Life insurance for people with multiple sclerosis: Your options

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Life insurance protects your loved ones with a lump sum if something happens to you. If you have multiple sclerosis (MS), it can feel tricky to know what’s possible.

Many people with MS wonder: “Can I get MS life insurance? Will it be affordable?” The truth is, it can be a bit more complicated than usual, but with the right guidance, you can find a policy at a fair price that works for you.

In this guide, we’ll break down how MS and life insurance work, what insurers look for and how to get the right cover without overpaying.

What is life insurance for MS sufferers?

MS life insurance is simply a life cover policy for people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. It’s designed to give you peace of mind and help protect your loved ones financially if something happens to you.

In 2026, the MS Society estimates there are over 150,000 people with MS in the UK, with more than 7,000 new diagnoses every year. While MS and life insurance can seem complicated, it’s often more straightforward than you might think.

Nowadays, insurers are becoming more flexible and understanding when it comes to covering people with long-term health conditions like MS, making it easier to find a policy that works for you.

Can anyone get life insurance with MS?

Yes, in theory, anyone can get life insurance with MS. While some insurers may see MS as a higher-risk condition, many specialise in offering life cover for people living with it.

Your age, overall health and how MS affects your day-to-day life will all play a role in determining premiums and policy terms.

Does MS affect your life insurance application?

 When assessing your life insurance application, underwriters usually ask about things like:

• The type of MS you have (relapsing-remitting, primary progressive, or secondary progressive).
• When you were diagnosed.
• How often and how severe your symptoms or relapses are.
• The severity of your symptoms (for example, if you require a walking aid).
• Any medication or treatments you’re on.
• If you have any health problems, such as memory loss or difficulty swallowing.
• How MS affects your mobility and ability to work.

These details help insurers assess the level of risk and decide whether you qualify for standard rates or need adjusted premiums.

What types of life insurance can you get with MS?

There are several types of life insurance you could get with multiple sclerosis. Your options include:

1. Level term life insurance

Level term life insurance pays a fixed lump sum if you pass away during the policy term. It’s a straightforward way to make sure your family is financially secure with a set amount.

2. Decreasing life insurance

With decreasing life insurance cover, the payout goes down over time, usually in line with your mortgage balance. This can be a more affordable option since it only covers what’s left on your mortgage.

3. Whole of life insurance:

Guarantees a payout whenever you pass away, as long as your policy is active and premiums are paid. Premiums are higher, but it gives long-term peace of mind.

Please note, LV= no longer offers whole of life policies.

4. Over 50s life insurance:

Usually, no medical exams are required for over 50s life insurance. Acceptance is often guaranteed for UK residents aged 50–85, though the payout tends to be smaller.

If you’re looking for MS life insurance but don’t know which option suits your needs and budget, speak to a financial adviser.

Is MS classed as a pre-existing condition?

Yes, if you’ve already been diagnosed with MS when you apply for life insurance, it will be treated as a pre-existing medical condition.

It’s really important to be fully transparent during the application process so you get the right cover in place. Leaving out details, not disclosing your MS diagnosis or giving incorrect information (known as non-disclosure) could mean your policy won’t pay out when it’s needed most.

The good news is that having a pre-existing condition doesn’t mean you can’t get life insurance. It may just take a bit more work to find the right policy. That’s where speaking to an expert can really help. They can compare different options and guide you towards the most suitable cover.

Does life insurance for MS pay out?

Yes, life insurance will pay out a lump sum if you pass away during the life insurance policy term. As long as the information you gave when applying was accurate and your premiums are up to date, your loved ones should receive the payout without any issues.

If you’re diagnosed with MS after your policy has already started, you usually don’t need to inform your insurer. But it’s also worth noting that life insurance doesn’t pay out just because you’re diagnosed with a serious condition like MS. Rather, it’s designed to provide financial support to your chosen beneficiaries after you pass away.

Can I get life insurance if MS runs in my family?

Yes, having a family history of MS doesn’t stop you from getting life insurance. While MS isn’t directly inherited, having a close relative with the condition can increase your chances of developing it. Because of this, insurers may ask about your family’s medical history when you apply.

They’ll consider things like how many relatives have MS, how closely related they are to you and how severe their condition is. This helps them work out whether it affects your policy or premiums.

How much does MS life insurance cost?

The cost of life insurance with MS will depend on your personal situation and the type of policy you choose.

Because MS is a pre-existing condition, you may be charged a higher premium, often called a “loaded” premium. How much extra you pay will depend on things like the type of MS you have, the severity and the insurer you choose.

When you apply, you’ll be asked about your health, lifestyle and details of your condition. This helps the insurer understand your level of risk and give you a quote that’s tailored to you.

Every insurer assesses risk a little differently, so what one company charges could be very different from another. That’s why it’s so important to compare a range of life insurance quotes before making a decision.

If you have MS, you can still find competitive rates, especially if your condition is well-managed. Another option to consider if you’re aged 50 to 85 is an over 50s plan as these don’t usually require any medical information.

Protect your loved ones with MS life insurance from LV=

We make it simple to find affordable, tailored life cover for people with MS. We have partnered with the UK’s leading life insurance broker, LifeSearch, who understand your needs, so you get the right policy without the hassle. 

FAQs about life insurance for MS sufferers UK

You probably have lots to ask about MS life insurance. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive.

Will I need a medical examination for life insurance?

An insurer might ask you to have a medical exam before approving life insurance based on the severity of your condition and personal circumstances. If this is the case, the exam will be scheduled at a time and place that’s convenient for you, usually at a local clinic, and the insurer will cover the cost.

Alternatively, the insurer might ask to see your medical records. With your permission, they’ll contact your GP directly to get the information they need. If you can’t provide this consent, your application won’t continue, as the insurer needs these details to assess your policy.

What if I don’t disclose MS?

Being honest about your MS is crucial. Not disclosing it (non-disclosure) could cancel your policy and stop your loved ones from receiving a payout. Most claims are paid, but non-disclosure is the top reason for rejections. That’s why you should always be upfront to keep your cover valid.

What if I’m diagnosed with MS during my policy?

You don’t have to tell your insurer if you’re diagnosed after your policy starts. But keeping them updated can help avoid delays if a claim is ever made, giving you extra peace of mind.

Can I still get cover if I’ve been declined before?

Yes. Even if you were declined in the past, you may still get life insurance, especially if your condition has stabilised or if you apply through a specialist insurer.

Will I pay more for MS life insurance?

Your premiums might be a little higher, but there are plenty of affordable options available.