Life insurance policies protect your survivors from some adverse financial repercussions after your death. They are a safety device that can be useful to posses. But, it is not an easy matter to decide amongst the different products available.
The 2 main types are the term and the permanent life insurance categories. If death benefit protection is your primary concern, a term policy provides one at less cost than others. This life insurance is bought for a period of time, which can be renewed at a fixed or unfixed premium. There is no accrued cash value this type of insurance. Premiums can increase over time; but, with a level term the policy would lock in the premium for the period. A declining balance term policy can be used as a mortgage insurance with amortization matching the mortgage principal. After mortgage is paid in full, the policy expires. Term insurance may be convertible to permanent insurance. If you prefer this option, you may want to consider one convertible without requirement of a medical exam.
A permanent life insurance covers a person for life and builds up cash value. Access to cash value is available; and the policy holder can borrow or withdraw some of the cash value accumulated without loss of its death benefit. Classifications within this category are known as variable, universal and whole life insurance and the premiums tend to be higher than for term insurance.
In whole life insurance, there is permanent protection with a component for savings. As long as premiums are paid, the premium will be at level rate. Part of the premium has a cash value that accrues in an exact amount based on a predetermined schedule. Future values can change if a loan is made or there is a withdrawal. Deductions will decrease cash value and its death benefit.
A universal life insurance offers the potential for earnings with some risk. The policy can be flexible on the premium and the cash value with options to also change the value. Normally, there is a certain fixed interest rate. This rate is based on stock market performance. It can change; but, not fall below a set floor. Higher fees and interest rate sensitivity are part of its drawbacks and premiums may increase with any declines the interest rate.
With variable life insurance the cash value can be invested with choice amongst the investment options. The value will rise or decline based on investment performance. Volatility in the stock market can result in premium changes. The ability to afford the premium changes should be factored in to the decision of whether this type of insurance is suitable. Failure to afford the premium payments means lapse in payment. The universal variable life insurance has the biggest risk and reward profile in this policy variation type.
You should take into account the costs, risks and potential restrictions on withdrawal of money, when considering the options available. Loans, withdrawals, and surrenders can adversely affect death benefits. There may also be tax consequences and lapsing of the policy as a result. Any changes in a personal situation means there can be a change in insurance needs.
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