Q: What are the advantages of Term Life Insurance?
One of the biggest advantages of term life insurance is its affordability. Insurance companies can offer lower premium rates for term insurance coverage than for permanent policies because the odds of death during the policy term favor the insurance company. Term life insurance policies are also a great way to maintain flexibility: you can adjust the policy according to your changing needs. If you realize more permanent coverage is a better option for you, most in-force term life insurance policies can be converted to permanent life insurance.
Other advantages of term life insurance:
- It can be used to supplement life insurance coverage provided by your employer
- Policies provide a fixed death benefit for a time period that you choose up-front
- In addition to the specified "face amount" death benefit, your policy may include a return of premium option
- Some policies also offer other coverage options including critical illness and disability insurance protection
Of course, there are a lot of policies and policy options to choose from. When you're considering purchasing a term life insurance policy, you'll want to keep your financial situation in mind and select coverage that best meets your needs.
Q: Do I qualify for Term Life Insurance?
When you apply for any type of life insurance, you need to answer some basic questions about your health and lifestyle. Most people who are generally healthy will qualify for coverage. You may still qualify for term life insurance if you have some existing health problems, although your premium will likely be higher.
For some policies, you do not need to submit evidence of insurability beyond the application questionnaire, meaning you shouldn't need a physical examination to qualify for coverage.
Q: When should I buy Term Life Insurance?
The best time to buy term life insurance is now. Life insurance is intended to provide a cash death benefit to your named beneficiary (or beneficiaries) after you die. Of course, none of us can know when we'll die, or when our health situation might change for the worse. Because qualifying for term life insurance is based on your health at the time of application, it just makes sense to buy coverage now. Hopefully, your term life insurance policy will never be needed. If it is, your loved ones will appreciate the fact that you took the time for insurance planning when you did.
Q: Can I afford Term Life Insurance?
Because it is intended to provide coverage only for a specific amount of time, term life insurance is generally the least expensive type of life insurance you can buy. Your specific premium will be based on your age at the time you purchase the policy, as well as on your overall health. Non-smokers in good health will typically pay low premiums.