Wednesday, 28 March 2012

Bust Through The Insurance Jargon - Endowment Life Insurance

Although there are many options surrounding insurance policies, you may wish to consider taking out endowment life insurance. This option is slightly different from many standard life insurance policies, in that you receive funds whether you live or die.


In some respect, an endowment life insurance policy can be likened to a term life insurance policy. That is to say, that it will be limited to a specific amount of time, generally 20 or 30 years. The difference is that an endowment life policy will pay out whether you pass on during this period or not. It is a win-win situation as you will receive the cash if you live out the years until the policy expires. The term life insurance option does not pay out if you reach the end of the time alive.


An endowment life insurance policy can also be cashed in early. Choosing to do this will mean that you receive less than you would if you let it run, but you are guaranteed some of the funds to be able to use them whilst still living. For example, if you cash in a policy in the fifteenth year and it is a twenty year policy, you will receive approximately 50% of the amount you would have got once the policy ended. The amount you get will differ depending on the insurers and what agreements were made when the policy was started.


The major drawback of this type of insurance is that you are likely to have to pay a high premium than you would with any other kind. It is possible to get around this by getting a low cost endowment policy. This does mean lower premiums; however, the amount that will be paid out will decrease over time.


Alternatively, you could choose to get a return of premium life insurance policy. This is a fairly new insurance product but is designed to give you the best of both worlds. It is set for a specific period of time like other insurance products and you pay a set amount each month. If you die within the period, your beneficiary will receive the death benefit.


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.


If you are looking to get lower premium quotations, then you need to know that there are a few factors that determine how much you pay. Age is a huge part when taking out in insurance. The younger you are, the more likely the premium will be minimal. This is one reason to arrange life insurance before you reach your prime. Insurers will also look at issue such as smoking. Non-smokers are generally paying 50% less on their premiums than those who choose to smoke.


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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