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Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Your Life Insurance: How Does It Work?

By Tom Martens

A life insurance policy is exactly what its name suggests'an insurance policy covering the loss of your life. You buy your life insurance policy from an authorized agent, paying the insurance company a set monthly, quarterly, or annual premium. In return, the insurance company agrees to pay out a contracted amount of money after you decease. The proceeds from your life insurance policies go to the beneficiaries you designate, typically in a single lump sum payment. If your do not designate beneficiaries for your policy, then the insurance company makes the lump sum payment to your estate.

There are two basic kinds of life insurance: Term insurance, also called protection policies. These policies are temporary, providing coverage for a specific number of years for a set premium.

Term policies have no cash value. Basically, you buy protection in the event of death and nothing else.

Whole life: These policies are also called permanent life insurance. The objective of whole life is to grow capital through the payment of regular or lump-sum premiums, while providing coverage in the event of death. This kind of coverage is also known as permanent life insurance. The premiums do not change, and there is a guaranteed cash value for the policy, which can be accessed whether or nor you die, for emergencies, vacations, retirement, or other expenses.

In addition to whole life insurance, other permanent policies include universal life insurance, which offers flexibility in that the insured can change the payment schedule or coverage amount; variable universal life insurance, which allows the potential for earning market returns; and single payment whole life insurance, where the insured buys the policy with one lump sum payment.

Life insurance policies usually cover death, although they may also cover dismemberment or serious illness, and give extra benefits in the event of accidental death, depending on the policy purchases. Proof of death or injury is always required before payment, regardless of the type of coverage. Remember, to get your coverage, you will have to get a physical examination from a company-approved doctor to give the company an accurate picture of your medical history. And even after you pass your physical, the coverage does not start before premiums are paid. Once premiums are paid, the policy is activated.

Life insurance usually covers death, dismemberment, accidental death and serious illness, depending on the type of policy purchased. Proof is required in all cases before payment will be made on any life insurance policy, regardless of the policy type. To purchase life insurance, you will need to get a quote from a qualified insurance provider, give an accurate picture of your medical history and receive a physical examination from your doctor. Once you pass your physical exam and your medical history is approved, a premium is required. After the premium is paid, then your life insurance policy is activated. A qualified insurance provider can also answer any specific questions you may have, as well as help design and tailor a life insurance program to help meet the needs of you and your family.

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