Biggest Life Insurance Companies in Canada: Full Updated List

TL;DR? The biggest life insurance companies in Canada are Manulife, Canada Life, Sun Life, Desjardins and Industrial Alliance, based on the premiums they bring in, says Insurance Business Magazine.

Here's the full list of the biggest life insurance companies in Canada:

1. Manulife
2. Canada Life
3. Sun Life
4. Desjardins
5. Industrial Alliance (iA)
6. RBC Insurance
7. SSQ*
8. La Capitale*
9. BMO Life
10. Co-operators
11. Foresters

*SSQ and La Capitale merged and are now Beneva Insurance.

These companies have a solid reputation and offer a wide range of policies to meet different needs. Let's take a look at some of the largest life insurance companies in Canada:

1. Manulife Financial: Manulife Financial is one of the leading life insurance providers in Canada. With a rich history dating back over 130 years, Manulife offers a diverse portfolio of products, including term life, whole life, and universal life policies. Their strong financial stability and customer-centric approach have made them a trusted choice for many Canadians.
2. Canada Life: Formerly known as Great-West Life, Canada Life is a major player in the Canadian life insurance industry. With a history spanning more than 170 years, Canada Life provides a comprehensive range of policies, investment products, and retirement solutions. Their strong financial performance and excellent customer service make them a reliable choice for individuals and families seeking life insurance coverage.
3. Sun Life Financial: Sun Life Financial is another prominent name in the Canadian life insurance market. Established in 1865, Sun Life has a wide array of insurance options, including term life, permanent life, and critical illness coverage. The company's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has helped them earn the trust of millions of policyholders across the country.
4. Desjardins: Established in 1900 in Quebec, Desjardins Group is the largest federation of credit unions in North America. It's gained recognition as one of the world's top 50 safest banks and financiers. What sets Desjardins apart is its cooperative structure, where customers hold a small unit of the company and have the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes that shape its operations.
5. Industrial Alliance: Industrial Alliance (iA Financial Group) is a well-established company that has been serving Canadians for over 125 years. They offer a broad range of life insurance options, including term life, universal life, and critical illness coverage. iA Financial Group is known for its competitive rates, flexible policy features, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

While these are the biggest life insurance companies in Canada. It's important to research and compare various options to find the best fit for your specific needs. Remember to consider factors such as policy features, financial strength, customer reviews, and the expertise of the company's advisors when making your decision.

BMO is the largest life insurance company in Canada, with $39.2B in annual premiums and $200B in total assets.

Some Canadians feel more comfortable going with a big bank for their life insurance, either directly or through a broker.

It's also possible to go with an online insurance solution, like PolicyMe, or an online broker like PolicyAdvisor, which both have 5-star or almost 5-star customer ratings on Reviews.io.

PolicyMe is also backed by Securian Canada, for an extra layer of security. For over 65 years, Securian Canada has been giving Canadians the confidence to face life’s uncertainties. Guided by integrity and rooted in community, Securian Canada insures more than 3 million customers coast to coast.

Quick facts about the Canadian big insurance industry:

• There are roughly 29 million Canadians with life coverage, with $5.3T in total coverage.
• Insurers paid out $14.3B in life insurance benefits: $8.8B in death benefits and $5.5B to living policyholders as dividends, cash surrenders or disability benefits.
• The life insurance industry in Canada is expected to have an annual growth rate of 5% from 2023-2027.

There are 48 life insurance companies in Canada, with an additional 16 subsidiaries and affiliates, according to the Canadian Life & health insurance Association's (CLHIA) 2023 report.

Feel more confident in your life insurance decision by choosing a company that can fulfill its promises. Here are 3 tips for reviewing the financial strength and stability of your life insurance provider:

1. Credit ratings: A peek at ratings from A.M. Best, Better Business Bureau, and Standard & Poor’s for an idea on a company's ability to fulfill its financial promises.
2. Customer reviews: Scour through customer reviews and expert analyses, looking for hints at the company’s customer service and reliability.
3. Regulatory standing: Check with Canada’s insurance regulators to see if the company has a good track record. This can tell you a lot about their business practices.

Armed with this information, you’ll pick a company that’s not just promising but also proven. It’s all about making sure your family’s future is in the right hands.

66% of life insurance is sold through group plans; 34% is sold as individual policies, says CLHIA.

Most Canadians have individual term life insurance coverage, meaning they buy a term life insurance policy just for themselves or their family.

A group life insurance policy, like you get through work, covers many people under one contract.

Here's the breakdown of the most commonly purchased life insurance products, calculated by the value of total policies in force in Canada:

PolicyMe sells term life insurance that's simple, affordable and reliable life insurance. Get a quick life insurance quote and then apply online in 20 minutes or less (on average, for eligible applicants).

Choosing the best life insurance company is crucial for your peace of mind and financial security. Here are some reasons why you might consider coverage from large corporate insurance companies.

Large insurance companies tend to be financially stable. They have substantial resources and a diverse customer base, which lets them withstand economic fluctuations and unforeseen events. This stability means that they can meet their financial obligations, like paying claims promptly and efficiently.

You can research financial stability by looking up Canadian life insurance companies on AM Best, the largest credit rating agency in the world that specializes in insurance.

Example: Canadian Premier Life Insurance Company, was rated ‘A’ (Excellent) by credit rating agency AM Best. Securian Canada is the brand name used by Canadian Premier Life Insurance Company.

Large life insurance companies, such as a big bank, typically offers a wide range of coverage options to suit different needs.

This can mean larger coverage amounts, more add-ons to choose from like child coverage, or the option to bundle with related products like disability or critical illness insurance. Some companies such as Manulife offer unique products like Synergy that roll life, disability and critical illness coverage into one policy.

Big insurance companies can also serve as a one-stop shop where you can get car insurance, home insurance, or business insurance too. Think any of the big banks, or insurers like Co-operators.‍

Large insurance companies often have a long history and established reputation within the industry. Their track record speaks volumes about their reliability and customer service. That said, you should always do your own research, read customer reviews and look up their Better Business Bureau rating.

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When it comes to choosing the best life insurance, you may want to consider a smaller insurance company for a variety of reasons, such as:

Smaller Canadian life insurance companies often prioritize providing personalized service to their customers. Since they have fewer clients compared to larger companies, they can give you more individual attention. This means you may receive more tailored advice and assistance in selecting a policy that fits your specific needs and financial situation.‍

Smaller insurance companies may offer more competitive life insurance premiums compared to their larger counterparts. They often have lower overhead costs, which can result in lower life insurance costs for you. This affordability can be especially beneficial if you're on a tight budget or looking for cost-effective options.

‍Smaller life insurance companies may be more flexible when it comes to policy customization. They are often open to adapting their coverage options to accommodate unique circumstances or specific requirements. This flexibility can be advantageous if you have specific preferences or need a policy tailored to your individual circumstances.‍

Dealing with a smaller insurance company can make communication easier and more straightforward. Since they have fewer customers, you may find it easier to reach a representative when you have questions or need assistance. This direct line of communication can enhance your overall experience and provide a greater sense of accessibility.‍

Some smaller Canadian life insurance companies specialize in serving niche markets or specific demographics. For example, they may focus on providing coverage for individuals with unique health conditions or those in high-risk professions. If you fall into one of these categories, a smaller company with niche expertise may better understand your circumstances and offer more tailored coverage options.

Before making a decision, evaluate your needs and preferences to determine if a smaller insurer aligns with your goals and provides the coverage and service you require.

• Affordable life insurance premiums than comparable term life policies
• 10% couples discount in the first year
• $10,000 in free child coverage, for each child
• Most eligible applicants can apply online in 20 minutes or less
• Claims process includes a personal concierge

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In Canada, the insurance industry is closely regulated to ensure consumer protection. If an insurance company faces financial difficulties and is unable to meet its obligations, there are safeguards in place to help policyholders like you.

• ‍Assuris Coverage: Assuris is a not-for-profit organization that provides additional protection to policyholders when their insurance company fails. Assuris protects the policyholders' benefits, including death benefits, disability benefits, and certain annuity benefits. Their coverage applies to a wide range of life insurance policies, segregated funds, and annuities. The coverage provided by Assuris helps ensure that policyholders continue to receive the benefits they are entitled to, even if their insurance company goes out of business.‍
• Seek Legal Advice: If your insurance company goes out of business, and you have concerns about the handling of claims or the protection of your rights, it may be advisable to seek legal advice. A lawyer specializing in insurance matters can help you understand your options and rights, and guide you through any potential legal proceedings.

To protect yourself proactively:

• ‍Research Insurance Companies: Before purchasing insurance, it's essential to research and choose a reputable Canadian insurance company. Look for well-established insurers with a solid financial track record and positive customer reviews. This reduces the risk of dealing with a financially unstable company.‍
• Review Insurance Policies Regularly: Stay vigilant by reviewing your insurance policies periodically. Ensure that the coverage is still suitable for your needs and that the insurer remains financially stable. If you have any concerns or questions, reach out to your insurance agent or company directly for clarification.

For some Canadians, it's important to consider not just a company's financial stability, but also their social and ethical practices. Look beyond their financials—assess their commitment to social responsibility and ethical behaviour. This reveals their respect for the environment, people, and communities.

Here are 4 things to look out for:

1. Sustainability reports: Many companies publish sustainability reports that outline their environmental efforts and social initiatives. These documents can provide a look at how they are reducing their carbon footprint, using renewable energy, and supporting sustainable business practices.
2. Community engagement: Look for information on how the company supports local communities. Do they donate, volunteer, or sponsor events? This info is usually showcased on their websites and in annual reports.
3. Business practices: Investigate the company’s approach to ethical issues. This includes their governance structures, employee relations, and how they handle customer complaints. Transparent companies will disclose how they make decisions and handle challenges.
4. Awards & recognition: Check if the company has been recognized with awards for their corporate social responsibility efforts. Awards from reputable organizations can be a strong indicator of a company's commitment to CSR and ethical practices.

Sun Life has one of the biggest payout options in Canada. Their SunTerm and SunSpectrum Term policies offer coverage up to $25M, and their permanent life insurance policies can also go up to $25M if you apply with an advisor (not available online).

Here's a complete list of all major life insurance companies in Canada:

• Established in 1869, offering life insurance and annuity products.
• Known for its financial stability and strong customer service.
• Offers a range of customizable life insurance policies to meet individual needs.

• A leading provider of health and life insurance in the United States.
• Known for its diverse range of insurance products and services.
• Offers comprehensive life insurance solutions with flexible coverage options.

• A global insurance company with a strong presence in North America.
• Known for its innovative life insurance products and investment solutions.
• Offers a wide range of retirement and protection products to meet customers' financial goals.

• A subsidiary of Allstate Insurance Company, one of the largest insurers in North America.
• Known for its reliable life insurance products and excellent customer service.
• Offers customizable life insurance policies to provide financial protection for individuals and families.

• Specializes in providing insurance products and services for banks and financial institutions.
• Known for its expertise in creditor insurance and debt protection solutions.
• Offers life insurance products tailored to meet the unique needs of banks and their customers.

• Provides a range of health and life insurance solutions.
• Known for its competitive rates and efficient claims processing.
• Offers individual and group life insurance options with flexible coverage and benefit choices.

• Founded in 1951, primarily serving labor unions, credit unions, and associations.
• Known for its commitment to protecting working families with affordable life insurance.
• Offers a range of life insurance products with additional benefits and riders.

• A Canadian-based insurance company with a history dating back to 1903.
• Known for its bilingual services and community involvement.
• Offers a variety of life insurance products, including permanent life insurance and term coverage options.

• An international insurance company specializing in health and life insurance.
• Known for its global coverage and assistance services.
• Offers a range of life insurance plans with international benefits and support.

• A Canadian financial services provider offering a wide range of financial products.
• Known for its cooperative business model and customer-focused approach.
• Offers comprehensive life insurance solutions with flexible options and additional benefits.

• A subsidiary of the Bank of Montreal (BMO), one of the largest banks in Canada.
• Known for its financial strength and stability.
• Offers a range of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance.

• An insurance company specializing in annuity products.
• Known for its expertise in providing retirement income solutions.
• Offers annuities that provide guaranteed income for individuals during their retirement years.

• One of Canada's oldest and largest life insurance companies, established in 1847.
• Known for its strong financial ratings and stability.
• Offers a wide range of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance.

• Specializes in simplified issue and no-medical-exam life insurance policies.
• Known for its quick and easy application process.
• Offers affordable life insurance coverage with simplified underwriting requirements.

• One of Canada's major banks offering a range of financial services, including life insurance.
• Known for its trusted brand and extensive branch network.
• Offers life insurance products as part of its comprehensive financial solutions for individuals and families.
• Known for its guaranteed issue life insurance product.

• Offers a variety of life insurance products tailored to Canadian residents.
• Known for its competitive rates and flexible coverage options.
• Provides comprehensive life insurance solutions with additional benefits and riders.

• A subsidiary of Canadian Tire Corporation, a well-known retail company in Canada.
• Known for its loyalty and rewards programs.
• Offers life insurance products as part of its financial services portfolio.

• A Canadian insurance company offering various insurance products including car insurance.
• Known for its commitment to customer service and personalized solutions.
• Offers life insurance coverage with flexible options and tailored benefits.

• A subsidiary of Chubb Limited, a global insurance company.
• Known for its expertise in providing high-net-worth individuals with customized insurance solutions.
• Offers life insurance products with comprehensive coverage and personalized service.

• Part of Cigna Corporation, a global health services organization.
• Known for its expertise in health and wellness solutions.
• Offers life insurance products with a focus on integrating health and lifestyle benefits.

• A leading provider of supplemental insurance products.
• Known for its accident, critical illness, and disability insurance coverage.
• Offers life insurance products that complement its supplemental insurance offerings.

• A Canadian insurance company offering various life insurance products.
• Known for its competitive rates and customer-focused approach.
• Provides comprehensive life insurance coverage with flexible options.

• Also known as CGLIC, it is a subsidiary of Cigna Corporation.
• Known for its expertise in providing group life insurance solutions.
• Offers group life insurance products with customizable features and benefits.

• Part of The Co-operators Group Limited, a Canadian insurance and financial services co-operative.
• Known for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
• Wide variety of products on offer, including auto insurance.
• Offers life insurance products with a focus on serving co-operative and credit union members.

• An online insurance agency offering various life insurance options.
• Known for its user-friendly digital platform and simplified application process.
• Provides affordable life insurance coverage with instant quotes and convenient online purchasing.

• A subsidiary of Desjardins Group, one of the largest cooperative financial groups in Canada.
• Known for its comprehensive life insurance and wealth management solutions.
• Offers a wide range of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance.

• Established in 1923, one of Canada's oldest life insurance companies.
• Known for its financial strength and stability.
• Offers a variety of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and critical illness insurance.

• A Canadian-based life insurance company with a history dating back to 1920.
• Known for its focus on individual life insurance and wealth accumulation products.
• Offers innovative life insurance solutions, such as participating whole life and universal life insurance.

• A Canadian insurance company offering a wide range of insurance products, including life insurance.
• Known for its competitive rates and customer-centric approach.
• Provides customizable life insurance coverage with options for individuals and families.

• A fraternal benefit society operating in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
• Known for its commitment to the well-being of its members and communities.
• Offers life insurance products with unique member benefits and a focus on social responsibility.

• A leading provider of health and health and dental insurance plans in Canada.
• Known for its innovative approach to health and wellness solutions.
• Offers life insurance products that integrate health and lifestyle benefits for comprehensive coverage.

• A Canadian insurance company with a focus on health and life insurance.
• Known for its simplified underwriting process and quick policy issuance.
• Offers a range of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and critical illness insurance.

• One of the largest insurance and wealth management groups in Canada.
• Known for its diverse range of financial products and services.
• Offers comprehensive life insurance solutions, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance.

• Formerly known as Transamerica Life Canada, a subsidiary of Ivari Canada Holdings Inc.
• Known for its expertise in individual life insurance and wealth accumulation solutions.
• Offers a variety of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance, with flexible options and additional benefits.

• A leading provider of annuities and life insurance in the United States.
• Known for its strong financial ratings and stability.
• Offers a range of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance, with a focus on retirement planning.

• A subsidiary of Cigna Corporation, a global health services organization.
• Known for its expertise in providing group life insurance solutions.
• Offers group life insurance products with flexible coverage options and value-added services.

• A Canadian insurance company specializing in travel insurance.
• Known for its comprehensive coverage and assistance services for travelers.
• Offers travel insurance products that include emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation/interruption, and baggage protection.

• One of the largest insurance and financial services providers in Canada.
• Known for its strong brand recognition and global presence.
• Offers a wide range of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance, with extensive investment options.

• A subsidiary of Manulife Financial Corporation, offering a variety of insurance and financial products.
• Known for its financial strength and customer-centric approach.
• Offers individual life insurance products with flexible options and additional benefits, such as critical illness and disability insurance.

• Specializes in providing insurance solutions to physicians and their families in Canada.
• Known for its understanding of the unique needs and challenges of medical professionals.
• Offers tailored life insurance products and financial services for physicians.

• A Canadian health services organization providing health and life insurance solutions.
• Known for its integrated approach to health and wellness.
• Offers life insurance products with a focus on integrating health and lifestyle benefits for comprehensive coverage.

• One of the largest life insurance companies in the United States.
• Known for its strong brand recognition and diverse range of insurance and financial products.
• Offers a variety of life insurance solutions, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance, with options for individuals, families, and businesses.

• A subsidiary of National Bank of Canada, one of the largest banks in the country.
• Known for its financial strength and stability.
• Offers a range of life insurance products, including term life insurance, whole life, and universal life insurance, with a focus on serving National Bank customers.

• One of the largest and oldest mutual life insurance companies in the United States.
• Known for its long history of financial strength and commitment to policyholders.
• Offers a wide range of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and variable universal life insurance, with a focus on providing comprehensive coverage and financial protection.

• A subsidiary of Nassau Financial Group, an insurance and financial services organization.
• Known for its expertise in providing life insurance solutions to individuals and businesses.
• Offers a variety of life insurance products, including term life insurance, whole life, and universal life insurance, with a focus on customized coverage options.

• A digital life insurance platform based in Canada.
• Known for its user-friendly online application process and simplified underwriting, it is the best life insurance company for low cost premiums.
• Offers term life insurance products with competitive rates and a streamlined purchasing experience.

• A subsidiary of Primerica, a leading financial services company.
• Known for its focus on middle-income families and providing affordable life insurance solutions.
• Offers term life insurance products with a simplified underwriting process and a wide range of coverage options.

• A subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), one of the largest banks in Canada.
• Known for its financial strength, extensive banking network and wealth management services.
• Offers a range of life insurance products, including term life insurance, whole life, and universal life insurance, with a focus on integrating insurance solutions with RBC's broader financial services.

• Established in 1887, Reliable Life is a Canadian life insurance company.
• Known for its long-standing presence and experience in the insurance industry.
• Offers a range of life insurance products, including term life insurance and simplified issue plans, with a focus on providing reliable and affordable coverage.

• A subsidiary of Scotiabank, one of Canada's largest banks.
• Known for its financial strength and stability.
• Offers a variety of life insurance products, including term life insurance, whole life, and universal life insurance, with a focus on meeting the financial protection needs of Scotiabank customers.

• A Canadian fraternal benefit society providing insurance and financial services.
• Known for its values-based approach and commitment to its members.
• Offers life insurance products with unique member benefits and a focus on community support and charitable giving.

• One of the largest life insurance companies in Canada.
• Known for its global presence and extensive range of insurance and investment solutions.
• Offers a comprehensive portfolio of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance, with a focus on financial planning and wealth accumulation.
• Offers one of the best whole life insurance products for cash value in Canada.

• A subsidiary of TD Bank Group, one of the largest banks in Canada.
• Known for its customer-centric approach and strong brand reputation.
• Offers a range of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and critical illness insurance, with a focus on providing personalized solutions to TD Bank customers.

• A multinational life insurance company operating in various countries.
• Known for its diverse range of insurance products and international coverage options.
• Offers life insurance products tailored to the needs of individuals and families living abroad or seeking global coverage.

• A subsidiary of CUNA Mutual Group, a leading provider of financial services to credit unions.
• Known for its expertise in serving credit union members and their families.
• Offers life insurance products with simplified underwriting and competitive rates through credit unions in Canada.

• A Canadian mutual life insurance company with a focus on individual and group insurance.
• Known for its commitment to customer satisfaction and personalized service.
• Offers life insurance products that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals, families, and businesses.

• A Canadian life insurance company with a long history dating back to 1869.
• Known for its strong financial position and customer-centric approach.
• Offers a range of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance, with a focus on providing reliable protection and financial security.

• A U.S.-based insurance company offering life insurance and supplemental health coverage.
• Known for its specialized products and focus on specific markets, such as senior citizens and individuals with specific health conditions.
• Offers life insurance products designed to meet the unique needs of its target customer segments.

• A Canadian life insurance company specializing in viatical settlements.
• Known for its expertise in purchasing life insurance policies from individuals who are terminally ill or have a shortened life expectancy.
• Offers financial solutions through viatical settlements, providing individuals with immediate cash for their life insurance policies.

• A subsidiary of The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, one of the largest property and casualty insurers in Canada.
• Known for its financial strength and long history of serving customers' insurance needs.
• Offers a variety of life insurance products, including term, whole life, and universal life insurance, with a focus on providing flexible coverage options and exceptional customer service.

* Great-West Life and London Life merged with Canada Life in 2019 to form The Canada Life Assurance Company.

—Standard Life Assurance Company became part of Manulife in 2015. CAA Life Insurance is underwritten by Manulife.

Canada Life is the oldest life insurance company in Canada. Nearly 200 years of experience exist between the three companies that make up today's organization: The Great-West Life Assurance Company, London Life Insurance Company and The Canada Life Assurance Company.

The four biggest life insurance companies in Canada are Manulife, Canada Life, Sun Life and Desjardins. This is based on the amount of premiums they bring year-over-year. Looking at their market presence is one method you could use to determine who the biggest life insurance companies in Canada are.

To effectively compare life insurance policies across Canadian companies, scrutinize the coverage details to understand what's included, like death and terminal illness benefits. Check that the premiums fit your budget long-term and review the policy terms for flexibility around renewals. It’s critical to consider the insurer's financial health to ensure they can meet future claims. Customer reviews and ratings can also offer insights into the company's service quality and claims processing

Want to learn more about other life insurance options? Here are more reviews of Canadian life insurance companies:

• Joint life insurance Canada
• Best life insurance in Canada
• Best no medical life insurance companies
• Best bank owned life insurance
• Best term life insurance in Canada
• Best whole life insurance in Canada

Sources: 

1: https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/

ca/news/life-insurance/revealed—canadas-
10-largest-life-insurance-providers-in-
2022-417657.aspx

2: ‎http://clhia.uberflip.com/i/1508207-canadian-life-and-health
-insurance-facts-2023-edition

3: https://assuris.ca/how-am-i-protected/list-of-assuris-members/

4: ‎https://www.globaldata.com/store/report/canada-life-

insurance-market-analysis/