There are many type of life insurance, but they generally fall into one of two categories: term insurance and permanent insurance.
Term insurance is designed to meet temporary needs and provide better protection for a certain period of time. Term insurance generally pays a benefit only if something happens and you die during the term. This kind of insurance often makes more sense when you have a need for coverage that will disappear at a particular point in time. For example, you may determine that you only need coverage until your children graduate from college or a certain debt is paid off, such as your mortgage.
However, permanent insurance is just that, permanent. This type of insurance can provide lifelong coverage. As long as you cover the premiums, and no loans, withdrawals or surrenders are taken, the full face amount should be paid. Because permanent insurance is designed to last a lifetime, it accumulates cash value and is priced for you to keep over a long period of time.
It’s hard to determine which type of life insurance is better because the kind of coverage that’s right for you depends on your individual circumstances and financial goals.
One of the best ways to determine the amount and type of life insurance that better suits your needs is to meet with a qualified and licensed life insurance professional.