Life insurance protects families if something should happen to the main breadwinner. Although discussing the possibility of losing a family member seems grim, it’s an important part of a family’s financial planning. Life insurance provides financial flexibility in difficult times, and can prevent the remaining family’s financial devestation if something happens.
Drop bad habits and get into good shape prior to opening a life insurance policy. If you are in good physical health, you are likely to get a better rate from your provider. Smoking, high cholesterol, blood pressure, as well as depression, can drive up your rates more than you would think.
You may be able to save a significant amount of money on your life insurance by paying your premiums annually instead of monthly. Insurance companies often have extra fees for customers who pay every month instead of just once a year. Ask your insurer if you can switch to an annual payment.
If it is possible, you should pay your insurance premiums yearly instead of monthly. By choosing to pay the premium annually, you can save a bit of money.
You should have your life insurance policy amended as things change in your life. Some examples of things that you may want to report to your life insurance company is if you have new children, an increase in the amount of debt that you have accumulated or if you have gotten a divorce. You can typically change information over the phone.
One tip when purchasing life insurance, always tell the truth about your health issues. Even if you are able to make it through the medical tests and reviews done by the insurance company and get the policy issued, it is not a good idea. Insurance companies investigate claims and if they suspect your information is not valid, the claim will not be paid and your heirs could be tied up in court for years.
If you are considering purchasing whole life insurance, keep in mind that this insurance is more expensive, but it will cover your entire life span. If you live to be 100 years of age, you will still have coverage to benefit your family left behind after your death. A term life policy is effective only for a determined amount of time and will expire eventually. Keep in mind, a term life policy is usually less expensive and more affordable than a whole-life insurance policy.
To save money on your life insurance policy, understand the difference between term insurance and permanent life insurance. Term insurance should cover most financial need and debt, and it may not be necessary for you to purchase an expensive permanent whole life policy. Purchase what you currently need, and then make adjustments if your needs change.
Don’t be tempted to lie or hold back information on your application for life insurance. If you have medical issues or other possible rate hikers, your company will investigate any time you file a large claim. This means they will find the hidden truth and can revoke your policy.
Life insurance rates have dropped considerably, over the last few years. If you subscribed to a life insurance more than ten years ago, you are probably paying too much. Make sure that your insurance company has upgraded your policy to current rates. If not, switch to a different insurance company.
Beware of universal life policies. The cash value of these insurances can decline over time, and what your family will be paid out will not reflect at all what you invested in this insurance. You should get a whole life policy, which guarantees your premiums and how much the insurance is going to pay out.
The best time to buy whole-life insurance is when you are young and healthy. The policy will accumulate in value over the years, and rates will generally be lower than for people older with health problems. For all ages, never lie about your medical conditions because insurance agencies will check your records before it pays on any claim. To avoid higher premiums and new medical questions, be sure to renew your policy each year.
You have no control over most factors that are used to determine your life insurance premiums, but there are a few things you can do. For instance, you can do your best to reach a healthier weight, or quit smoking and drinking. You can also move to a safer area and improve your driving record.
If you are about to get married, you will probably have to redefine your life insurance policy. You now have to worry about the future of your spouse, and perhaps of a family. Go see your insurance agent with your spouse and establish a new policy that reflects your changing needs.
All parents want to provide for their children in the event that they should pass away. Having the right life insurance will provide this protection, and often for quite an affordable price.
