Life Insurance

First, you’ll need to determine the type of life insurance you want to buy, with the most common types being term life insurance, whole life insurance, and universal life insurance. Each has its own way of paying out, and the plan you choose may be determined by your individual needs.

Term life insurance

With term life insurance, you pay regular premiums for a set period and the policy only pays out if you pass away during this period. You may want to consider a term life policy if you need a large amount of coverage but have a small budget, or if you need to have life insurance for a specific time period. It’s important to know that premiums typically increase the older you get and that certain policies may require a medical examination.

Whole life insurance

With whole life insurance, there’s no set period. You usually pay regular premiums until you pass away, at which point the policy pays out. Sometimes you have the option to take a lump sum back while you are still alive, but this will reduce the amount paid out when you pass away. This is the most commonly held type of life insurance, as it provides both a savings account as well as a death benefit.

Universal life insurance

Universal life insurance works in a similar way to whole life insurance, but you have more flexibility about taking money early. You may even borrow money and repay it later; although, if there’s any loan outstanding when you die, the policy’s payout can be significantly affected.

The premiums you pay depend heavily on your age and medical history, along with the amount you want the policy to payout. Some policies may also require a medical examination to qualify. Your situation is unique, and the life insurance policy you choose should fit your specific needs.