Does Life Insurance Cover Suicide?

Most life insurance policies exclude suicide during the first two years (the contestability period). After that, suicide is typically covered.

By the Home & Dime Editorial Team · Updated 2026

The two-year clause

If the insured dies by suicide within the first two policy years, insurers usually refund premiums rather than pay the death benefit.

After two years

Once the contestability period passes, most policies pay the full benefit regardless of cause.

Frequently asked questions

Why the two-year rule?

It protects insurers from policies bought with immediate intent.

Is the benefit paid after two years?

Typically yes.

Related guides

• What does life insurance cover?

Sources: Insurance Information Institute (iii.org); Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; FEMA; state Departments of Insurance. General information, not insurance advice.