Tag: term insurnce

As we navigate life, we often find ourselves responsible for others – our families, our loved ones. And with that responsibility comes the inherent desire to protect them, come what may. This is where financial planning steps in, and one of its fundamental pillars is the term plan. In simple terms, With a term insurance plan, your family is financially protected. If the Life Assured passes away during the policy period, their beneficiaries( Nominee) receive a lump sum death benefit, ensuring their financial stability. It’s important to note that if the insured individual outlives the policy term, the insurer does not provide any benefit to them or their beneficiaries. If you’re new to the world of insurance, the jargon can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, a term plan is simpler than you think. Let’s break down this essential financial tool for beginners. Key Features of a Term Plan Sum Assured: The amount your family will receive in case of your death. A term plan provides a sum of money (called the “sum assured”) to your nominated beneficiaries if you pass away during the policy term. That’s it. There are no investment components or maturity benefits.( I covered this in my other blog https://wealthinn.in/term-insurance-dont-be-fooled-into-buying-these-products/) Premiums: The amount you pay to keep the policy active. Usually paid annually or monthly. Because it’s pure protection, term plans are significantly more affordable than other life insurance products like endowment plans or ULIPs. You pay a relatively small premium for a substantial amount of coverage. Policy Term :  As the name suggests, a term plan covers you for a specific period (e.g., 10, 20, 30 years, or even up to 85 years of age). If you outlive the policy term, the plan simply expires, and no payout is made. Riders: These are the extra benefits that are there apart from the basic sum assured. These options can be chosen while purchasing a policy. Optional add-ons like critical illness cover, accidental death benefit, etc. Why Do You Need a Term Plan? The Power of “What If?” Consider these scenarios: Young Professional with Dependents: If you’re the sole earning member supporting your parents or a young family, your sudden demise could leave them in a financially vulnerable position. A term plan ensures they have funds to cover daily expenses, loan EMIs, and future goals. Home Loan or Other Liabilities: If you have outstanding loans, especially a home loan, a term plan can ensure your family isn’t burdened with these debts in your absence. The sum assured can be used to pay off these liabilities. Future Goals: Your children’s education, their marriage – these are significant financial goals. A term plan can act as a contingency fund, ensuring these aspirations can still be met even if you’re not around. Essentially, a term plan answers the crucial “what if?” question, providing peace of mind knowing your loved ones will be financially secure. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Term Plan: Now that you understand the basics, here are some important aspects to keep in mind when selecting a term plan: Sum Assured: How Much Coverage Do You Need? This is perhaps the most critical decision. A general rule of thumb is to have a sum assured that is at least 10-15 times your annual income. However, also consider your outstanding loans, future financial goals, and your dependents’ needs. It’s always better to be adequately insured than under-insured. ( I have covered how much do you need in my blog https://wealthinn.in/understanding-life-insurance-a-guide/) Policy Term: How Long Do You Need Coverage? Align the policy term with your major financial responsibilities. If you have a home loan for 20 years, consider a plan for at least that duration. If your children are young, you might want a term that covers their education and initial years of employment. Do not buy policy terms beyond the time your liabilities are over, it will only cost you but won’t help you. Premiums: Can You Afford It? While term plans are affordable, compare premiums across different insurers. Don’t just go for the cheapest option; consider the insurer’s claim settlement ratio as well.  Cheap is never the best. Choose an insurer who would pay your family in your absence without much issues to your family. After you your family should not suffer from another mental trauma!!! Claim Settlement Ratio (CSR): How Reliable is the Insurer? A high CSR (preferably above 95%) indicates that the insurance company efficiently settles claims. This is a crucial metric, as the whole purpose of a term plan is to ensure your family receives the payout when they need it most. You can find this data on IRDAI’s annual reports. We can help you with same. Riders: Add-ons for Enhanced Protection (Optional) Many insurers offer riders that you can add to your term plan for an extra premium. Common riders include: Accidental Death Benefit Rider: Provides an additional sum assured in case of death due to an accident. Critical Illness Rider: Pays out a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a pre-defined critical illness. Waiver of Premium Rider: If you suffer a permanent disability or a critical illness, future premiums are waived, but the policy continues. Not just limited to these riders there are beyond these , but do you need them or they are just marketing gimmicks. You can learn by just asking us.  The Bottom Line: Don’t Delay! A term plan is not an expense; it’s an investment in your family’s future security. It’s a testament to your love and responsibility. The younger you are when you buy a term plan, the lower your premiums will be. So, if you haven’t considered a term plan yet, now is the time. Speak to us, click this link , compare policies online, and secure your loved ones’ financial well-being today. It’s one of the most sensible financial decisions you’ll ever make.