Life insurance with living benefits, also known as living benefits or accelerated death benefits, is a type of life insurance policy that provides financial benefits to the policyholder while they are still alive, in addition to the traditional death benefit provided to beneficiaries upon the insured’s death.

Here are some key features of life insurance with living benefits:

  1. Critical Illness Coverage: Living benefits typically include coverage for critical illnesses such as cancer, heart attack, stroke, organ transplant, and other serious medical conditions. If the insured is diagnosed with a covered critical illness, they can receive a portion of the death benefit while they are still alive to help cover medical expenses, loss of income, or other financial needs.
  2. Chronic Illness Coverage: Some policies also offer benefits for chronic illnesses that require long-term care, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, or severe disabilities. In such cases, the insured may receive regular payments from the policy to cover the costs of care.
  3. Terminal Illness Coverage: If the insured is diagnosed with a terminal illness and has a life expectancy typically ranging from 12 to 24 months, they may be eligible to receive a portion of the death benefit early to help cover medical expenses, hospice care, or other end-of-life costs.
  4. Flexibility: Life insurance with living benefits offers flexibility in how the policyholder can use the accelerated benefits. They can use the funds to cover medical bills, replace lost income, pay off debts, or even take a dream vacation.
  5. Impact on Death Benefit: It’s important to note that accessing living benefits may reduce the death benefit available to beneficiaries upon the insured’s death. However, many policies offer options to maintain some level of death benefit even after living benefits are paid out.
  6. Premiums and Eligibility: Policies with living benefits may have higher premiums compared to traditional life insurance policies. Additionally, eligibility for living benefits may depend on factors such as the severity of the illness, the policy’s terms and conditions, and any waiting periods specified in the policy.

Overall, life insurance with living benefits provides policyholders with added financial security and peace of mind by offering protection against the financial burdens associated with serious illnesses or injuries during their lifetime, not just after their passing. It can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive financial plan, especially for those concerned about potential healthcare costs or loss of income due to illness or disability.

Types of Life Insurance With Living Benefits

There are several types of life insurance policies that offer living benefits, providing financial assistance to the policyholder while they are still alive. Here are some common types:

  1. Term Life Insurance with Living Benefits: Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific period, such as 10, 20, or 30 years. Some term life insurance policies offer living benefits riders that allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit if they are diagnosed with a qualifying critical, chronic, or terminal illness during the policy term.
  2. Permanent Life Insurance with Living Benefits: Permanent life insurance, such as whole life or universal life, offers coverage for the insured’s entire life as long as premiums are paid. These policies often include built-in living benefits that allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit if they meet certain criteria for critical, chronic, or terminal illness.
  3. Universal Life Insurance with Long-Term Care Riders: Some universal life insurance policies offer optional long-term care riders that provide living benefits for policyholders who need assistance with activities of daily living or are confined to a nursing home. These riders allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit to cover long-term care expenses.
  4. Indexed Universal Life Insurance with Chronic Illness Riders: Indexed universal life insurance policies may offer chronic illness riders that provide living benefits for policyholders diagnosed with a chronic illness. These riders allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit to cover the costs of ongoing care and medical expenses associated with the chronic illness.
  5. Variable Universal Life Insurance with Accelerated Death Benefit Riders: Variable universal life insurance policies may offer accelerated death benefit riders that provide living benefits for policyholders diagnosed with a terminal illness or critical illness. These riders allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit to cover medical expenses, hospice care, or other end-of-life costs.
  6. Hybrid Life Insurance and Long-Term Care Policies: Some insurance companies offer hybrid life insurance and long-term care policies that combine the benefits of life insurance with long-term care coverage. These policies typically allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit to cover long-term care expenses if they are unable to perform activities of daily living or require nursing home care.

These are just a few examples of life insurance policies with living benefits. It’s essential to carefully review the terms and features of each policy to understand the specific living benefits offered and how they can provide financial protection for you and your loved ones during your lifetime. Additionally, consult with a qualified insurance agent or financial advisor to determine the most suitable type of life insurance policy based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Term Life Insurance

Term life insurance is a type of life insurance policy that provides coverage for a specific period, or term, typically ranging from 10 to 30 years. If the insured individual dies during the term of the policy, the death benefit is paid out to the beneficiaries named in the policy. Term life insurance is designed to provide financial protection for loved ones in the event of the insured’s death, offering a lump-sum payment to help cover expenses such as mortgage payments, living expenses, education costs, and more.

Here are some key features of term life insurance:

  1. Fixed Premiums: Term life insurance policies typically have fixed premiums throughout the term of the policy. This means that the premium amount remains the same each year, providing predictable costs for the policyholder.
  2. Death Benefit: The death benefit is the amount of money paid out to the beneficiaries upon the insured’s death. The death benefit is typically tax-free and can be used by beneficiaries to cover various expenses or financial obligations.
  3. Term Length: Term life insurance policies are available for different term lengths, such as 10, 15, 20, or 30 years. Policyholders can choose a term length based on their financial needs and obligations. Shorter terms may have lower premiums but provide coverage for a shorter period, while longer terms offer more extended coverage but may have higher premiums.
  4. Renewability and Convertibility: Some term life insurance policies offer the option to renew the policy at the end of the term without undergoing a medical exam, although premiums may increase. Additionally, many term policies offer the option to convert to a permanent life insurance policy, such as whole life or universal life, without undergoing a medical exam. This can be beneficial if the insured’s needs change over time and they want to maintain coverage beyond the initial term.
  5. No Cash Value: Unlike permanent life insurance policies, such as whole life or universal life, term life insurance does not accumulate cash value over time. This means that if the policyholder outlives the term of the policy, no benefits are paid out, and there is no return on premiums paid.
  6. Affordability: Term life insurance is typically more affordable than permanent life insurance, making it an attractive option for individuals and families looking for cost-effective life insurance coverage.

Term life insurance is well-suited for individuals who have temporary financial obligations or dependents who rely on their income for support, such as paying off a mortgage, funding children’s education, or providing income replacement for a spouse. It provides peace of mind knowing that loved ones will be financially protected if the unexpected were to happen during the term of the policy.

Permanent Life Insurance

Permanent life insurance is a type of life insurance policy that provides coverage for the insured’s entire life, as long as premiums are paid. Unlike term life insurance, which provides coverage for a specific term or period, permanent life insurance offers lifelong protection and includes a cash value component that grows over time.

Here are some key features of permanent life insurance:

  1. Lifelong Coverage: Permanent life insurance policies remain in force for the insured’s entire life, as long as premiums are paid. This means that beneficiaries will receive a death benefit whenever the insured passes away, regardless of age, as long as the policy is active.
  2. Cash Value Accumulation: Permanent life insurance policies include a cash value component that accumulates over time. A portion of each premium payment goes towards the cash value, which grows tax-deferred at a guaranteed or variable interest rate, depending on the type of permanent life insurance policy.
  3. Death Benefit: Like term life insurance, permanent life insurance policies provide a death benefit that is paid out to beneficiaries upon the insured’s death. The death benefit is typically tax-free and can be used to cover funeral expenses, outstanding debts, estate taxes, income replacement for dependents, and other financial needs.
  4. Flexibility: Permanent life insurance policies offer flexibility in premium payments and death benefit options. Policyholders can choose to pay premiums for a specified number of years (limited-pay policy) or throughout their lifetime (whole life). They can also adjust the death benefit amount or access the cash value through policy loans or withdrawals for various financial needs.
  5. Policy Loans and Withdrawals: The cash value of permanent life insurance policies can be accessed through policy loans or withdrawals during the insured’s lifetime. Policyholders can borrow against the cash value at a relatively low-interest rate or make withdrawals, which can be tax-free up to the amount paid in premiums. However, unpaid loans and withdrawals may reduce the death benefit or cash value available to beneficiaries.
  6. Variety of Options: There are several types of permanent life insurance policies, including whole life insurance, universal life insurance, and variable life insurance. Each type offers different features, such as level premiums, flexible premiums, investment options, and death benefit flexibility, allowing policyholders to choose a policy that aligns with their financial goals and needs.

Permanent life insurance is suitable for individuals who want lifelong coverage and value the cash accumulation and flexibility features offered by these policies. It can provide financial security for loved ones, estate planning benefits, and potential tax advantages, making it a valuable component of a comprehensive financial plan. However, permanent life insurance policies tend to have higher premiums compared to term life insurance, so it’s essential to carefully consider your financial situation and long-term goals before purchasing a policy. Consulting with a qualified insurance agent or financial advisor can help you determine the most suitable type of permanent life insurance for your needs.

Types of Living Benefit Riders

Living benefit riders are additional features that can be added to a life insurance policy to provide policyholders with financial assistance in the event of a qualifying illness or condition during their lifetime. These riders allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit while they are still alive, helping to cover medical expenses, long-term care costs, or other financial needs. Here are some common types of living benefit riders:

  1. Critical Illness Rider: A critical illness rider provides coverage for specific critical illnesses such as cancer, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and organ transplant. If the insured is diagnosed with a covered critical illness, they can receive a lump-sum payment or periodic payments from the policy’s death benefit to help cover medical expenses, treatment costs, or other financial obligations.
  2. Chronic Illness Rider: A chronic illness rider provides coverage for chronic conditions that require long-term care or assistance with activities of daily living, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, or severe disabilities. If the insured is unable to perform certain activities of daily living or requires long-term care, they can access a portion of the death benefit to cover the costs of care, home healthcare, nursing home care, or other related expenses.
  3. Terminal Illness Rider: A terminal illness rider provides coverage if the insured is diagnosed with a terminal illness and has a life expectancy typically ranging from 12 to 24 months. If the insured meets the criteria for terminal illness, they can receive a lump-sum payment or periodic payments from the policy’s death benefit to help cover end-of-life expenses, hospice care, medical bills, or other financial needs.
  4. Long-Term Care Rider: Some life insurance policies offer a long-term care rider that provides coverage for long-term care expenses, such as nursing home care, assisted living facilities, in-home care, or adult day care services. Policyholders can access a portion of the death benefit to cover these expenses if they are unable to perform two or more activities of daily living or require substantial assistance due to illness, injury, or cognitive impairment.
  5. Accelerated Death Benefit Rider: An accelerated death benefit rider allows policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit if they are diagnosed with a qualifying illness or condition, such as a critical illness, chronic illness, or terminal illness. This rider provides flexibility in how the accelerated benefits can be used, allowing policyholders to cover medical expenses, replace lost income, pay off debts, or pursue other financial needs.

These are some of the common types of living benefit riders available with life insurance policies. The availability and specific features of living benefit riders may vary depending on the insurance company and the type of policy. It’s essential to carefully review the terms, conditions, and limitations of each rider to understand the coverage provided and how it can benefit you and your loved ones in the event of a qualifying illness or condition. Additionally, consulting with a qualified insurance agent or financial advisor can help you determine the most suitable living benefit riders based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Terminal Illness

Terminal illness refers to a medical condition that is expected to lead to the patient’s death within a relatively short period, typically within six months to two years, depending on the specific definition used by healthcare providers and insurance companies. Terminal illnesses are often progressive, meaning they worsen over time and eventually become fatal.

Some common examples of terminal illnesses include advanced stages of cancer, end-stage heart failure, advanced neurological diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and advanced stages of AIDS. However, terminal illness can encompass a wide range of conditions depending on the prognosis and life expectancy.

When someone is diagnosed with a terminal illness, it can have profound emotional, physical, and financial impacts on them and their loved ones. In addition to managing the physical symptoms and medical care associated with the illness, individuals and their families may also need to address end-of-life decisions, emotional support, and financial planning.

From a financial perspective, individuals diagnosed with a terminal illness may face significant medical expenses, including hospital bills, medication costs, hospice care, and other related expenses. Additionally, the loss of income if the individual is unable to work, as well as the potential need for long-term care or assistance, can further strain finances.

In the context of life insurance, many policies include a terminal illness rider or accelerated death benefit rider that allows policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit if they are diagnosed with a terminal illness and have a limited life expectancy, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months. This rider provides policyholders with financial assistance to help cover end-of-life expenses, medical bills, and other financial needs during their remaining time.

It’s important for individuals facing a terminal illness to consider their financial situation carefully and explore all available resources and options for support. This may include reviewing existing insurance policies, seeking financial assistance programs, and consulting with financial advisors or social workers who can provide guidance on managing expenses and planning for the future. Additionally, accessing emotional and psychological support can be crucial for individuals and their families as they navigate this challenging time.

Chronic Illness

A chronic illness is a long-term medical condition that persists over an extended period, typically for three months or more. Unlike acute illnesses, which often have a sudden onset and resolve within a short timeframe, chronic illnesses tend to be persistent and may require ongoing management and treatment to control symptoms and prevent complications.

Chronic illnesses can vary widely in terms of severity, symptoms, and impact on daily life. Some common examples of chronic illnesses include:

  1. Diabetes: A chronic condition characterized by high levels of blood sugar (glucose) resulting from the body’s inability to produce or properly use insulin.
  2. Heart Disease: Various conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
  3. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, that make it difficult to breathe.
  4. Arthritis: A group of conditions that cause inflammation and stiffness in the joints, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
  5. Asthma: A chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
  6. Alzheimer’s Disease: A progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, cognition, and behavior, ultimately leading to severe impairment in daily functioning.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other chronic illnesses that can impact individuals’ health and quality of life.

Living with a chronic illness can present various challenges, including managing symptoms, adhering to treatment plans, coping with limitations in daily activities, and dealing with the emotional and psychological effects of the illness. Chronic illnesses can also incur significant healthcare costs, including expenses for medications, doctor’s visits, hospitalizations, and specialized care.

In the context of life insurance, many policies offer chronic illness riders or accelerated death benefit riders that allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit if they are diagnosed with a chronic illness and require long-term care or assistance with activities of daily living. This rider provides financial support to help cover the costs of ongoing care, medical expenses, and other related expenses associated with the chronic illness.

It’s important for individuals with chronic illnesses to prioritize their health, follow their treatment plans, and seek support from healthcare providers, caregivers, and support networks. Additionally, exploring available resources and options for financial assistance, such as insurance benefits and government programs, can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with managing a chronic illness.

Critical Illness

Critical illness refers to a severe and life-threatening medical condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s health and well-being. These conditions often require intensive medical treatment and may result in long-term disability or even death if left untreated. Critical illnesses are typically characterized by their sudden onset and serious nature, and they may include conditions such as:

  1. Cancer: Various types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma, among others.
  2. Heart Attack: A sudden blockage of blood flow to the heart, leading to damage to the heart muscle and potentially life-threatening complications.
  3. Stroke: A sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain, resulting in brain damage and neurological impairment.
  4. Kidney Failure: A severe decline in kidney function, leading to the accumulation of waste products and toxins in the body.
  5. Organ Transplant: The need for a transplant of a vital organ such as the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, or pancreas due to organ failure or disease.
  6. Major Organ Failure: Failure of one or more major organs, such as the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, or pancreas, due to disease or other factors.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other critical illnesses that can have serious consequences for individuals’ health and quality of life.

Given the significant financial implications associated with critical illnesses, many insurance companies offer critical illness insurance as a standalone policy or as a rider to a life insurance policy. Critical illness insurance provides policyholders with a lump-sum payment if they are diagnosed with a covered critical illness, helping to cover medical expenses, treatment costs, and other financial obligations during their recovery.

The lump-sum payment provided by critical illness insurance can be used to cover various expenses, such as:

  1. Medical Bills: Including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation services.
  2. Income Replacement: If the policyholder is unable to work or experiences a loss of income due to the critical illness.
  3. Living Expenses: Such as mortgage or rent payments, utility bills, groceries, and other daily necessities.
  4. Additional Support: For caregivers, transportation, home modifications, and other related expenses.

Critical illness insurance can provide valuable financial protection and peace of mind for individuals and their families in the event of a serious illness. It helps ensure that policyholders have the financial resources they need to focus on their recovery without worrying about the financial consequences of their illness. However, it’s essential to carefully review the terms, conditions, and coverage limitations of a critical illness insurance policy to understand what is covered and how benefits are paid out.

Long-Term Care

Long-term care (LTC) refers to a range of services and supports designed to help individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or other conditions meet their daily healthcare and personal needs over an extended period. Long-term care services are typically required when individuals are unable to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) independently, such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring, and continence.

Long-term care services can be provided in various settings, including:

  1. Home Care: Assistance provided in the individual’s own home by caregivers, home health aides, or skilled nursing professionals. Home care services may include help with personal care, medication management, meal preparation, housekeeping, and transportation.
  2. Assisted Living Facilities: Residential facilities that provide housing, meals, assistance with ADLs, and support services such as medication management, social activities, and transportation. Assisted living facilities offer a level of care that is less intensive than nursing homes but more supportive than independent living.
  3. Nursing Homes: Facilities that provide round-the-clock nursing care and supervision for individuals who require significant assistance with ADLs, medical care, and rehabilitation services. Nursing homes are suitable for individuals with complex medical needs or those who require skilled nursing care on a long-term basis.
  4. Adult Day Care Centers: Daytime programs that offer supervised activities, socialization, and assistance with ADLs for individuals who require daytime care but do not need 24-hour supervision. Adult day care centers provide respite for caregivers and help individuals remain in their homes for as long as possible.

Long-term care services are often needed by older adults with chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, or arthritis, but they can also be required by younger individuals with disabilities or serious illnesses.

The cost of long-term care can be significant and can vary depending on the type of services needed, the level of care required, and the geographic location. Long-term care services are typically not covered by traditional health insurance or Medicare, except in limited circumstances, so individuals may need to pay for long-term care out of pocket or through other means, such as long-term care insurance, Medicaid, or personal savings.

Long-term care insurance is a type of insurance policy that helps cover the costs of long-term care services and supports. Long-term care insurance policies vary in terms of coverage, benefits, and premiums, so it’s essential to carefully review the policy terms and consider your individual needs and circumstances when selecting a policy.

Planning for long-term care needs is an important aspect of financial and retirement planning, as it helps ensure that individuals and their families have the resources and support necessary to address long-term care needs while preserving financial security and quality of life. Consulting with a financial advisor or long-term care specialist can help individuals develop a comprehensive plan for addressing long-term care needs and protecting their assets.

Disability Waiver of Premium Rider

A Disability Waiver of Premium (DWP) rider is an optional feature that can be added to a life insurance policy. This rider provides financial protection to the policyholder by waiving future premium payments if they become totally disabled and are unable to work due to illness or injury. Essentially, it ensures that the life insurance coverage remains in force even if the policyholder is unable to pay the premiums due to their disability.

Here’s how a Disability Waiver of Premium rider typically works:

  1. Qualifying Disability: The rider typically defines a qualifying disability as a total disability that renders the policyholder unable to perform the duties of their occupation or any occupation, depending on the policy’s terms. The definition of disability may vary between insurance companies, so it’s important to review the specific terms of the rider.
  2. Waiting Period: There is usually a waiting period, also known as an elimination period, before the waiver of premium takes effect. During this waiting period, the policyholder must be disabled for a specified period, such as three or six months, before the premiums are waived.
  3. Proof of Disability: The policyholder is required to provide proof of their disability, typically in the form of medical records and documentation from a healthcare provider. The insurance company will review the documentation to determine if the policyholder meets the criteria for total disability under the terms of the rider.
  4. Premium Waiver: Once the waiting period has elapsed, and the policyholder’s disability is verified, the insurance company will waive future premium payments for the duration of the disability. The policyholder will not be required to pay premiums while they are disabled, ensuring that the life insurance coverage remains in force without interruption.
  5. Coverage Continuation: The life insurance coverage continues as usual during the period of disability, and the death benefit will be paid out to the beneficiaries named in the policy if the insured passes away while the coverage is in force. The waiver of premium does not affect the death benefit or other policy provisions.

Adding a Disability Waiver of Premium rider to a life insurance policy can provide valuable financial protection and peace of mind to the policyholder and their loved ones in the event of a disabling illness or injury. It ensures that the life insurance coverage remains intact, even if the policyholder is unable to work and pay premiums due to their disability. However, it’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the rider, including any exclusions or limitations, to understand how the rider works and what is required to qualify for the premium waiver.

How Much Is Life Insurance With Living Benefits?

The cost of life insurance with living benefits can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type and amount of coverage, the age and health of the insured individual, the insurance company, and the specific features and riders included in the policy. Generally, life insurance policies with living benefits, such as critical illness riders, chronic illness riders, or terminal illness riders, tend to be more expensive than traditional life insurance policies without these features.

Here are some factors that can influence the cost of life insurance with living benefits:

  1. Age of the Insured: Younger individuals typically pay lower premiums for life insurance coverage compared to older individuals. This is because younger individuals are generally considered lower risk by insurance companies.
  2. Health Status: The health of the insured individual plays a significant role in determining the cost of life insurance. Individuals in good health are likely to pay lower premiums, while those with pre-existing medical conditions or higher health risks may face higher premiums or be subject to medical underwriting.
  3. Coverage Amount: The amount of life insurance coverage, also known as the death benefit, directly affects the cost of the policy. Higher coverage amounts result in higher premiums.
  4. Type of Policy: The type of life insurance policy chosen, such as term life insurance or permanent life insurance, can impact the cost. Permanent life insurance policies tend to have higher premiums compared to term life insurance policies, as they offer lifelong coverage and include cash value accumulation.
  5. Riders and Additional Features: Adding living benefits riders, such as critical illness riders, chronic illness riders, or terminal illness riders, to a life insurance policy will increase the cost of the policy. However, these riders provide additional financial protection and benefits in the event of a qualifying illness or condition.
  6. Underwriting Criteria: Insurance companies assess the risk associated with insuring an individual based on various factors, including lifestyle habits, occupation, and family medical history. Individuals who are considered higher risk may face higher premiums or be subject to more stringent underwriting requirements.

It’s essential to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance companies to find the best coverage at a competitive price. Working with an experienced insurance agent or financial advisor can also help you navigate your options and select a life insurance policy with living benefits that meets your needs and budget. Additionally, regularly reviewing your coverage and adjusting it as needed based on changes in your circumstances can help ensure that you have adequate protection in place.

How to Get a Life Insurance Policy With Living Benefits

To get a life insurance policy with living benefits, such as critical illness, chronic illness, or terminal illness riders, you can follow these general steps:

  1. Evaluate Your Needs: Determine your financial goals, coverage needs, and budget. Consider factors such as your age, health status, family situation, financial obligations, and long-term goals.
  2. Research Insurance Companies: Research insurance companies that offer life insurance policies with living benefits. Look for reputable companies with strong financial ratings and positive customer reviews.
  3. Compare Policy Options: Compare the features, coverage options, riders, and premiums of different life insurance policies with living benefits. Consider factors such as the type of policy (term or permanent), coverage amount, duration of coverage, and available riders.
  4. Assess Additional Riders: Determine which living benefits riders, such as critical illness, chronic illness, or terminal illness riders, you want to include in your policy. Consider how these riders align with your financial needs and risk factors.
  5. Undergo Underwriting Process: Apply for life insurance coverage by completing an application and undergoing the underwriting process. You may need to provide personal information, medical history, and undergo a medical exam or health questionnaire, depending on the insurance company and policy requirements.
  6. Review Policy Terms: Review the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the life insurance policy carefully. Make sure you understand how the living benefits riders work, including any waiting periods, coverage limitations, and eligibility criteria.
  7. Purchase the Policy: Once you’ve selected a life insurance policy with living benefits that meets your needs, you can purchase the policy by paying the initial premium. The insurance company will issue the policy, and you’ll receive a policy document outlining the coverage details.
  8. Manage Your Policy: Keep track of your life insurance policy and make any necessary updates or changes as your circumstances change over time. Review your coverage regularly to ensure it continues to meet your needs and goals.
  9. File a Claim if Needed: If you experience a qualifying illness or condition covered by the living benefits riders, you can file a claim with the insurance company to access the benefits. Follow the claims process outlined in your policy document and provide any required documentation to support your claim.
  10. Work with a Professional: Consider working with an experienced insurance agent or financial advisor who can help you navigate the process of obtaining a life insurance policy with living benefits. They can provide guidance, answer your questions, and assist you in selecting the right coverage for your needs and goals.

By following these steps and working with professionals as needed, you can obtain a life insurance policy with living benefits that provides valuable financial protection and peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Are the Cons of Life Insurance With Living Benefits?

Life insurance living benefits typically come with extra costs. For example, permanent policies are significantly more expensive than term policies, and adding living benefit riders often requires an additional fee. Upon use, many living benefits also reduce the death benefit your beneficiary will receive.

Can You Borrow From Your Life Insurance Policy?

If you have a permanent life insurance policy that’s accumulated enough cash value, you can borrow against it. Unlike term loans, you don’t have to repay the outstanding balance by a specific date. However, the balance will be deducted from your death benefit if you don’t repay it before passing away. Life insurance loans are generally tax-free, although the insurance company will charge you interest while the loan is outstanding.

What Happens If You Live Beyond Your Life Insurance?

If you outlive a term life insurance policy and don’t renew or convert it, your coverage will end, and your beneficiary won’t be entitled to a death benefit. Insurers may offer ways for you to maintain coverage after a term policy expires, such as converting to permanent insurance, but often at a more expensive rate. On the other hand, permanent insurance lasts throughout your lifetime, as long as you keep paying the premiums. Therefore, you cannot outlive permanent insurance.

The Bottom Line

While life insurance allows you to leave behind money for loved ones, it can also help you prepare for whatever the future may hold in your lifetime. The cash value component on permanent life policies can provide you with a lump sum of cash to pay for large expenses such as college tuition or a down payment on a retirement home. Further, living benefit riders can help cover your expenses if you become sick or disabled. Only you can decide whether the coverage and peace of mind are worth the additional cost. A good place to start is by collecting quotes so you can weigh the costs and benefits of adding extra living benefits.

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