Considerations Before Buying Life Insurance

There’s much to consider before deciding on what type of life insurance is best for you and your loved ones. This decision requires careful thought and consideration, as the right policy can play a crucial role in safeguarding your family's future and meeting your financial goals. Before diving in head-first, taking a step back and evaluating what you need from life insurance is essential. Here is a short list of things to consider before buying life insurance.

It isn’t always obvious when to start a new life insurance policy and when to change an old one. While every family’s answer may differ, a few key life milestones make it especially important to update your policy. For example, suppose you have a spouse, children, or anyone who relies on your income. In that case, life insurance helps ensure their financial security if something happens to you. However, perhaps the best time to sign up for life insurance is when you’re young and healthy. Premiums are lower when you're younger and in good health, so getting coverage sooner can save you money in the long run. Just don’t wait until it’s too late!

The type of life insurance someone needs often depends on their current circumstances and long-term financial goals. The most common types of life insurance are Term Life Insurance and Permanent Life Insurance, which last for different amounts of time, and each has its advantages. Term Life Insurance provides coverage for a specific term, such as 10, 20, or 30 years, and generally offers lower premiums than permanent life insurance. Permanent Life Insurance provides lifelong coverage as long as premiums are paid, and it may build cash value over time.

To determine the specific type of life insurance and coverage amount you need:

Consider your financial situation by reviewing your income, expenses, savings, and debts.
Think about who relies on your financial support, such as a spouse, children, aging parents, or other dependents.
Seek advice from a licensed agent or insurance professional who can help you select life insurance that aligns with your unique circumstances and goals.

You can learn more about the different types of life insurance on our website.

Single people can still benefit from life insurance, but whether they need it depends on their financial goals. Even if an individual doesn't have a spouse or children, they may still have other dependents. When choosing a beneficiary, a single person can choose their parents, siblings, or other family members who rely on their support. Beneficiaries don’t even have to be relatives. You can also list close friends and colleagues. Your chosen beneficiary could even be a trust or an entity. You may use life insurance to leave a legacy or make a substantial donation to charitable organizations or important causes upon your passing.

Life insurance is typically purchased to provide financial protection for dependents and loved ones in the event of the policyholder's death. If you have no dependents, the need for life insurance may be less immediate. However, there are situations where having life insurance can still be beneficial, even if you have no dependents.

For example, funerals, preserving your estate, and related expenses can be costly. Life insurance can cover these costs, so your loved ones don’t bear the financial burden. Beyond that, life insurance can be a way to leave a financial legacy for loved ones, even if they are not dependents. You can name friends, family members, or charitable organizations as beneficiaries to provide for their financial well-being.

Life insurance coverage through your employer can provide valuable financial protection, but some families may benefit from an additional policy outside of work. Consider your current coverage amount to decide how much more life insurance you’ll need. Employer-provided life insurance policies often offer coverage based on your current salary. This coverage may not be sufficient if you have significant financial obligations or want to leave a more substantial financial legacy for your loved ones. Furthermore, you may lose this coverage if you change jobs or retire. A separate life insurance policy ensures you can maintain coverage regardless of your employment status.