When it comes to getting insurance, many Filipinos usually ask:
“Pwede ba talaga ako ma-insure?” or “Bakit mas mura yung premium niya kaysa sa akin?”
The answer lies in one important concept: insurability.
Simply put, insurability is your ability to qualify for insurance coverage. It’s how insurance companies measure the level of risk you bring before approving your policy and deciding how much you’ll pay for your premiums.
Now, the good news is—your insurability isn’t just about luck. There are specific things insurers look at, and knowing them can help you prepare better and get the protection you need at the right cost.
So here’s your Insurability Checklist—the things you need to qualify for insurance:
✅ 1. Age Matters
Let’s be real—insurance is cheaper when you’re younger. Why? Because younger people are generally healthier and pose less risk to insurers.
👉 Example: A 25-year-old non-smoker applying for life insurance will pay much lower premiums than a 45-year-old with the same coverage.
Tip for Pinoys: Don’t wait until you’re older to get insured. “Huwag nang hintayin na may sakit bago kumuha ng insurance.” The earlier you start, the more affordable your protection will be.
✅ 2. Health Condition and Medical History
Your health is one of the biggest factors in your insurability. Insurance companies will check if you have pre-existing conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or heart problems) or if you’ve been hospitalized before.
👉 If you’re healthy, you’ll get approved faster and at lower premiums.
👉 If you already have medical conditions, you might still be insured, but at higher costs or with certain exclusions.
Tip for Pinoys: Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle not only improve your life—but also your chances of getting insured affordably.
✅ 3. Lifestyle and Habits
Do you smoke? Drink alcohol excessively? Or maybe enjoy extreme sports like diving, mountain climbing, or motor racing? These habits can affect your insurability since they increase your risk of accidents or health problems.
Tip for Pinoys: If you’re planning to get insurance, quitting smoking and practicing healthier habits can significantly improve your application and reduce your premiums.
✅ 4. Occupation and Work Environment
Some jobs are riskier than others. For example, construction workers, seafarers, or firefighters may face higher insurance premiums compared to office workers, since their work environment is more dangerous.
Tip for Pinoys: If you’re in a high-risk job, it’s even more important to get insured early. Don’t delay—coverage is your safety net.
✅ 5. Financial Stability
Yes, your financial situation also affects your insurability. Insurers look at your capacity to consistently pay for premiums. After all, insurance is a long-term commitment.
Tip for Pinoys: Create a simple budget plan. Start with an affordable policy first, then upgrade later as your income grows. What matters is you start.
✅ 6. Claims History
Just like in car insurance, a history of frequent claims may make insurers more cautious. If you’ve made several claims in the past, companies may consider you a higher-risk client.
Tip for Pinoys: Use insurance wisely—it’s a protection, not an income replacement plan. Only claim when really necessary.
💡 Why This Checklist Matters for Filipinos
For many Pinoys, insurance sometimes feels intimidating—“Baka hindi ako ma-approve” or “Mahal siguro yan.” But understanding what affects your insurability can give you confidence and help you make smarter choices.
At the end of the day, insurance isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for every Filipino who wants to protect their family’s future.
📝 Final Thoughts
Insurance companies are not looking for “perfect” people—they’re looking for people who value protection, responsibility, and preparedness.
✅ Get insured while you’re young and healthy.
✅ Maintain a lifestyle that supports your health and finances.
✅ Understand what insurers look for so you can take action now.
Remember: The best time to get insurance was yesterday. The second-best time is today. Don’t wait until it’s too late—secure your insurability while you still can.