I've stopped smoking: can my premium be reduced?

Life insuranceCritical illness coverIncome protection
The short answer

Possibly. Most insurers treat you as a non-smoker once you have not used tobacco or nicotine products, often including vapes and nicotine replacement, for at least 12 months. Some will review your existing premium, while others will ask you to apply for a new policy at non-smoker rates. Ask your insurer which applies.

What you may need to provide

The insurer may ask you to confirm your smoking status and, in some cases, take a simple test.

If a new policy is needed

Compare carefully. A new policy is priced on your current age and health, so the saving may be smaller than expected. Keep your existing cover until any new policy has started.

Be honest

If you start smoking again, a new non-smoker policy based on incorrect information could affect a claim.

Sources

MoneyHelper

This article is general information about UK protection insurance, not personalised financial advice. Policy terms vary between insurers and products, so always check your own policy documents.

Last updated 27 October 2026