Term life insurance, also called pure life insurance or term life insurance, provides a guaranteed death benefit for the person covered if that person dies within a set period. The policyholder can choose to renew the policy at a later date, to convert it to permanent coverage, or to let the term-life insurance policy lapse.
The following are sample rates of a 20-year policy for a 35-year-old male non-smoker with a Preferred health rating - in other words, somebody with very good health or minor health conditions.
Because term policies provide coverage for a predetermined duration, life insurance rates tend to be more affordable for whole life than term. If you are unable to live out the term, the policy will expire and your beneficiaries won't be able to receive the death benefits. The insurer is therefore less likely to take on this risk. Whole-life insurance premiums, in comparison, are more expensive as they pay out no matter what happens to you. Term life is what all of the best life insurers sell.
You still have options if you aren't eligible for traditional or simplified-issue life insurance. A guaranteed issue policy in life insurance might be a good option.
Some term policies may also be converted to permanent life insurance policies without the need for a medical exam. This includes whole or universal life insurance. Permanent life policies can be more costly once converted.
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners(NAIC), certain term policies can include a return of any premium features. If a death benefit isn't paid out before the end of the term you'll get back some or all of the premiums paid. This option is more expensive.
Term life policies are available individually or as part of a group insurance plan through an employer, civic, religious, or other organization.
Term life provides temporary coverage and is less expensive that permanent life insurance. It's a great option for young families in need of short-term coverage. By purchasing a policy to cover the years that your family depends on your financial support and decrease your coverage when your kids become financially independent, you could do this.
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, some term policies may also include a return of premium features. This means that you will get back any or all of your premiums if the death benefit doesn't pay out before the term ends. This is however a more costly option.
Either way, it's always better to buy sooner rather than later: Depending on your age, you add anywhere from 4.5% to 9.2% to your premium every year you wait to purchase a policy. We can help you compare life insurance quotes from top-rated companies to find the best approach for you - at your lowest price.
Most term life insurance policies have level premiums, meaning the payments remain the same throughout the policy term. However, some policies may have increasing premiums as you age.
How much term life insurance coverage do you need? It depends on your financial situation, income, debts, family needs, and future financial obligations. A good rule of thumb is to have coverage that's 5-10 times your annual income.