For those who want temporary life insurance, level term life is one of the most popular options. Length of policy terms may be 10, 15, 20, or 30 years. There are two reasons for choosing level term life insurance.
1. Non-Variable Rate
There are no surprises or cost of living increases as the years go by. Premiums are set to remain the same for the entire period on the life insurance coverage. The coverage does take into account the age of the person over the policy term. The longer the coverage term, the higher the premium cost. A policy lasting only 10 years will cost much less in monthly or yearly premiums than a 30-year term.
2. Guaranteed Renewal
As with any term life insurance, level term is designed to provide a web of protection for the insured’s family in case the insured dies during the time coverage is in effect. Generally, it is expected that investments made during the period of coverage will furnish a nest egg that will pay any necessary costs after the term is completed. That would mean that life insurance coverage after the term would no longer be needed.
Although it costs more to continue the coverage, it is at least possible to get life insurance at an advanced age, even if health problems develop during the original term of the coverage. Most level term life insurance offers a guaranteed rate of renewal, although evidence may be required to determine insurability for renewal. A renewal insurability clause is usually only enforced if the insured’s health has deteriorated during the policy term.
Top Choice in Term Insurance
Each year, level term life insurance is the number one choice in temporary insurance. In 2003, level term amounted to 97% of all term insurance policies sold. The cost is so much less than permanent insurance, which is why some people consider it the obvious choice for affordable life insurance.
Escalating costs for food, shelter, and other necessities have led to a decline in life insurance coverage for many families. USA Today estimates that as many as 11 million households in the United States do not have life insurance coverage on the primary wage earner. In fact, just slightly more than 40% of all households have life insurance covering the wage earner.
Term life insurance policies often have an option to convert the coverage to a whole life policy at the term’s end. This can be a good option for someone with a preferred term life rating class who is later diagnosed with a health condition that would make it difficult if not impossible for them to qualify for a new policy.
Be sure to ask your agent about the specific clauses and conditions of a level term life policy when obtaining coverage quotes. It is important to note, however, that the conversion option may not be available for the entire policy term; instead it may be an option for a specified number of years or until the insured reaches a specified age.
My Insurance Expert will help you find term life insurance that fits all of your individual needs. The world of life insurance doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right advisor you can give your family the protection they need and have peace of mind.