Smoker status is the underwriting classification that reflects whether an applicant uses tobacco or nicotine products and heavily influences life insurance premium rates. Insurers typically distinguish between non-smoker and smoker or tobacco classes, and may add nuances such as preferred non-tobacco, standard tobacco, or separate categories for cigars, e-cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco. Smoker status is usually determined by self-disclosure on the application and verified with cotinine tests and medical records. Because tobacco and nicotine use are strongly associated with elevated mortality risk, smoker premiums can be significantly higher than non-smoker rates for the same age and coverage amount.

Advisors discuss smoker status early in the sales process to set realistic premium expectations and avoid surprise rate changes after underwriting. They clarify that occasional or social smoking, vaping, or smokeless tobacco use may still trigger smoker or nicotine classes depending on carrier rules. Clients who have quit may qualify for non-smoker classes after a specified tobacco-free period, often documented by negative labs. Replacement and refinance strategies sometimes focus on re-underwriting former smokers to secure lower non-smoker rates. Understanding smoker status definitions, carrier differences, and reclassification opportunities helps advisors optimize pricing and encourage healthier behaviors over time.