Term life pays a lump sum to the people you name if you die during the term. If you outlive the term, the coverage ends unless you convert or renew it. There is usually no cash value.
How it works
Term is the policy most families buy first because the job is simple: replace income, pay off a mortgage, or cover a defined obligation while the need is largest. You choose a face amount and a term. Premiums are typically level for that period. If you die while the policy is in force, the carrier pays the death benefit to your beneficiaries. When the term ends, you can often convert to a permanent policy without a new medical exam, renew at a much higher rate, or let it expire. Return-of-premium (ROP) term is a more expensive design that can give premiums back if you outlive the term. We quote standard cases and impaired-risk cases — health history is part of underwriting, not a reason to stay silent.
Who this is for
- Parents who need income replacement while children are young
- Homeowners who want the mortgage paid if they die
- Anyone who needs a large death benefit at the lowest current premium
- People with a health history who still need a quote, not a brush-off
What it typically covers
- A death benefit paid to your beneficiaries if you die during the term
- Level premiums for the period you choose
- Conversion to permanent coverage, when the contract allows it
- Return-of-premium designs, when you want premiums back if you outlive the term
A simple example
A 38-year-old with a 30-year mortgage and two children buys a 20-year, $1 million term policy. If they die in year 12, the beneficiaries receive the benefit. If they live past year 20, the policy ends unless it was converted.
Good to know
- Term is not a savings account. If you need cash value or coverage that lasts a lifetime, look at whole life or universal life.
- We work cases that are not straightforward. Tell us the health history up front.
- Return-of-premium term costs more than standard term. We will show both.
Coverage, eligibility, premiums, and underwriting vary by age, health, state, and carrier. Illustrations are not guarantees. This is not tax, legal, or investment advice.