How Does Term Life Insurance Work?

Term life insurance is a type of life insurance that provides coverage for a specific period of time, typically between 10 and 30 years. The policyholder pays a set premium for the coverage, and if the insured person dies within the term of the policy, the death benefit is paid to the designated beneficiaries. If the insured person does not die within the term of the policy, the coverage expires and there is no death benefit paid.

When purchasing a term life insurance policy, the policyholder chooses the term length and the amount of coverage they want. The premium is based on factors such as the age and health of the insured person, the term length, and the amount of coverage. As the policyholder gets older, the premium may increase, and once the term is over, the policyholder can either renew the policy at a higher premium or purchase a new policy.

Term life insurance is generally the most affordable type of life insurance, making it a popular choice for people who want to provide financial protection for a specific period of time, such as the years their children will be in college. It’s also popular for people who have short term needs such as a loan or mortgage to cover.

It is important to note that term life insurance policies do not accumulate cash value and do not have a savings component like permanent life insurance policies such as whole life or universal life.

It’s advisable to consult with an insurance agent or financial advisor to understand your options and find a policy that fits your specific needs. They can help you determine how much coverage you need and how long you need it for, and can also help you compare different policies and rates.