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Updated: August 2025 | Originally published: June 2017
Applied elsewhere and got slapped with a sky-high premium because of your arthritis? Yep, it’s common — but it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you’ve got Rheumatoid Arthritis or another form of joint-crunching misery, here’s what you need to know about getting life insurance, mortgage protection, income protection, and serious illness cover without losing your mind (or your money).
“Hi Nick, we applied for life insurance through another broker (sorry!) but my wife was hit with a huge price increase (twice the normal price) because she was recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Our broker says he can’t get a lower price. Can you try to get us a better deal? Cheers, Eoin”
Yep, it happens more often than you’d think — especially if your broker only deals with one insurer 😬
When it comes to health conditions, underwriters like predictability.
And RA is anything but.
It flares up, it affects other systems (like your lungs and eyes), and it doesn’t always play by the rules.
You can get it with mild to moderate RA, but expect a price hike. If your RA is severe, insurers will say thanks but no thanks.
It depends. You’ve got a shot with mild or moderate RA, but it’s on a case-by-case basis. Insurers scrutinise income protection more than life or mortgage protection. If you are being treated with biologics, then it’s likely to be a no.
There are five life insurers in Ireland. They all treat arthritis differently. Some penalise heavily. Some are more sound.
Complete this short questionnaire and I’ll bring your case to the right underwriter — no guesswork, no messing.
If it’s not RA, you might get the standard price.
We’ve helped people with:
If you’re managing it with mild meds and have no surgery planned, insurers won’t be too bothered. But if you’re on something like methotrexate, expect a loading.
Each insurer takes a different view of arthritis. Some (like the one in Eoin’s case) might double your premium without blinking. Others? More understanding.
That’s why it’s so important to go to the right insurer from the start — and avoid wasting time (and money) with the wrong one.
Don’t accept the first offer you get — especially if it came from a “broker” (cough, tied agent, cough) who only deals with one insurer. I’ll review your case across all five and let you know what’s doable.
Fill out this short questionnaire and I’ll be back to you with proper, arthritis-aware advice.
Or if you’d prefer a quick chat first, schedule a quick callback.
Nick McGowan
Life Insurance Advisor-ish | Lion.ie
As Ireland's leading life insurance broker, we specialise in comparing the rates and policies from the top five Irish life insurance providers and offering the very best value quotes to suit the individual needs of our clients. Our expertise lies in finding a suitable insurance plan for those with specific needs, be it a particular illness, occupation or claim history, we've got you covered in every sense!
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