What disqualifies you from getting life insurance?

For fully underwritten or simplified issue policies, factors like a terminal diagnosis, recent major surgery, certain high-risk occupations or hobbies, or a very recent serious health event can result in a decline or a higher-risk rate class, though every carrier's guidelines differ.

Because underwriting standards vary so much between insurers, being declined by one company doesn't mean you'll be declined everywhere — an agent can shop your situation across multiple carriers.