Frequently asked questions

Every question, answered plainly.

52 clear, concise answers about life insurance, term insurance, no-medical options, and final expense coverage at Oneday. No jargon, no runaround.

Section 1 of 6

Life insurance basics

What life insurance is, what it covers, and how it pays out.

What is life insurance?

Life insurance is a contract between the policy owner and the insurance company. In exchange for your premium payments, the insurer agrees to pay a set amount of money (a death benefit) to the designated beneficiary after the insured policy owner dies. Your beneficiaries can use the money for anything they choose.

What does life insurance cover?

The death benefit can be used by your beneficiaries for various purposes, such as:

  • Paying for funeral, burial, and related expenses
  • Paying off outstanding debts, such as a mortgage, car loan, personal loan, or credit card debt
  • Replacing lost income so your beneficiaries can continue to pay for living expenses like housing, food, and utilities
  • Paying for future expenses, such as your children's education or other long-term financial goals

Life insurance policies may have exclusions and limitations, such as suicide clauses or limitations on pre-existing medical conditions. It's essential to read and understand the terms and conditions of the policy before purchasing it to ensure it meets your needs and expectations.

How much coverage do I need?

A simple rule of thumb is DIME: add your Debts, your Income times the number of years your family would need it, your remaining Mortgage, and future Education costs for your kids. That total is your target.

The right amount also depends on your expenses, your dependants' needs, and your long-term financial goals. Use our coverage calculator to work out the appropriate amount for your specific situation.

Do I really need life insurance? Who needs it?

Life insurance helps protect your loved ones financially if something happens to you. If you have debts, dependants, or want to leave a legacy, it's worth considering.

How much will life insurance cost? What factors impact my premium?

The cost depends on age, health, lifestyle (smoking, hobbies), coverage amount, and policy length. A younger, healthier applicant usually gets lower premiums.

How long does it take life insurance to pay out?

How long it takes for your policy to pay out depends on several factors, including the type of policy and the cause of death. In general, if the policy is in force and the claim is valid, it will typically pay out within a few weeks to a few months after the necessary documentation is received. If the policy has a waiting period, which is typically two years from the date the policy is issued, the payout may be delayed until the waiting period has passed.

How is my policy protected if the insurance company becomes insolvent?

In Canada, policies are protected by Assuris, which guarantees that you won't lose your coverage or benefits because your insurer fails.

What is a beneficiary, and who can I name as one?

A beneficiary is the person or entity that receives the death benefit. You can name one or more (primary and contingent) and change them over time.

Will my beneficiaries need to pay taxes on the death benefit?

In Canada, life insurance death benefits are generally tax-free to the beneficiary.

How do I file a claim, and how long does payout take?

To file a claim, submit a claim form, death certificate, and any required documents to the insurer. Claims are typically paid within a few weeks to months, depending on circumstances. Our make a claim page walks through the full process, documents, and timelines.

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Section 2 of 6

About Oneday & eligibility

What we offer, who underwrites it, and who can apply.

What exactly does Oneday offer?

Oneday is a brand of Oneday TPA Inc., a licensed insurance intermediary and third-party administrator. We design and administer simple life insurance for Canadians: one application, plain-language questions, no medical exam, and a decision within 24 hours. Coverage runs from $5,000 to $500,000, with term and permanent options, and every applicant aged 18 to 80 receives an offer.

Our approach is to simplify the life insurance process so it's easier to understand and purchase, see our products for the full picture, prices included.

Who underwrites my policy?

Every Oneday policy is underwritten and guaranteed by Humania Assurance Inc., a Canadian life insurer founded in 1874. Oneday TPA Inc. designs the products, runs the technology, and administers your policy; your insurance contract is with Humania. Your day-to-day experience is with us.

What ages are eligible for insurance through Oneday?

If you are between the ages of 18 and 80, you are eligible to apply for coverage.

Where is Oneday available?

Oneday is licensed to operate in seven provinces: Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. We are not currently available in Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, or the territories. Our operations fall under the oversight of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) and the insurance regulators of each province we serve.

Can you get life insurance with pre-existing conditions?

Yes. A pre-existing condition is a health condition you had before you applied for life insurance, examples include diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and high blood pressure. When you apply, we ask about your medical history in plain language; there is never a medical exam. Based on your answers, your coverage amount and premium may be affected, but every applicant aged 18 to 80 receives an offer, including a guaranteed acceptance option that asks no health questions at all.

It's important to disclose any pre-existing conditions when applying so the coverage you receive is accurate and appropriate for your needs. Our licensed insurance advisors can help you navigate the process and explain the best options available to you.

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Section 3 of 6

Term life insurance

Coverage for a set number of years, and how it compares.

What is term life insurance?

Term life insurance is a type of life insurance policy that provides coverage for a specified period of time, typically ranging from one to 30 years. If the insured individual were to pass away during the term of the policy, their beneficiaries would receive a death benefit payout.

When does term life insurance pay out?

Term life insurance pays out a death benefit to the beneficiaries of the policy if the insured individual passes away during the term of the policy. The death benefit is paid out as a lump sum and is typically tax-free.

Is term life insurance tax-deductible?

Term life insurance premiums are generally not tax-deductible, whether you are an individual or a business owner.

Personal life insurance premiums, including those for term life insurance, are considered personal expenses and are not tax-deductible on your federal income tax return. If you are a business owner and you purchase group term life insurance for your employees, the premiums may be tax-deductible as a business expense. However, this depends on various factors such as the type of business entity, the purpose of the coverage, and the amount of coverage. It is recommended to consult with a tax professional or accountant for more information on deductibility.

Additionally, if the beneficiaries of a term life insurance policy receive a death benefit payout, the payout is generally not taxable as income for federal tax purposes. However, if the policy was owned by a business, the death benefit may be subject to estate taxes. It is recommended to consult with a tax professional or accountant for more information on taxation of death benefits.

What happens if you outlive a term life policy?

If you outlive a term life insurance policy, the coverage will expire, and you will no longer have life insurance coverage. This means that your beneficiaries will not receive any payout or benefits from the policy if you pass away after the term has ended.

However, some term life insurance policies may offer a renewal option, which allows you to extend the coverage beyond the original term. The premium for the renewed policy may be higher than the original premium, based on your age at the time of renewal.

Alternatively, you can purchase a new term life insurance policy or consider other types of life insurance, such as permanent life insurance, which provides coverage for your entire life. It's always a good idea to review your insurance needs and goals regularly and consult with a financial advisor or life insurance professional to help you make informed decisions.

Does term life insurance cover accidental death?

Most term life insurance policies include an accidental death benefit rider, which provides an additional benefit in the event of accidental death. But the terms and conditions of the coverage may vary depending on the policy.

The accidental death benefit rider may provide a lump sum payout to the beneficiary if the insured dies as a result of an accident, such as a car accident or a fall. It's important to review the terms and conditions of your term life insurance policy, including any riders or endorsements, to understand the extent of your accidental death coverage.

Some policies may have exclusions or limitations, such as not covering death resulting from certain activities or occupations. Speak with a life insurance professional to ensure that you have the appropriate coverage for your needs and goals, including accidental death coverage if that is a concern.

Does term life insurance cover disability?

Term life insurance policies generally do not cover disability directly, as they are designed to provide a death benefit to the beneficiary if the insured passes away during the term of the policy. However, some term life insurance policies may include a rider for a disability benefit. A disability benefit rider provides an additional benefit if the insured becomes disabled and is unable to work. This rider may pay a monthly benefit to the insured to help cover living expenses while they are disabled and unable to work.

It's important to review the terms and conditions of your term life insurance policy, including any riders or endorsements, to understand the extent of your disability coverage. Some policies may have exclusions or limitations, such as not covering certain types of disabilities or only covering disabilities that are permanent.

If you are looking for disability insurance coverage, it may be a good idea to consider purchasing a separate disability insurance policy that is specifically designed to provide coverage for disability.

What’s the difference between term and permanent insurance?

The main difference between term and permanent insurance is that term insurance provides coverage for a specific period of time, while permanent insurance provides coverage for the insured's entire lifetime. Term insurance policies provide coverage for a set period of time, such as 10, 20, or 30 years. If the insured passes away during the term of the policy, the policy pays a death benefit to the beneficiary. If the insured outlives the policy term, the coverage ends, and there is no payout or benefit. Permanent insurance policies, on the other hand, provide coverage for the insured's entire lifetime, as long as the policy premiums are paid. Permanent insurance policies, such as whole life or universal life insurance, also have a savings component that builds cash value over time, which can be borrowed against or withdrawn.

It's important to understand your insurance needs and goals when deciding between term and permanent insurance. If you only need coverage for a specific period of time, such as to pay off a mortgage or provide for your family while they are growing up, then term insurance may be a good option. If you have a permanent need for life insurance coverage, such as to provide for a spouse or leave a legacy for your children or grandchildren, then permanent insurance may be a better option.

What are the four types of term life insurance?

There are four main types of term life insurance:

  • Level-term life insurance: the most common type. It provides a fixed death benefit and premium for a specific term, usually ranging from 5 to 30 years. The premiums remain level for the entire term of the policy, and the death benefit is paid out if the insured passes away during the term.
  • Decreasing term life insurance: provides a death benefit that decreases over time, typically to match the declining balance of a mortgage or other debt. The premiums remain level for the entire term of the policy.
  • Renewable term life insurance: allows the policyholder to renew their policy at the end of the term, without having to undergo underwriting again. However, the premiums for the new term may be higher.
  • Convertible term life insurance: allows the policyholder to convert their policy into a permanent life insurance policy, such as whole life or universal life, without providing new evidence of insurability. This can be a good option for those who want to start with a term policy but may want to switch to permanent coverage in the future.

Each type may have different features, benefits, and costs, and it's important to carefully review and compare your options to find the best policy for your needs and goals.

Which is better: term or whole life insurance?

Whether term or whole life insurance is better for you depends on your individual circumstances, needs, and goals. Here are some key differences:

  • Coverage: term life insurance provides coverage for a specific term, while whole life insurance provides coverage for your entire life.
  • Premiums: term life insurance premiums are typically lower than whole life insurance premiums, especially for younger individuals. Whole life insurance premiums are higher, but they remain level for the life of the policy.
  • Cash value: whole life insurance policies build cash value over time, which you can borrow against or withdraw. Term policies do not accumulate any cash value.
  • Investment component: whole life insurance policies often include an investment component, which can provide additional returns and tax advantages. Term policies do not.

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Section 4 of 6

No-medical life insurance

Coverage without a medical exam: how it works and who qualifies.

What is no-medical life insurance?

No-medical life insurance is a type of life insurance policy that does not require a medical exam as part of the underwriting process. Instead, the insurer asks a few basic health questions to assess your risk and determine your eligibility for coverage.

No-medical life insurance can benefit individuals with pre-existing health conditions or a history of medical issues that may make it difficult to obtain traditional life insurance. There are two types:

  • Simplified issue: requires you to answer a few health questions but no medical exam. The insurer uses this information to assess your risk and determine your eligibility for coverage.
  • Guaranteed issue: does not require any health questions or medical exams. As long as you meet the age requirements, you are guaranteed acceptance. Guaranteed issue policies often have lower coverage limits and higher premiums due to the increased risk for the insurer.

Because no-medical policies skip the exam, they may have higher premiums or lower coverage limits than traditional fully underwritten policies. Review the terms and conditions of any policy you are considering carefully.

When does no-medical insurance pay out?

No-medical life insurance policies pay out a death benefit to your beneficiaries upon your passing, just like traditional life insurance policies.

Generally, the death benefit is paid out after the insurer has received proof of death and completed their review of the claim. This process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the circumstances and the policy's terms and conditions.

Most life insurance policies, including no-medical policies, may have exclusions and limitations that affect the timing and amount of the death benefit payout. For example, some policies have a waiting period before the death benefit is paid out, or exclude death caused by certain activities or conditions.

What is the difference between simplified issue and guaranteed issue life insurance?

Simplified issue and guaranteed issue are both types of no-medical life insurance policies, but there are some differences between them.

Simplified issue life insurance requires you to answer a few health questions, but does not require a medical exam. The insurer uses this information to assess your risk and determine your eligibility for coverage. Simplified issue policies typically offer higher coverage amounts and lower premiums compared to guaranteed issue policies, but the eligibility requirements may be more stringent.

Guaranteed issue life insurance does not require any health questions or a medical exam. Guaranteed issue policies often have lower coverage limits and higher premiums compared to simplified issue policies because the insurance company is taking on more risk by insuring individuals without asking for medical information. As long as you meet the age requirements, you are guaranteed acceptance.

What are the eligibility requirements for Oneday no-medical life insurance?

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident/landed immigrant, fall between the ages of 18 and 80, and live in a province we serve (Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, or Nova Scotia), you are eligible to apply. No medical exam is ever required, and guaranteed acceptance coverage is available if you meet the eligibility criteria above.

Do applicants need a medical examination to be eligible?

No medical examination is necessary. For guaranteed acceptance coverage, you won't have to provide any information about your health when applying; for our other coverage options, you answer a short set of plain-language health questions instead of taking an exam.

What payment options are available for my policy?

Payment for your policy can be made either monthly or annually. If you opt for monthly payments through pre-authorized debit, your account will be automatically debited upon approval of your coverage. Alternatively, if you choose to pay annually, we will send you an invoice for the full annual premium.

How do I apply for Oneday no-medical life insurance coverage?

To apply, you can get a quote online or call us at 1 800 655 2795.

How much no-medical insurance should I buy?

Start with DIME: your Debts, plus your Income times the years your family would need it, plus your Mortgage, plus Education costs for your kids. Then use our coverage calculator to refine the number.

When does my coverage start and end?

The exact start and end dates of coverage depend on the specific terms of your policy. In general, your coverage begins on the effective date specified in your policy documents, which is usually the date that your first premium payment is received and processed.

The end date of your coverage depends on whether your policy has a fixed term or is a permanent policy. If you have a term life insurance policy, your coverage ends at the end of the term, a set number of years specified in the policy. If you have a permanent life insurance policy, your coverage remains in effect as long as you continue to pay the premiums.

Review your policy documents carefully, or ask our advisors, to understand the specific start and end dates of your coverage.

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Section 5 of 6

Final expense insurance

Smaller permanent coverage designed for end-of-life costs.

Do I need final expense insurance?

Whether you need final expense insurance depends on your individual circumstances and financial goals. Final expense insurance can provide peace of mind by covering funeral and burial costs and other end-of-life expenses. Consider your family's financial situation and existing insurance policies to determine if final expense insurance is suitable for you.

What is the difference between life insurance and final expense insurance?

Life and final expense insurance are both designed to provide financial security to your loved ones. However, life insurance typically provides a larger death benefit to cover various expenses, such as mortgage payments, education costs, and income replacement. Final expense insurance, on the other hand, is designed specifically to cover funeral, burial, and other final arrangements, with a smaller death benefit.

Does life insurance cover funeral expenses?

Life insurance can cover funeral expenses, depending on the specific policy and the death benefit amount. The beneficiaries can use the payout from a life insurance policy to cover funeral costs and other expenses. However, if the death benefit is insufficient or already earmarked for other purposes, final expense insurance can be a valuable addition to ensure funeral costs are covered.

How much does final expense insurance cost?

Final expense insurance costs vary depending on age, gender, health, and coverage amount. Premiums tend to be more affordable than traditional life insurance policies, as the death benefit is typically smaller.

To find the right policy and rate for your needs, call us at 1 800 655 2795.

How much final expense coverage do I need?

The final expense coverage you need depends on your anticipated funeral and burial expenses and any other end-of-life costs you wish to cover. Costs vary significantly depending on location and personal preferences, so assessing your needs and discussing them with your family is essential to determine an appropriate coverage amount.

Use our end-of-life cost calculator to learn more.

What happens when you don’t have final expense insurance?

If you don't have final expense insurance, your family will be responsible for covering funeral and burial costs and other end-of-life expenses. This financial burden can be stressful for your loved ones during an already difficult time. Having final expense insurance in place can help your family carry out your final wishes, alleviate their burden, and provide peace of mind for you and your family.

What are the pros and cons of a final expense insurance policy?

Like any insurance policy, there are both pros and cons to consider when deciding if a final expense policy is right for you.

Pros:

  • Affordability: final expense policies tend to be relatively inexpensive, with premiums often ranging from $20 to $100 per month, depending on the amount of coverage you need.
  • Ease of qualification: lenient underwriting requirements make it easier for seniors or those with health issues to qualify for coverage.
  • No medical exam required: the application process is quicker and more convenient.
  • Guaranteed death benefit: your beneficiaries receive a payout upon your death, subject to the policy's terms.

Cons:

  • Lower death benefits: final expense policies have lower death benefits than traditional life insurance policies, which may not be sufficient to cover all end-of-life expenses.
  • Limited coverage options: there may be a maximum coverage amount or limits on what is covered.
  • No cash value: final expense policies do not accumulate cash value over time, so you cannot borrow against the policy or receive a cash payout if you cancel.

Overall, final expense policies can be a good option for those looking for an affordable way to ensure their end-of-life expenses are covered. Carefully consider the pros and cons and compare with other life insurance options to determine which best meets your needs and budget.

What is the duration of coverage for my Oneday final expense insurance policy?

Your Oneday final expense insurance policy remains in effect for your entire lifetime, typically to age 100, as long as you continue to pay the premiums. Review the terms and conditions of your policy to understand the duration of coverage, as well as any limitations or exclusions that may apply.

What are the eligibility requirements for Oneday final expense coverage?

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident/landed immigrant, fall between the ages of 18 and 80, and live in a province we serve, you are eligible to apply for Oneday final expense coverage.

Final expense policies have lenient underwriting requirements, which means they are easier to qualify for than traditional life insurance. Applicants answer some basic health questions on the application and disclose any pre-existing medical conditions; the answers determine the coverage amount and price offered, and every applicant aged 18 to 80 receives an offer.

Do applicants need a medical examination for final expense coverage?

No. Applicants do not need to undergo a medical examination for Oneday final expense coverage, it's designed to be accessible to people who may not qualify for traditional life insurance because of their age or health status. Applicants answer some basic health questions on the application and disclose any pre-existing medical conditions, and we may request additional information if needed to complete the application. A licensed advisor can walk you through exactly what's asked before you start.

What payment options are available for my final expense policy?

Payment for your policy can be made either monthly or annually. If you opt for monthly payments through pre-authorized debit, your account will be automatically debited upon approval of your coverage. Alternatively, if you choose to pay annually, we will send you an invoice for the full annual premium.

How do I apply for Oneday final expense coverage?

To apply, get a quote online or call us at 1 800 655 2795.

How much final expense insurance should I buy?

Use our end-of-life cost calculator to estimate your funeral, burial, and other end-of-life costs, then choose a coverage amount that comfortably covers them.

What are some exclusions to Oneday final expense coverage?

Exclusions are specific circumstances or conditions that are not covered under your policy. Under the following circumstances, the death benefit will not be paid out:

  • If the death of the insured person occurs within the first two years from the policy's effective date or latest reinstatement, a full refund of premiums paid will be issued instead.
  • If the insured person dies by suicide, while sane or insane, within two years from the policy's effective date or latest reinstatement.
  • If the policy is declared void due to a material omission, misrepresentation, or fraud.

Review the specific exclusions listed in your policy documents.

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Section 6 of 6

Applying & managing your policy

What to expect during the application, and after.

What should I expect when applying for Oneday term life insurance?

When applying for term life insurance, there are several steps you can expect:

  • Determine your insurance needs: work out how much coverage you need and for how long. You can use our online calculator or talk it through with one of our licensed advisors.
  • Apply for coverage: complete the application with personal and health information, plain-language questions, answered online or over the phone. There is no medical exam, blood test, or doctor's note.
  • Underwriting: we review your answers to assess your eligibility and confirm your price. You'll have a decision within 24 hours.
  • Approval and premium payment: if you accept the offer, you choose your payment options and pay the first premium to activate the policy.
  • Policy delivery and review: once your policy is in force, we send you the policy and other important documents. Review them carefully to ensure the coverage meets your expectations.

Be honest and accurate when providing information on your application: any misrepresentation or omission could result in denial of a future claim or policy cancellation.

Does coverage begin immediately? What is the effective date?

Coverage begins once your policy is issued and your first premium is processed. The effective date will be shown in your policy documents.

What is the “free look” / cancellation period?

After your policy is issued, you have a free look window during which you can cancel for a full refund if you change your mind. The exact window for your policy is printed in your policy documents.

What happens if I miss a payment or my policy lapses?

If you miss a premium, many policies include a grace period (for example, 30 days) before coverage ends. After that, you may need to reinstate your policy subject to underwriting.

Can I cancel my term life insurance policy?

Yes, you can cancel your term life insurance policy at any time. However, the process and consequences of cancelling may vary depending on the specific terms and conditions of your policy. Review your policy carefully, including any cancellation provisions and the potential consequences, such as losing coverage or paying higher premiums if you reapply later. If you decide to cancel, contact us to initiate the cancellation process.

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