Have you smoked cigarettes for a period of time within the last year? Have you used other tobacco products, such as cigars or chewing tobacco? Have you smoked on occasion in social situations or even just to succumb your craving? If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, you are considered a smoker by life insurance companies.

These factors are very important because even if you smoke only a few times a year, you are increasing the risk of health issues and sickness. This, in turn, will increase the risk of death. Health conditions can greatly change the rate of your life insurance policy. Different life insurance companies offer an array of options for regular smokers, occasional smokers, and those who use other types of tobacco, so using tobacco products won't keep you from getting a life insurance policy.

If you are definitely considered a smoker though, you will most likely pay a much higher premium than those who are considered nonsmokers. This hefty price is calculated based on the amount and the type of nicotine you use, and the period of time you’ve used it. If you’ve smoked before, and stopped smoking recently, or haven’t smoked for a long period of time, this can also factor in to calculating your rate.

Since rates are so expensive, some people have resorted to lying about their smoking. But don’t think that you’re in the clear. Even if you pass the nicotine test by cheating once, you can be slapped with a much higher rate than you have now if you are caught smoking down the road.

Want to know more about life insurance? Check out the guide we wrote. It tells you how you can get the best deal on the policy that's right for you.