01:03:06
Your policy type and coverage amount can also affect what you pay.

01:04:06 - 01:08:99
Applying early and keeping healthy habits may help make coverage more affordable.

01:09:19 - 01:12:11
Explore and get answers at www.trustage.com.

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