Life Insurance 101: What You Need to Know

Life insurance is a powerful financial tool that provides protection and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. However, navigating the world of life insurance can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the terminology and options available. In this blog post, we’ll cover the basics of life insurance to help you understand what you need to know before buying a policy.

  1. Understand the Purpose of Life Insurance: At its core, life insurance is designed to provide financial support to your beneficiaries in the event of your death. This support can help cover funeral expenses, outstanding debts, mortgage payments, and provide financial stability for your loved ones during a difficult time. By purchasing a life insurance policy, you can ensure that your family is taken care of financially, even if you’re no longer there to provide for them.
  2. Determine Your Coverage Needs: Before buying a life insurance policy, it’s essential to assess your coverage needs based on your financial obligations, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Consider factors such as your outstanding debts, mortgage balance, income replacement needs, and future expenses, such as college tuition for your children. By calculating your coverage needs, you can ensure that your life insurance policy provides adequate protection for your loved ones.
  3. Evaluate the Cost of Coverage: The cost of life insurance premiums can vary based on factors such as your age, health, lifestyle, coverage amount, and the type of policy you choose. Compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage at a price you can afford.
  4. Review Policy Riders and Additional Benefits: Life insurance policies often include optional riders and additional benefits that can enhance your coverage and provide added flexibility. Common riders include accelerated death benefits, which allow you to access a portion of the death benefit if you’re diagnosed with a terminal illness, and waiver of premium, which waives premium payments if you become disabled and unable to work. Review the available riders and consider adding ones that align with your needs and priorities.

In conclusion, purchasing a life insurance policy is an important decision that requires careful consideration of your coverage needs, budget, and long-term goals. By understanding the basics of life insurance and evaluating your options, you can choose a policy that provides financial protection and peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

For more information about various available options and what’s best for you, give us a call – 0800 667-257, or email us at ask@freedomfinancial.co.nz. We would love to hear from you.