Sums to guess allotted span

The most heavily weighted factors considered in a calculation on how long you might live will differ between a company scheme (where the risk is spread and fewer questions might be asked) and an individual policy.

Various life insurers will also place a different emphasis on each factor, but the key factors analysed are:

• Age;
• Gender;
• Health status (existing conditions, family medical history, whether or not you smoke);
• Income and education; and
• Geographic region.