
Life insurance is a crucial aspect of financial planning, providing a safety net for loved ones in the event of your passing. Term life insurance is a popular option, offering coverage for a specified period, typically 10 to 30 years.
There are several types of life insurance to consider, each with its own unique characteristics. Whole life insurance, for example, provides a guaranteed death benefit and a cash value component that grows over time.
Permanent life insurance, which includes whole life and universal life insurance, offers lifetime coverage as long as premiums are paid. It's a good option for those who want to ensure their loved ones are taken care of regardless of when they pass away.
Term life insurance, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that provides coverage for a set period. It's often used to cover mortgage payments or other debts.
Worth a look: Pure Life Annuity Settlement Option
Types of Life Insurance
Life insurance is a crucial aspect of financial planning, and understanding the different types can help you make an informed decision. There are various types of life insurance, each with its own unique features and benefits.

Term life insurance is a popular option, offering coverage for a specified period, usually ranging from 10 to 30 years. It's often chosen for its affordability and flexibility, with premiums that can be adjusted or cancelled as needed.
Whole life insurance, on the other hand, provides permanent coverage for your entire lifetime, as long as premiums are paid. It also comes with a cash value component that can be borrowed against or used to pay premiums.
Universal life insurance is another type of permanent policy that allows you to adjust premiums and death benefits as needed. It also has a cash value component that earns interest based on market rates, making it a good fit for those who want flexibility and potentially higher returns.
Here are the main types of life insurance:
- Term life insurance: coverage for a specified period (e.g. 10-30 years)
- Whole life insurance: permanent coverage with a cash value component
- Universal life insurance: permanent coverage with adjustable premiums and death benefits, and a cash value component that earns interest based on market rates
What Are the Types?
Types of Life Insurance can be a bit overwhelming, but let's break it down. There are several types of life insurance, each with its own unique features and benefits.
Whole life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance that provides coverage for your entire lifetime, paying your benefit no matter when you pass away. This type of policy also includes a savings component that builds cash value over time.
Permanent life insurance, also known as whole life insurance, offers coverage for the rest of your life, as long as you pay your premiums. It comes with a fixed death benefit and a fixed monthly premium.
One of the benefits of permanent life insurance is that it provides a predictable and low-maintenance way to cover your funeral expenses and other final costs. It also gives you access to money during your life through its cash value component.
There are six basic variations of traditional permanent insurance, including non-participating whole life, participating whole life, indeterminate premium whole life, economatic whole life, limited payment whole life, and single premium whole life.
Here are some key features of whole life insurance:
- Level premium and face amount during your entire life
- Fixed costs and generally low out-of-pocket premium payments
- Cash value component that accrues interest over time
- Ability to withdraw from or borrow against the cash value account
- Death benefit paid out to your beneficiary upon your passing
Other types of life insurance include term life insurance, universal life insurance, variable life insurance, and final expense life insurance.
Joint Life

Joint Life insurance policies can be a cost-effective option for couples or families, with premiums significantly lower than policies that insure only one person.
The death benefit is typically payable at the death of the last of the insureds, which can provide financial security for years to come.
Joint Life and Survivor Insurance is a type of policy that provides coverage for two or more persons, with the death benefit payable at the death of the last of the insureds.
This can be a more affordable option, especially for couples who are young and healthy, as the probability of having to pay a death claim is lower.
Joint Life Insurance, on the other hand, pays out at the first death, which can be a more straightforward option for those who want to ensure their loved ones are taken care of immediately.
However, premiums for Joint Life Insurance are significantly higher than for policies that insure one person, due to the higher probability of having to pay a death claim.
Discover more: Does Term Insurance Cover Accidental Death
Comparing Life Insurance Policies

Comparing life insurance policies can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. There are several types of life insurance policies available, each with its own unique features and benefits.
Term life insurance offers specific term coverage, typically ranging from 1 to 30 years. This type of policy is best for individuals who want coverage for a limited period or when long-term insurance isn't affordable. For example, you might choose a 20-year term life policy to cover your mortgage payments.
Whole life insurance, on the other hand, provides guaranteed lifetime coverage. This type of policy is often used for lifetime financial planning and estate preservation. Whole life insurance also builds cash value over time, which can be borrowed against or withdrawn.
Universal life insurance offers long-term coverage with flexible premiums and a cash value component. This type of policy is ideal for individuals who want to grow their cash value over time and have control over their investment choices.
A fresh viewpoint: What Type of Life Insurance Are Credit Policies Issued as
Variable universal life insurance combines long-term coverage with investment opportunities. This type of policy allows you to invest your cash value in a portfolio of sub-accounts, which can grow or decline in value based on market performance.
Here's a comparison chart to help you visualize the differences between these policies:
By considering your needs and understanding the features of each policy type, you can make an informed decision and choose the best life insurance policy for your situation.
Life Insurance Plans
Life insurance plans come in various forms to suit different needs and goals. You can choose from term life, whole life, universal life, and final expense life insurance plans.
Term life policies are the most affordable option, but they have a set expiration date. This means you'll need to renew or switch to a new policy when the term ends. Whole life policies, on the other hand, offer a fixed premium and death benefit for your entire life.
Take a look at this: Term Insurance Policies
If you're looking for flexibility, universal life policies might be the way to go. They allow you to adjust your premiums and death benefit, and some even offer a cash value component. But keep in mind that these policies can be more complex and expensive than term life policies.
Here's a brief summary of the main types of life insurance plans:
Ultimately, the right life insurance plan for you will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. Be sure to shop around and compare different options to find the best fit.
Modified Plan
A modified life plan is similar to whole life insurance, but with a lower premium for the first few years.
You'll pay a lower premium initially, which can be a big help if you're on a tight budget. This lower premium will help you get started with coverage right away.
However, you'll need to pay a higher premium later on, which can be a bit of a shock. This higher premium is usually higher than the regular whole life premium.
The idea behind a modified life plan is that you'll eventually be able to afford the higher premium, and you'll still have the security of knowing you're covered.
Senior Plans
Senior Plans can be a good option for those who need life insurance but may not qualify for a fully underwritten policy.
These plans, also known as graded death benefit plans, are designed for older applicants and provide minimal whole life coverage without a medical examination.
Eligible applicants can apply for Senior Life Plans between ages 50 and 75.
The maximum issue amount of coverage is $25,000.
These policies are usually more expensive than a fully underwritten policy if the person qualifies as a standard risk.
Senior Life Plans typically provide a return of premium or minimum graded benefits if death occurs during a specified period, usually the first two or three policy years.
You might enjoy: Graded Death Benefit Life Insurance Policy
Non-Traditional Life Insurance
If you're looking for life insurance options beyond the standard policy, there are several non-traditional types to consider.
Supplemental life insurance can provide additional coverage to fill gaps in your company's group life policy, and can be purchased from your employer or a private insurance company for an extra premium.
Additional reading: A Life Insurance Company Sells a Term Insurance Policy

You can also opt for survivorship life insurance, which covers two people on a single policy and pays a death benefit only after both policyholders have passed away.
Decreasing term life insurance offers a death benefit that decreases over time, making the policy more affordable and a good option for those with changing financial needs.
AD&D insurance pays out only in the event of an accident causing death or serious injuries such as the loss of limbs, sight, or paralysis.
If this caught your attention, see: Which Type of Life Insurance Policy Pays the Face Amount
Life Insurance Comparison
Life insurance comparison is a crucial step in choosing the right policy for you. You may be good for people who need temporary coverage, such as those with young families or large mortgages.
Term life insurance is a good option for people between 18 and 65 years old, offering coverage for a specific term (10, 15, 20, or 30 years) with no cash value. The death benefit amount starts at $100,000.
Recommended read: Should I Get Term Life Insurance
If you're looking for lifetime coverage, whole life insurance is a good choice, offering guaranteed lifetime coverage with fixed premiums and a cash value component. Whole life insurance is best for people between 18 and 65 years old, with a death benefit amount starting at $50,000.
Here's a comparison chart of the different types of life insurance:
Cost
Let's talk about the cost of life insurance. It's generally more affordable than people think.
The cost of life insurance varies depending on several factors, including the type of policy and the age, health, and lifestyle of the insured.
Term life coverage of $1 million can cost as little as $18 a month for younger clients, which is a pretty low price to pay for peace of mind.
Recommended read: Average Cost of Life Insurance with Long Term Care Rider
Compare Options
If you're looking for a life insurance policy that fits your needs, you have several options to consider.
Term life insurance is a good choice for people who want coverage for a specific period, such as 10, 15, or 20 years. This type of insurance is best for people between the ages of 18 and 65.
Whole life insurance, on the other hand, provides guaranteed lifetime coverage and builds cash value over time. It's usually more expensive than term life insurance, but can be a good option for people who want to leave a legacy or pay off debts.
Universal life insurance offers long-term coverage and flexible premiums, making it a good choice for people who want to adjust their payments as their financial situation changes.
Variable universal life insurance also offers long-term coverage, but with the added risk of market fluctuations affecting the cash value of the policy.
Here's a comparison chart to help you make a decision:
Remember to consider your individual needs and circumstances when choosing a life insurance policy.
Life Insurance Basics
Life insurance is a type of insurance that pays out a sum of money, known as a death benefit, to your beneficiaries if you pass away.
The death benefit can be used to cover funeral expenses, pay off outstanding debts, and provide financial support to your loved ones.

Term life insurance is a type of life insurance that provides coverage for a specific period of time, usually 10 to 30 years.
You can choose from various term lengths to match your financial needs, such as 10, 20, or 30 years.
Whole life insurance, on the other hand, provides coverage for your entire lifetime, as long as premiums are paid.
With whole life insurance, you also build cash value over time, which you can borrow against or use to supplement your retirement income.
Universal life insurance combines a death benefit with a savings component, allowing you to grow your cash value over time.
The cash value grows based on the performance of the investment portfolio, which can be tailored to your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Variable life insurance is a type of universal life insurance that allows you to invest your cash value in various investment options, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds.
This type of insurance provides a death benefit and allows you to grow your cash value, but it also comes with investment risks.
Indexed universal life insurance is a type of universal life insurance that allows you to earn interest based on the performance of a specific stock market index, such as the S&P 500.
Explore further: Term 30 Life Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is $100,000 in life insurance a month?
For a $100,000 life insurance policy, monthly premiums range from $15 to $88, depending on age, health, and other factors. Learn how your age and lifestyle affect your life insurance costs.
Sources
- https://www.progressive.com/answers/life-insurance-types/
- https://www.investopedia.com/types-of-life-insurance-plans-and-how-to-decide-which-one-is-right-for-you-7482251
- https://www.newyorklife.com/articles/types-of-life-insurance-policies
- https://www.newyorklife.com/articles/compare-term-life-insurance
- https://www.dfs.ny.gov/consumers/life_insurance/types_of_policies
Featured Images: pexels.com