Things to Know About Life Insurance Policies
Life insurance is a crucial financial product designed to provide security and peace of mind. Knabusch Insurance provides life insurance in Dundee, MI, Monroe, MI, Temperance, MI, Newport, MI, Ida, MI and surrounding areas.
These are key points to understand about life insurance policies:
- Types of Life Insurance
Term Life Insurance: Provides coverage for a specified period (e.g., 10, 20, or 30 years). It’s generally less expensive but has no cash value component.
Whole Life Insurance: Offers lifetime coverage and includes a savings component, accumulating cash value over time. Premiums are higher compared to term insurance.
Universal Life Insurance: Similar to whole life but with more flexibility in premium payments and death benefits. It also accumulates cash value based on market performance.
Variable Life Insurance: Includes investment options for the cash value component, which can grow based on market performance but also carries higher risk.
- Premiums
Premiums are the payments made to keep the policy active. They can be fixed or adjustable depending on the policy type.
Factors affecting premiums include age, health, lifestyle, and the coverage amount.
- Beneficiaries
Policyholders designate beneficiaries who will receive the death benefit upon the insured’s death. Multiple beneficiaries can be named, and the benefit can be split in specified proportions.
- Death Benefit
The death benefit is the amount paid to beneficiaries upon the insured’s death. It is generally tax-free and can be used for any purpose, such as paying off debts, funding education, or covering living expenses.
- Riders
Riders are additional benefits that can be added to a policy, often for an extra cost. Common riders include:
Accidental Death Benefit Rider: Provides extra payout if death results from an accident.
Waiver of Premium Rider: Waives premium payments if the insured becomes disabled.
Critical Illness Rider: Pays a lump sum if the insured is diagnosed with a specified critical illness.
- Cash Value Component
Whole, universal, and variable life insurance policies accumulate cash value, which can be borrowed against or withdrawn. However, loans or withdrawals may reduce the death benefit.
- Underwriting Process
The underwriting process involves assessing the applicant’s risk factors such as health, lifestyle, and occupation. This determines eligibility and premium rates.
- Policy Loans and Withdrawals
Policyholders can borrow against the cash value of their life insurance, but it must be repaid with interest. Unpaid loans can reduce the death benefit.
- Policy Lapse
If premiums are not paid, the policy can lapse, leading to loss of coverage. Some policies offer a grace period for missed payments.
Understanding these aspects can help individuals choose the right life insurance policy to meet their financial goals and protect their loved ones.
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