One of the available options when it comes to life insurance is that of endowment life insurance. This product is unique in the world of insurance due to the fact that you can receive money back whether you live or die during the lifetime of cover. Many other forms of insurance do not offer this option.
In one way, an endowment life insurance policy can be compared to a term life insurance policy. Both products have a set period of cover that can range from 10 to 30 years. The exception of the endowment insurance policy is that it will pay out a lump sum of cash whether you perish during this period or not. You can basically put money aside which will be available whether or not you outlive the length of the policy. Term life insurance differs in the fact that there is no payout when the policy expires; payments are only made should you die during the years of the policy being active.
Another advantage of an endowment life insurance plan is that you can decide to cash it in before the policy expires. This commonly means that you will receive less money than you would have done if you let it mature, but you can receive the money back at a time that you most need to use it. For instance, if you cash in a policy after 15 years and it is due to run for another five, then you are likely to receive approximately half of the total that would have been paid out at the end of the policy. The exact amount of money you receive if you cash in will depend on the arrangements you have made with the insurer.
The main disadvantage of this type of plan is that it ordinarily charges higher premiums than that of other life insurance policies. You can purchase a low cost endowment policy but although the premium is lower, the cash value generally deteriorates throughout the period of the plan.
Another viable option is to invest in a return of premium insurance plan. This is the new kid on the block but will prove popular with many people as it allows you to benefit in either circumstance. The policy follows the pattern of having a set period for the policy and you will pay the regular premiums to the insurer. If you pass away during this period, the insurer will pay out the money to the beneficiary named on the policy.
Should you live through to the end of the policy, you will receive your premiums paid back to you in full. There is no tax payable on the premiums you have made and so there will be no reduction in the amount of money that is returned to you. You can also receive some return of premium if you cancel the policy before it is due to expire. Essentially, this policy is a way of ensuring you receive money back whether you do or don’t die.
When you apply for life insurance there are several elements that determine the amount of premium that you will pay to the insurer. One of these elements is your age; it is likely the older you are, the higher the premium amount you pay. This is why it pays to take out life insurance when you are younger. Secondly, factors such as being a smoker can mean that you will pay more each month. Non-smokers tend to receive lower premiums because they are keeping themselves in good health.
You can find out all about return of premium insurance and endowment life insurance policies from your financial advisor or insurance agent. Take the time to look at the policies closely and ask any questions that you have. If you feel you are ready to buy these policies, most providers have a quick and straightforward application form on their websites.
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