
You can sell your life insurance policy, also known as a life settlement, at any age, but it's typically most beneficial for those 65 and older.
Most life insurance policies can be sold, regardless of age, but the process and benefits vary greatly depending on the policy type and the seller's age.
The age at which you can sell your policy is largely determined by the policy's face value and your age at the time of sale.
Typically, the older you are, the higher the policy's value, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Eligibility and Process
To sell your life insurance policy, you must be at least 65 years old, as most policies have a surrender charge that lasts until this age.
The process typically begins with a phone call to your insurance company to inquire about the surrender value of your policy.
You'll need to provide your policy number and personal details to the company representative, who will then guide you through the process.

Most policies have a surrender charge that can range from 2-10% of the policy's cash value, which is deducted from the payout.
You can also consider selling your policy to a third-party buyer, such as a life settlement company, which can provide a lump sum payment.
However, be aware that these companies often take a significant portion of the payout as their fee.
The insurance company will typically send you a check for the surrender value of your policy, minus any outstanding loans or fees.
You'll need to sign the check and return it to the company to finalize the process.
Why Sell Insurance?
Selling your life insurance policy can be a smart financial move, especially if you can't afford to keep paying the premiums. Some people sell their policy because they simply can't afford to keep paying the premiums.
You can use the funds from a life settlement to cover large, unexpected expenses, like medical costs or long-term care. This financial flexibility can be a lifesaver in tough times.
A life settlement can also provide a quick influx of funds that opens up the possibility of traveling and making new memories with family, making the most of your retirement years.
Selling Insurance in Canada

You can sell your life insurance policy in Canada, but it's not a straightforward process.
Only some regions allow it, such as Ontario where a private member's bill is pushing to open life insurance to the secondary market.
New Brunswick and Nova Scotia have rescinded the ability to sell a life insurance policy, and the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA) is still lobbying against it, citing concerns about financial abuse.
The legality of selling your life insurance policy in Canada will depend on the conditions of your policy and your insurance company.
Pros and Cons
Selling your life insurance policy can have its benefits. The process is straightforward and you'll receive your funds quickly, usually within a few weeks.
You'll also get to stop paying monthly premiums, as the company purchasing your policy will take over that responsibility. This can be a huge weight off your shoulders.
One of the biggest advantages of selling your life insurance policy is that the cash payouts are tax-free and non-regulated. You'll receive more money than if you simply surrendered your policy for its cash value.

You can use the funds for medical costs, including treatments, care, and quality-of-life benefits. The funds can ultimately be used however you'd like.
Here are some of the key pros of selling your life insurance policy at a glance:
- Funds are tax-free and non-regulated
- Receive more money than surrendering the policy
- Use funds for medical costs or any other purpose
- Stop paying monthly premiums
- Funds are available quickly, usually within a few weeks
- Peace of mind, alleviating financial stress
Is It Worth It?
If you no longer need a life insurance policy, selling it to a life settlement provider can be a valuable option. Selling a life insurance policy can offer financial freedom.
It's especially worth considering if you want to unlock cash benefits during your lifetime. For many, selling a life insurance policy to a life settlement provider can offer financial freedom, especially if you no longer need the policy.
Pros & Cons
Selling your life insurance policy can be a complex decision, but understanding the pros and cons can help you make an informed choice.
The process is straightforward, and you'll receive your funds quickly, usually within a few weeks.

One of the biggest advantages of selling your life insurance policy is that you'll no longer have to pay monthly premiums. This can be a significant relief, especially if you're struggling financially.
You'll also receive more money than if you simply surrender your policy for its cash value. This can be a game-changer for those who need access to funds quickly.
Tax-free and non-regulated cash payouts are another benefit of selling your life insurance policy. This means you can use the funds however you like, without worrying about taxes or regulations.
You can use the funds for medical costs, including treatments, care, and quality-of-life benefits. This can be a huge relief for those who are struggling with medical expenses.
However, it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks of selling your life insurance policy. Your beneficiaries will no longer receive the face value of your policy as a death benefit when you pass away.
Additionally, if you have creditors, they could make claims on your viatical settlement payout amount. This is why it's crucial to take care of any outstanding debts beforehand.
Here are some key points to consider:
- The process is straightforward and funds are received quickly.
- Monthly premiums become the responsibility of the company purchasing your policy.
- Cash payouts are tax-free and non-regulated.
- You'll receive more money than surrendering your policy for its cash value.
- You can use the funds for medical costs or other expenses.
- Your beneficiaries will no longer receive the face value of your policy as a death benefit.
- Outstanding debts may be claimed by creditors.
How to Transfer Insurance

You can transfer your life insurance policy to a life settlement provider, who will give you a cash settlement of 40-70% of the policy's face value.
To get started, you'll need to complete paperwork, which is a straightforward process.
The amount you receive will depend on the policy's face value, and it's worth noting that viatical settlements for seriously ill individuals are tax-free.
You can contact a life settlement provider directly to initiate the process and cash out on your policy.
Through Settlement
Selling your life insurance policy through a settlement is an option for healthy seniors aged 75 and older.
You can expect a payout that's typically more than the policy's cash surrender value.
However, the exact figures will depend on the policy's premiums, the policy amount, and your life expectancy.
With a life settlement, you'll have to pay taxes because the payout is considered income.
Earnings from Life Insurance
You can earn a significant amount from selling your life insurance policy, typically ranging from 40-70% of the policy's face value. This amount can be a substantial financial boost, depending on the value of your policy.

The tax implications of selling your policy vary depending on the type of settlement, but viatical settlements for seriously ill individuals are tax-free. This can be a major advantage for those in need of immediate financial assistance.
To get a cash settlement, you'll need to contact a life settlement provider, who will guide you through the process of completing the necessary paperwork.
How Settlements Work
Selling your life insurance policy can provide a lump sum of money to cover expenses, but the payment will be less than the full amount of the cash benefit, typically ranging from 10 percent to 25 percent.
You'll receive a payment, and in return, an individual or company becomes the new policy owner, responsible for paying all premiums and receiving the full payment upon your death.
The new policy owner takes over all responsibilities, including paying premiums, and your loved ones can no longer benefit from the policy.
You'll no longer own the policy, and your intended beneficiaries will not receive payment upon your passing.
The new policy owner will receive the full payment upon your death, and you'll no longer be responsible for paying premiums.
What's My Task?

To sell your life insurance policy, you'll need to reach out to a life settlement company and go through a verification process. This involves reviewing your offer and completing the necessary paperwork.
As the policy's viator, or seller, you'll receive a lump-sum cash settlement valued at more than the policy but less than the end-of-life payout amount. This means you'll get a significant amount of money, but not the full payout.
You'll need to decide how to spend the funds, as they're completely yours to use as you see fit. You can use them to pay off debts, cover living expenses, or invest in your future.
Once you've sold your policy, the provider who bought it will take over, paying the monthly premiums and eventually receiving the policy benefit after your passing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to sell a life insurance policy?
To sell a life insurance policy, you typically need to be at least 65 years old, but some companies may have different requirements. Age is just one factor, and your health and other factors can also affect your ability to sell a policy.
How much can you sell a $100,000 life insurance policy for?
A $100,000 life insurance policy can be sold for 10-25% of its value, typically around 20%, depending on age, health, and premiums. The actual payout may vary, so it's best to consult a life settlement expert for a personalized quote.
Sources
- https://www.lsa-llc.com/at-what-age-can-you-sell-your-life-insurance-policy/
- https://www.americanlifefund.com/life-settlement/life-insurance/sell/
- https://www.aflac.com/resources/life-insurance/can-you-cash-out-a-term-life-insurance-policy.aspx
- https://herbstlawgroup.com/selling-your-life-insurance-policy-to-help-cover-expenses/
- https://www.mychoice.ca/blog/selling-your-life-insurance-policy-in-canada/
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