How no-medical over-50s cover works
Guaranteed acceptance over-50s plans provide a fixed cash sum on death with no medical and no health questions — anyone in the age range is accepted. They're popular for leaving money toward a funeral. But the certainty has trade-offs, and underwritten cover is often better value if your health allows. The best choice depends on whether you can answer health questions.
1. Guaranteed over-50s plans (no medical)
Guaranteed acceptance, fixed premiums, fixed payout, usually with a 1–2 year initial period before full cover. Best for those who can't get underwritten cover due to health — accessible to virtually everyone in the age range.
2. Underwritten whole-of-life (health questions, often no full medical)
Answering health questions can secure more cover for your money, often with no full medical required. Best for those in reasonable health — frequently better value than guaranteed plans, so compare before defaulting to no-medical cover.
3. Underwritten term cover
If you only need cover for a set period (e.g. until a mortgage ends), term cover is cheaper than whole-of-life. Best for a fixed, temporary need rather than guaranteed funeral cover.
4. The trade-offs of no-medical plans
With guaranteed plans, you can pay in more than the payout if you live a long time, and there's usually an initial qualifying period. Best to understand these before choosing — they suit specific situations, not everyone.
Which is best for you?
- Can't pass health questions: guaranteed over-50s plan (no medical)
- Reasonable health: underwritten whole-of-life (often better value)
- Temporary, fixed need: underwritten term cover
How to find the best over-50s cover
Don't assume a no-medical plan is your only or best option. A protection specialist will compare guaranteed and underwritten cover to find the best value for your health and goals. Find a life insurance specialist through Nesto — free, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get over-50s life insurance with no medical?
Yes — guaranteed acceptance plans require no medical and no health questions, accepting virtually anyone in the age range.
Are no-medical plans the best value?
Not always — if your health allows, underwritten cover (with health questions but often no full medical) frequently offers more for your money.
Is there a waiting period?
Guaranteed plans usually have a 1–2 year initial period before full cover applies (accidental death is often covered immediately).
Can I pay in more than the payout?
With guaranteed plans, yes — if you live a long time. That's a key trade-off to weigh against underwritten cover.
Do I need a medical for underwritten cover?
Often just health questions rather than a full medical, especially for modest sums. It can unlock better value than no-medical plans.