The top three most important factors in getting the lowest life insurance rates are health, lifestyle and family history.  On the latter, there is very little you can do to change your genetics.  Having an immediate family history of cardiovascular disease, cancer or premature death will likely increase your life insurance premiums but how much will vary on the insurance company you choose.  The bottom line is that life insurance companies determine your rate classification by calculating your risk of dying.  That is why cigarette smokers are penalized by insurance carriers.  They might pay as much as double the premiums of non-smokers. Find out in this section how staying healthy, maintaining a normal weight, controlling chronic diseases with regular medical care, and not smoking can get you the best rates on your life insurance.