According to the India Protection Quotient (IPQ) survey 4, the ownership of term insurance plans among Indians has increased from 39% to 43%.
But what has led to this surge in term insurance plans? What is so special about this insurance? In this 4-minute read, we will dive into the world of affordable life insurance and enlighten you with every detail you need to know.
So, what is Term insurance, and why is it essential to understand the importance of term insurance in your financial planning?
Term insurance is a type of life insurance that offers financial security to your beneficiaries in your absence. A death benefit will be paid if the insured passes away during the specified term while the policy is active. This life insurance covers a specific period without any cash value component, leading to lower premiums.
A term insurance plan is like that helpful friend you can always rely on. A friend who has your back, even in situations when everything seems to fall apart, and can easily entrust your family with. It comes with several benefits, including (but not limited to):
- Affordable Premiums
- Death Benefits
- Premium Payment Flexibility
- Income Tax Benefits
Now that you know what a term insurance plan is, let’s understand how it works.
Table of Contents
How Term Insurance Works?
A term insurance policy is a contract between the owner and an insurance company. The owner agrees to pay a minimum regular premium for a specified term, usually 10 to 30 years. In return, the insurance company promises to pay a predetermined death benefit in cash to a designated beneficiary upon the insured’s death.
Types Of Term Insurance Policies
- Level-Term Insurance: Provides a fixed death benefit and consistent premiums for a specified period.
Advantages: Predictable premiums, steady coverage, and easy to understand.
Factors: Appropriate for stable coverage needs, like mortgages or income replacement during critical life stages.
- Decreasing Term Insurance: Offers a death benefit that decreases over time.
Advantages: To cover loans or mortgages, where the outstanding amount decreases over time.
Factors: Cost-effective for specific purposes. Limitations: Reduced coverage over time, limited application beyond debt coverage.
- Renewable Term Insurance: It allows policyholders to renew coverage at the end of each term without a medical exam.
Advantages: Continuity of coverage, flexibility to adjust coverage.
Factors: Assess future needs and explore conversion to permanent coverage if required.
- Convertible Term Insurance: Enables policyholders to convert to permanent coverage without a medical exam.
Advantages: Guaranteed insurability, potential cash value accumulation.
Factors: Evaluate long-term needs and conversion period limitations for appropriate decisions.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Term Insurance Plan
- Choose the right insurer:
- Assess the Claim-Settlement Ratio: Assess the claim-settlement ratio and solvency ratio of the insurance company.
- Verify the Solvency Ratio: Evaluate the solvency ratio of insurance companies to ensure their ability to fulfill financial obligations. The solvency ratio should meet the IRDAI’s minimum requirement of 1.5. Access the solvency ratio information online.
- Determine your Needs: Calculate the premium you might need to pay using the term insurance calculator.
- Evaluate Benefits: Compare policy benefits to find plans offering superior advantages. Look for policies with maturity benefits, flexible payment options, and varied payout choices.
- Opt for Riders: Explore additional riders with term plans, such as critical illness and accidental disability coverage. These riders provide extra financial security during challenging times for you and your loved ones.
- Seek Flexible Payout Options: Consider term insurance plans that offer flexible payout options aligned with your financial goals. Monthly payouts can be more manageable for your nominee, assisting them with immediate financial needs.
- Research Online Availability: Ensure your insurer offers online and offline availability. Check if they have 24×7 chat features on their website for quick query resolution. Look for companies that facilitate online claims filing for faster processing.
Addressing Common Misunderstandings About the Term Insurance
Despite the increasing popularity of term insurance plans, several misconceptions surround this essential and straightforward life insurance product. Let’s check them out!
Myth: Term insurance is not worth it if I outlive the policy.
Fact: While there is no payout if you outlive the policy, term insurance is valuable for income protection during vulnerable years when dependents or financial obligations exist, ensuring financial security in case of an untimely death.
Myth: Term insurance lacks cash value, making it less valuable.
Fact: Term insurance prioritizes affordable coverage and pure protection without cash value accumulation, making it valuable for those seeking straightforward life insurance without added investment costs.
Conclusion
Term insurance is an important part of financial planning. It can provide financial security for your loved ones in the event of your death. If you are considering term insurance, be sure to do your research and choose a policy that is right for you.
