Life Insurance
There are many kinds of life insurance, but they generally fall into two categories: term insurance and permanent insurance.
Term Insurance
Term insurance is designed to meet temporary needs. It provides protection for a specific period of time (the "term") and generally pays a benefit only if you die during the term. This type of insurance often makes sense when you have a need for coverage that will disappear at a specific point in time. For instance, you may decide that you only need coverage until your children graduate from college or a particular debt is paid off, such as your mortgage.
Permanent Insurance
In contrast, permanent insurance provides lifelong protection. As long as you pay the premiums, and no loans, withdrawals or surrenders are taken, the full face amount will be paid. Because it is designed to last a lifetime, permanent life insurance accumulates cash value and is priced for you to keep over a long period of time.
It's impossible to say which type of life insurance is better because the kind of coverage that's right for you depends on your unique circumstances and financial goals.
But remember, the best way to figure out the amount and type of life insurance that makes sense for your particular situation is to meet with a qualified life insurance professional.
Is there someone in your family who would suffer financially if you were to pass away? A spouse, your children even a small business you may have? If you answered "yes," chances are, you need a life insurance policy. Life insurance is an essential part of financial planning.
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Types of Life Insurance
There are three types of life insurance, Term, Whole (Straight) Life and Universal Life Insurance.
Term Life Insurance is the most basic. You pay an annual premium for the "term" of the policy (typically 20 years). If you die within the 20 years, your beneficiary will receive the indicated amount of the policy, tax-free.
Whole Life Insurance is exactly the name. It will stay in effect for your entire life. Premiums, higher than Term Life, are paid based on the age of the insured at the time of purchase. Premiums will not typically increase with the age of the insured. They will typically be paid until death unless a limited pay policy is in force. These may be paid up in 10 years, 20 years or at age 65.
Universal Life Insurance is a form of permanent life insurance that offers flexible premiums and a tax-deferred investment opportunity. Premiums are to be paid with extra money on top in order to "overfund the policy." This will give the policy a cash value that will gain interest over time, allowing the insured to borrow from the policy, or subsidize remaining premiums.