Life insurance is an important safeguard to have in place. It protects your loved ones in the event of your death, and it gives you peace of mind knowing your family will be cared for after you're gone. One of the biggest factors affecting life insurance rates is family history. To better understand the relationship between these two areas, below are answers to some of the more frequently asked questions on the subject.

FAQs About How Family History Can Impact Your Life Insurance Rates

Will My Family's Health Have a Bearing on How Much I Pay for Life Insurance?

In short, it could. Many life insurance providers will want to know about the medical issues that plagued your family of origin, specifically your parents and siblings. If your family was relatively healthy for the majority of their lives, you likely have nothing to worry about. If your family had some specific health problems, it could influence how much you are ultimately charged for health insurance.

What Health Issues Will an Insurer Look for?

There are two. The first is cardiovascular disease and any heart- or vascular-related conditions. Examples include heart attacks, bypass surgeries, and arrhythmias. The second is certain types of cancer, such as breast, colon, lung, or pancreatic cancer.

I Lead a Healthier Lifestyle Than My Parents/Siblings. Can They Still Charge Me More?

Unfortunately, yes. But don't dismiss getting life insurance entirely. There are many gray areas, and each insurance provider has wildly different guidelines. If one provider quotes you something unrealistic, you have countless other insurers you can consider.

I'm Not Sure About My Family's History. How Can I Get the Coverage I Need?

Come to your meeting with your insurance agent as prepared as possible. Take the time to gather all the documentation you can regarding your family of origin's health. In some cases, this may not be possible — adopted children or children from one-parent families, for example, may not know one or both of their biological parents. But don't let that dissuade you. Your agent will work with you to find the most beneficial policy for your budget and your needs.

Since 1960, Kramer-Myers & Werring-Dickerson has provided insurance solutions to the Batavia, Ohio, area. In addition to life insurance, they offer home, auto, and other types of insurance coverage. Call (513) 732-1461, visit their website, or connect with them via their Facebook or Google+ page to make an appointment and start exploring your life insurance possibilities with an experienced and trusted professional.