Your Life Insurance: How Does It Work?
life insurance is exactly what the name suggests an insurance policy on your life. You buy a policy from an authorized agent, paying the company a monthly, quarterly, or annual premium. In return, the insurance company agrees to pay a set amount of money after your death. The proceeds of a life insurance policy go to your designated beneficiaries, usually in a single lump sum payment. If the policy does not designate beneficiaries, then the payment is made to your estate.
There are two kinds of life insurance policies: Term insurance policies, also called protection policies. Term insurance is temporary, for a set term of years, providing your family with coverage for a specific number of years for a set premium (although premiums typically go up as you get older).
Term policies have no cash value. Basically, you buy protection in the event of death and nothing else.
Investment policies: these are commonly called permanent life insurance. The objective with permanent life insurance policies is to grow capital with the payment of either regular or single premiums. Permanent life insurance is also known as whole life insurance. This type of life insurance provides life time coverage as long as the policy premiums are paid. The premiums are fixed, and unlike term insurance, there is guaranteed cash value. The insured can access this cash for emergencies, retirement or other expenses.
The kind of life insurance you buy generally depends on the goals you want your coverage to accomplish. Most people fin that term life suits their needs, making sure their bills are paid and their heirs receive some assistance after their deaths. Others want a reliable source of cash accumulating as they pay their premiums. Speak with a qualified agent to decide which kind of insurance is best for you.
The type of life insurance policy you need will depend on why you are purchasing the insurance and the goals you want the insurance to accomplish. Most people find that a simple term life insurance policy suits their needs, while others want to make sure their bills are paid and their heirs receive a settlement after their deaths. You can discuss your needs with a qualified life insurance provider in order to determine what policy is best for you.
A qualified life insurance agent can answer all your questions. He or she can help you customize coverage to meet the needs of your family.