Whole Life Insurance Benefits
If
you've been considering a whole life insurance policy, you understand that
unlike term life insurance (which provides coverage for a specific time
period), a whole life policy is permanent, and designed to provide coverage for
your entire lifetime. However, what you may not know is that there are many
financial benefits contained in a well-designed whole life insurance policy
that stretch beyond the death benefit protection it provides.
When
selecting life insurance, you should consider all your available options. To be
helpful, we've put together a short list highlighting just a few of the
financial features associated with a quality whole life policy.
1. Whole life insurance protection
The
cash value that your whole life policy accumulates isn't subject to stock
market volatility.
2. Cash Value growth
Regardless
of how stock markets perform, your cash value grows at a fixed rate. Over time,
your policy builds cash value that is not subject to stock market declines.
3. Additional income
Under
IRC Section 1035, a whole life policy can be exchanged without tax penalties
for an annuity, which can provide you with additional income for life. Be sure
to consult a qualified financial advisor or tax professional to assess your
specific scenario.
4. A source of cash
There
may be times when you need additional financial resources to help fund certain
expenses. Your whole life policy can be a source of funds to help you meet
these needs and other financial obligations. Unlike 401(k)s and IRAs that
penalize you for accessing your money prior to reaching age 59 1/2, a whole
life policy would allow you to borrow from available cash value for any reason
and pay it back. However, interest will accrue and both the death benefit and
cash value will be reduced by any outstanding loan balance.
5. Dividends
Some
whole life policies pay out annual dividends. This cash can be used to purchase
additional life insurance (paid-up additions) that increases both the total
death benefit and cash value of your life insurance policy. Keep in mind that
dividends are not guaranteed.
The
primary purpose of any life insurance policy is to provide financial protection
for your loved ones when you die. For some, this could be term life insurance,
while others find whole life insurance (or a combination of policy types) a
better fit. However, before you decide to buy any type of life insurance, make
sure you fully understand the key benefits and features of each and how they
can benefit you and your family.
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