Are you underinsured for your circumstances?
As we journey through life, our insurance needs evolve, especially as we reach age 55 and beyond. One crucial policy is life insurance, which provides financial security for our loved ones in the event of our passing.
Shockingly, a Forbes survey revealed that a staggering 64% of Americans aged 58 and older lack life insurance. To ensure you aren't among the underinsured, follow these steps to assess if your life insurance coverage matches your current circumstances.
Evaluate Your Life Stage: If you've recently become empty nesters or retired, your financial responsibilities may have shifted, impacting the necessary coverage. Consider if your policy adequately reflects your current lifestyle and obligations.
Calculate Debt and Expenses: Outstanding debts and ongoing expenses, such as mortgages, loans, and healthcare costs, must be factored into your insurance coverage. Your life insurance should be sufficient to cover these financial obligations, relieving your family from potential burdens.
Assess Your Dependents' Needs: If you have dependents, their needs should be carefully considered. For instance, college tuition, living expenses, and other financial support must be accounted for to secure their future.
Account for Inflation: The cost of living steadily rises due to inflation. Your life insurance policy should be inflation-adjusted to retain its value over time and adequately provide for your beneficiaries.
Reevaluate Your Income Replacement: Life insurance often serves as income replacement for surviving family members. Ensure that the coverage is enough to maintain their standard of living and help achieve their financial goals.
Review Existing Policies: If you already have life insurance, take a closer look at the terms and benefits. Policy updates or additional coverage may be necessary to address any gaps.
Consider Long-Term Care Needs: As you age, the possibility of requiring long-term care increases. Some life insurance policies offer riders that cover long-term care expenses, providing an extra layer of protection.
Work with a Trusted, Licensed Insurance Agent: Identifying whether you are underinsured can be a complex process. Consulting with a knowledgeable insurance agent who specializes in serving clients aged 55 and above can guide you through the assessment and help you choose the most suitable coverage.
Making sure that you have adequate life insurance is vital for protecting your loved ones and their financial future. By evaluating your current circumstances and working alongside a licensed insurance agent, you can be confident that your life insurance coverage aligns with your needs.
Don't leave the financial security of your family to chance—take charge of your insurance today.
*This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information provided is not written or intended as tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for purposes of avoiding any Federal tax penalties. Individuals are encouraged to seek advice from their own tax or legal counsel. Individuals involved in the estate planning process should work with an estate planning team, including their own personal legal or tax counsel. Neither the information presented nor any opinion expressed constitutes a representation by us of a specific investment or the purchase or sale of any securities. Asset allocation and diversification do not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets. This material was developed and produced by Advisor Websites to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. Copyright 2021 Advisor Websites.
