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What Is the Difference Between Term & Whole Life Insurance?

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What Is the Difference Between Term & Whole Life Insurance?

In life, it never hurts to be prepared. It's why life insurance exists, and why millions of Americans purchase these policies every year. However, with the variety of insurance products on the market, it might be difficult to pinpoint which one is best for your needs.

One of the most common dilemmas when it comes to life insurance is whether to purchase a term or whole life insurance policy. We will examine these insurance types to help you understand the difference between term and whole life insurance — and when each policy type might make sense.

Term Life Insurance

Many people opt for term life insurance because it's generally less expensive than whole life insurance. Why? Because this type of insurance provides coverage for a specified period, usually a 10-, 15-, 20- or 30-year term length. Term life insurance provides a death benefit, meaning your beneficiary will receive a payout in the event of your death — should it occur while the policy is in force. Most term products, however, offer optional riders and options that could allow you to renew or convert your policy.

These policies may be more expensive as you get older, and you may not get back any of the premiums you've paid when the policy expires. Some term policies offer the option to extend the policy term. However, you have to make this request within a certain time frame, which is usually specified in your insurance policy.

One of the biggest benefits of term life insurance is its flexibility and affordability, especially if your need for coverage is not permanent. Most of these policies could be converted to whole life insurance, and you may be able to find policies with very affordable monthly premiums, depending on your age and health.

Whole Life Insurance

Unlike term life, whole life insurance covers you for your entire life and provides a death benefit and a cash value accumulation, as long as you maintain the policy. You could take out a loan against the cash value of a whole life policy, but it's important to note that unrepaid loans will reduce the death benefit.

Because of the death benefit, cash value accumulation and lifelong coverage whole life insurance offers, premiums for these policies are typically higher than those for the same amount of term life insurance. However, the benefits offered by whole life insurance could do a lot to improve a family's financial security. Aside from the death benefit, taking out a loan against the cash value of the policy could make all the difference if you become temporarily disabled and are unable to work, if you have a financial emergency — or if there is a big life expense (like college tuition) that you may need to cover.

Which One Could Be Best for Me?

Once you understand the difference between term and whole life insurance, consider taking a moment to think about your life stage, lifestyle, needs and goals. People consider different policies for different reasons. Before you decide on an insurance policy, you might want to think about several things, including:

  • Your age & health: A whole life policy could be more expensive if you're older or aren't in good health.
  • Your family's financial needs: If you want to insure the financial future of your family in the event you are no longer able, a whole life policy could be a worthwhile option. A whole life policy could help support your loved ones upon your death. If your needs are only temporary, you may want to consider a term life insurance policy.
  • Your current expenses: If you don't have enough flexibility in your budget to take on a considerable monthly premium — along with your current debts and monthly bills — you might opt for term life insurance rather than whole life insurance.
  • Your future expenses: The cash value accumulation a whole life policy offers could give you the financial flexibility you want. Also, if you're worried about how your family will pay for your final expenses, either policy could be a good fit because they both offer a death benefit.
  • Your children: If you have young children and your family primarily relies on your income, buying a more affordable term life policy could be a good option. A term life policy could provide additional financial security while your children still live at home and rely on you financially.

Life insurance could be an important purchase for you at any life stage. If you don't have life insurance — or don't have enough coverage — cost doesn't necessarily have to be a barrier to getting this financial protection. There are many life insurance plans available.

Consider speaking with a financial representative about your needs, as they could help you decide on the right policy. Comparing plans, researching your options and speaking to a financial representative could help you find a policy that best meets your family's financial needs today — and tomorrow.

Information provided is general and educational in nature, and all products or services discussed may not be provided by Western & Southern Financial Group or its member companies (“the Company”). The information is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal or tax advice. The Company does not provide legal or tax advice. Laws of a specific state or laws relevant to a particular situation may affect the applicability, accuracy, or completeness of this information. Federal and state laws and regulations are complex and are subject to change. The Company makes no warranties with regard to the information or results obtained by its use. The Company disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or reliance on, the information. Consult an attorney or tax advisor regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

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