The premiums you pay are determined by your age and health at the time you purchase the policy. They are usually lower if you are younger. You can keep the policy for as long as you pay all the monthly payments. Locking in rates early can be a big deal. This will save you money down the road. You have the option to choose which payment option is best for you.
Let's take a look at how each type covers you to help you understand the difference between term and whole life.
Your application materials and medical records will be reviewed by the insurer before determining how much coverage you need. After you sign the policy paperwork, and pay your first premium you are covered for life.
You can choose how much money to leave your loved one, also known as the death benefit.
An insurer will often give you quotes based on whether your premiums are paid until you turn 65 or 99 when you purchase whole-life insurance. People buy whole life policies that they pay monthly, or annually, until they die. (Usually called paid up after 99).
A whole-life insurance policy provides for your family and can be used to build equity in your home.
If your business is a family-owned one and you want to provide liquid assets for the company or family.
It is more affordable to purchase a term-life policy for everyone. You get the same coverage, and the same protection, but it costs less. Whole life isn't as profitable as traditional investment vehicles like a 401k (or IRA), because it doesn't provide as high a return. An insurance agent can help clarify the pros and cons of each type of insurance.
The policy's death benefit works in the same way as a life insurance policy. As long as you maintain your policy premiums and the death benefit amount, your beneficiaries will receive a lump sum tax-free. Additional cash value will also be paid by higher-end whole-life insurance policies.
Your whole life insurance quote will be higher if the insured is older. This is due to your declining life expectancy. Rates depend on when the policy will be paid up. That is, how much premiums you've paid.
