Yes — John Hancock carries strong financial ratings (A+ AM Best, AA- S&P) and is backed by Manulife Financial, one of the world's largest insurers. It stands out for its Vitality wellness program that rewards healthy habits with premium discounts, and offers competitive underwriting for pre-existing conditions including HIV.

John Hancock Life Insurance began in 1862 and is owned and operated by Manulife Financial Corp. in Canada. From its long history to its high ratings and excellent customer service, few companies can compete with John Hancock when it comes to quality life insurance options. While it began as a mutual company, being owned by its policyholders, it transitioned into a demutualized company at the end of the 20th century, trading its stock to shareholders.

John Hancock Mutual Life

601 Congress St.
Boston, MA 02210
(800) 732-5543
webmail@jhancock.com
www.johnhancock.com

Advantages of John Hancock Life Insurance

Strong financial strength ratings from major agencies.
Excellent customer service reputation.
Competitive underwriting for applicants with pre-existing conditions, including HIV.
Long operating history and financial backing from Manulife Financial.

Disadvantages of John Hancock Life Insurance

Limited online capabilities historically — many policy changes required submission by mail rather than online self-service.
Shorter maximum term periods compared to some competitors, with terms limited to 10, 15, and 20 years (no 30-year term option).

Available Products

Term life insurance: available in 10, 15, and 20-year terms, convertible to permanent coverage.
Permanent life insurance: universal life, variable universal life, and indexed universal life.
Guaranteed-acceptance whole life insurance: no medical exam or health questions required, with a maximum coverage amount of $20,000.

Financial Strength Ratings

AM Best: A+ (Superior)
S&P Global: AA-
Moody's: A1

Last updated on: September 9, 2026

John Hancock Vitality Program

John Hancock Vitality is a wellness rewards program unique to John Hancock among major life insurers, and it is one of the company’s most significant differentiators. Policyholders earn points for healthy activities and redeem those points for real financial and lifestyle benefits.

Earn points for healthy activities, including exercise, annual health screenings, and healthy eating habits.
Policyholders can earn up to 15% in premium savings annually by staying active and engaged in the program.
Apple Watch discount program: eligible members can earn an Apple Watch through ongoing program participation.
Available with both term and permanent (universal, variable, and indexed universal life) policies.

John Hancock at a Glance (2026)

Founded: 1862
Headquarters: Boston, MA
Parent Company: Manulife Financial Corporation
AM Best Rating: A+ (Superior)
Key products: Term, Universal, Variable, Indexed UL, Vitality
Notable: Vitality wellness program, strong pre-existing condition underwriting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is John Hancock Vitality?

John Hancock Vitality is a wellness rewards program that lets policyholders earn points for healthy activities like exercise, health screenings, and healthy eating. Points can translate into premium savings of up to 15% annually, along with perks such as an Apple Watch discount program.

Does John Hancock offer no-exam life insurance?

Yes. John Hancock offers a guaranteed-acceptance whole life policy with no medical exam or health questions required, though coverage is capped at a relatively low maximum amount. Compare it against other no-exam term life insurance options to find the best fit.

What term lengths does John Hancock offer?

John Hancock offers convertible term life insurance in 10, 15, and 20-year terms. Unlike some competitors, it does not currently offer a 30-year term option, so buyers who need longer coverage periods should compare alternatives. Learn more in our term life insurance guide.

Is John Hancock owned by Manulife?

Yes. John Hancock Life Insurance Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Manulife Financial Corporation, one of the largest financial services companies in the world. John Hancock demutualized at the end of the 20th century and later became part of Manulife, giving policyholders the financial backing of a large, internationally diversified parent company.

Is John Hancock good for people with pre-existing conditions?

John Hancock is often cited as a strong option for applicants with pre-existing conditions, including HIV, thanks to relatively favorable underwriting guidelines compared to many competitors. Applicants with conditions such as diabetes should still shop around and compare offers — see our guide to life insurance with diabetes and our broader overview of life insurance with pre-existing conditions.