Term Life Insurance: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Have you been considering buying life insurance, but feel overwhelmed by the process? With so many options and terms to understand, it can be a daunting task.

To help you navigate through this process, we have put together a step-by-step guide to buying term life insurance. From understanding your needs to comparing quotes, we cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in and learn how to buy term life insurance.

What is term life insurance?

When it comes to protecting your family’s financial security, there are few investments more important than life insurance. Term life insurance is a type of life policy with coverage for a specific period of time. This is usually between 10 and 30 years. It pays out a cash lump sum if the insured person passes away during that time.

It’s often considered cheaper than other types of cover, such as whole-of-life insurance. This is in effect for a certain period, lasting until the insured person reaches the end of the policy.

1. Understand your needs and budget

Understanding your needs and budget is essential when it comes to buying term life insurance. Know what type of coverage you need, how long you need it, and how much you can afford to pay. This can help ensure the policy meets your requirements.

Be realistic about the level of coverage you require. Ideally, the death benefit should be large enough to cover your family’s needs.

Consider finances such as:

• Living costs such as rent and household utilities
• Outstanding debts, such as loans or mortgages
• Health care and educational expenses
• Future plans like retirement or university tuition for children.

2. Choose your policy type

There are 3 types of term life cover to choose from:

• Level term – As the standard type of term cover, both the cost of the policy and death benefit remains fixed. This way, your premiums won’t rise even as you get older.
• Decreasing term – Ideal for those who want to cover their mortgage or other loan repayments. The death benefit reduces throughout the policy, whilst you make repayments on your mortgage.
• Increasing term – the policy has a feature wherein, the death benefit increases each year. This can help protect against inflation and rising costs of living.

Different life insurance companies offer distinct features, so shop around and compare the various options available. Be sure to read the fine print and ask questions if anything is unclear.

When comparing policies, look at factors such as:

• Types of coverage, including any additional benefits offered.
• Premiums — what are the monthly costs, and is there an option to pay higher premiums for more coverage?
• Flexibility — can you adjust the policy over time or cancel it without penalty?
• Claims process — how long does it take to receive payments, and are there any restrictions?
• Customer reviews — look for reviews from other customers to ensure the company is reliable and trustworthy.

3. Compare providers

Different companies offer distinct features and premiums, so it’s important to shop around and compare the various options available.

An insurance broker can also be a great resource for finding the right provider, comparing policies, and understanding the claims process.

It’s also worth looking for benefits offered by the provider. Some insurers offer extra benefits, such as medical check-ups, travel insurance, or discounted gym memberships. These can be valuable if you’re looking for a comprehensive life insurance policy that provides more than just death benefits.

4. Go through the underwriting process

The underwriting process begins with filling out an application form. You may also be asked to provide additional documents, such as proof of identity or a doctor’s report.

During this process, the insurer assesses your health and lifestyle to determine the level of risk and decides on your premiums. Taking time to go through the process and provide as much information as possible, may help you get a better deal.

You should be open and honest with your insurer, disclosing any pre-existing conditions – no matter how serious. If not, your insurance provider may void your policy or withhold a payout to your family when you die.

5. Select your beneficiaries

Now it’s time to choose who you want to receive the death benefit. This is an important decision, as it determines who will receive the death benefits in the event of your passing. Therefore, it’s essential to choose those you trust, and will use the money wisely.

It’s also possible to designate more than one recipient and set up a trust to manage the funds.

6. Pay your premiums

Perhaps the most straightforward aspect to life insurance. If you stop making payments, your policy may be cancelled, and your family won’t receive any death benefits. Make payments on time, so that you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones are protected.

7. Renew or convert your policy as needed

As life circumstances change, you may need to adjust your coverage to ensure that it continues to meet your needs. Perhaps you’ve got married recently, had children or changed jobs.

If you’re reaching the end of your policy term, you might want to convert to permanent cover. This will provide coverage for your entire life, rather than the limited coverage offered by a term life policy.

Remember, term life insurance is a temporary solution, so review your coverage and make adjustments as needed.