Get an overview of life insurance coverage, its purpose, and how to determine the right coverage amount to secure your family’s future.
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Life insurance can be a complex and overwhelming topic, but it is also one of the most critical components of a solid financial plan. The purpose of this type of insurance is to provide financial protection to your loved ones in the event of your unexpected death. But determining the right amount of coverage for your specific situation can be challenging. In this article, we'll provide you with the information you need to determine the right amount of life insurance coverage for you.
Life insurance is one of the most critical components of a solid financial plan. There are different types of life insurance policies, such as term plans, whole life insurance plans, endowment policies, and more; you can find the one that best fits your financial goals and lifestyle. Some of the benefits of having a life insurance policy include:
Financial security for your loved ones
Income replacement
Debt repayment
Tax benefits and
Even funeral expenses But how to determine the right amount of coverage for your specific needs? In this article, you’ll learn everything about life insurance coverage, how to calculate the right amount, methods used and even life insurance riders to enhance your coverage.
Life insurance coverage, also known as sum assured, is the amount given to beneficiaries when a policyholder dies or upon a policy reaches maturity. Life insurance coverage can come in different types, including:
Term Life Insurance: Provides coverage for a specific period. It could be 10 years or 30 years. The beneficiaries will get the death benefit if the insured dies during the policy term.
Permanent Life Insurance: Provides coverage for the policyholder’s entire life, as long as premiums are paid. Permanent life insurance policies, like whole life insurance, also have a cash value component that grows over time.
The required life insurance coverage varies from one individual to another. Click here to check your life coverage and premiums now.
In this section, we'll take you through the art and science of calculating the right amount of life insurance coverage, tailored for the unique nuances of life in India.
Evaluate Your Financial Landscape
Begin by taking a broad look at your financial world. Consider outstanding debts, monthly expenses, and future financial goals. Factor in the cost of living, education, and healthcare expenses that are integral for an Indian family.
Consider Your Income and Liabilities
Ideally, your life insurance coverage should replace your income and cover outstanding debts. Take into account your annual salary, considering future salary growth. If you have loans, like a home loan or car loan, ensure your coverage can settle these debts, preventing them from becoming a burden on your loved ones.
Account for Future Expenses
Include future expenses like education and marriage in your calculations. Estimate the costs and adjust your coverage to ensure your family's dreams aren't hindered by financial constraints.
Assess Your Health and Lifestyle
Your health and lifestyle choices impact your life insurance needs. Consider your current health status, family medical history, and lifestyle habits. Insurance premiums can vary based on these factors, so providing accurate information is crucial for a realistic coverage estimate.
Review Existing Insurance Policies
If you already have insurance policies, review them to avoid over- or under-insuring yourself. Life circumstances change, and your coverage should adapt accordingly. Regularly reassess your policies to ensure they align with your evolving needs.
Talking about term insurance coverage, ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan provides extensive life coverage at affordable premiums. It is a unique term plan specifically designed to secure your future and your loved ones. It also offers unmatched flexibility and benefits.
Easily customise your Sum Assured or Coverage amount required to provide safety to financial dependents. You can increase or decrease as per your changing needs.
Flexibility to increase or decrease your policy terms
Customise payment frequency and payment options
Change nominees
Add riders to enhance your term plan coverage. You can opt for ACKO Life Accidental Death Benefit Rider, ACKO Life Accidental Total Permanent Disability Benefit Rider and ACKO Life Critical Illness Benefit Rider.
Will Services: Create a will to outline clearly which assets go where
Enjoy tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961
What exactly is a rider in a life insurance policy? Riders are add-ons for extra protection. You can add them to enhance your life insurance coverage. Some of the most popular riders or covers include:
Income Benefit Rider
Long-term Care Rider
Guaranteed Insurability Rider
But the million-dollar question is, do they offer the same level of coverage? Not all riders provide identical coverage. While the Critical Illness Rider steps in during health crises, the Accidental Death Benefit Rider is designed for unforeseen accidents. The key lies in knowing the features and benefits of each rider.
The DIME method breaks down your life insurance needs into four key components: Debt, Income, Mortgage, and Education. It's like creating a personalized financial roadmap tailored to your family's dreams and aspirations. Let’s get started.
Debt - Tackling the Financial Knots
Start by calculating your outstanding debts, including loans and credit cards. Your life insurance coverage should be sufficient to settle these financial obligations, ensuring your family isn't burdened by unpaid dues.
Income - Sustaining the Lifestyle
Consider how much income your family relies on to maintain their current lifestyle. The DIME method suggests multiplying your annual income by the number of years your family needs financial support. This ensures a seamless transition without compromising on their comfort.
Mortgage - Shielding Your Home
If you have a home loan, factor in the outstanding amount. Your life insurance coverage should be adequate to pay off the mortgage, securing the roof over your family's head. This step ensures their home remains a safe haven even in your absence.
Education - Investing in Future Dreams
Remember to factor your children's educational costs. Estimate the cost of their higher education and factor it into your life insurance coverage. The DIME method helps you earmark funds to nurture their academic ambitions, giving them a solid foundation for the future.
Now add up the four components to determine your total life insurance coverage. This comprehensive approach ensures your family is financially secure, allowing them to focus on what matters most – each other.
Here are some tips on choosing the best life insurance company in India.
First off, what are you really looking for in your life insurance sidekick? Are you after the basics or something comprehensive? Think of this as picking the right tool for the job – you need to have the right one in your toolkit.
Life insurance is a bit like a buffet; everyone likes something different. Look for companies with a variety of plans – it's like choosing from a buffet spread, but for insurance.
In today's tech world, being user-friendly is a big win. Pick a company that makes managing your insurance a cakewalk online. It's like having a friend who's always just a text away – simple, quick, and always there when you need them.
The following situations might not be covered under your life insurance policy.
When it comes to war or war-related stuff, life insurance might not be your fortress. It's a reality check for times of conflict. Make sure you're aware of this exclusion and consider it in your financial game plan.
If you're into air travel, know that life insurance may not cover deaths related to aviation incidents. No need to panic, just a straightforward heads-up for frequent flyers.
Life insurance is great, but it won't bail you out if you're into extreme stuff like bungee jumping or crazy treks. Keep it real and know that your insurance might not have your back for these high-risk adventures.
Life insurance might not be helpful around maternity-related deaths. If you're planning a family, understand that this exclusion exists. It's not to scare you, just a heads-up for your financial planning.
Intentional harm like murder won't trigger your life insurance. It's a harsh truth, and it's essential to know that your financial safety net has limits when it comes to criminal acts.
Nature can be unpredictable, and life insurance isn't a shield against all its whims. When natural calamities strike, your insurance might not cover everything. Be aware and factor this into your overall financial preparedness.
Disclaimer
The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on industry experience and several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.