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What counts as tobacco
Insurers draw the line in different places.
- Cigarettes: always tobacco rates
- Vaping and e-cigarettes: treated as tobacco by most insurers
- Cigars, pipes and chewing tobacco: some insurers are more lenient with occasional use
- Nicotine gum and patches: often still count, because the test detects nicotine
- Marijuana: rules vary widely, from non-tobacco rates to tobacco rates
Do not shade the truth
Insurers can test for nicotine and check medical records. Calling yourself a non-smoker when you are not can lead to a denied claim. Tell the agent what you use and how often, and let them find the insurer that treats it most favorably.
After you quit
Many insurers will consider non-tobacco rates once you have been nicotine-free for 12 months or longer. If you buy a policy as a smoker and later quit, ask whether the insurer will reconsider your rate, or apply for a new policy and compare.
Common questions
Is vaping cheaper to insure than smoking?
Usually not. Most insurers apply the same tobacco rates to vaping.
Should I wait until I quit to buy coverage?
If people depend on you, going without coverage for a year is a real risk. Many people buy now and seek a better rate after quitting.
This page is general information, not insurance, legal or tax advice. Policy terms, eligibility and pricing vary by insurer and state. A licensed insurance agent can explain the specific products they offer.