Understanding the Basics: What is Term Insurance?

As the breadwinner, you probably work hard to provide a comfortable life for your family. Your income covers the monthly expenses and occasional luxuries. But have you ever thought about what would happen if your income was to abruptly stop? 

To counter this uncertainty, a financial safeguard like term insurance can play a vital role. In the maze of various insurance policies available today, it can be tough to pinpoint which one suits your needs best.

In this article, we will explore the basics of term insurance, focusing on its definition, advantages, and why it’s a crucial addition to your financial plan. You can navigate the world of online term insurance with ease as we delve into its fundamentals. 

What is Term Insurance?

When it comes to what is term insurance plan, think of it as a financial shield that offers coverage for a specific period, or ‘term’. Unlike other life insurance policies, term insurance does not have a cash value component. If the insured person passes away during the policy term, the beneficiaries receive a death benefit. However, if the insured outlives the term, there are usually no returns, unless it’s a return-of-premium policy.

Term insurance is a popular type of life insurance as it is often more affordable compared to other types of life insurance. This is because it offers coverage for a specific period without offering any additional features or investment components. Thus, it is a popular choice for individuals who want temporary coverage and do not require lifelong protection.

Benefits of Term Insurance

Several benefits of term insurance make it a go-to choice for many individuals. Let’s dive deeper into the advantages of term insurance, illustrating each one with an India-specific example:

1. Affordable Premiums: As compared to other types of life insurance, term insurance is typically much more affordable. For instance, Meena, a 35-year-old non-smoking woman from Delhi, might pay just INR 7,000 annually for a policy providing a cover of INR 1 crore over 30 years. The affordability of term insurance makes it accessible to a wider range of individuals, thereby enabling more families to have some level of financial protection.
2. Financial Protection: With term insurance, your beneficiaries are ensured a lump-sum death benefit in case of your unfortunate demise during the policy term. For example, Ravi, a 40-year-old man from Bengaluru, takes a term insurance policy of INR 2 crores. In case of Ravi’s untimely demise during the policy term, his family will receive the INR 2 crore sum assured, helping them manage their expenses, or debts, or even fund college educations.
3. Flexibility: Term insurance is flexible, allowing you to tailor your policy based on your needs. Let’s take the case of Priya from Mumbai, who is a single mother of two. She may choose a term plan that not only covers her life but also offers child education benefits as an additional rider. This way, in her absence, the children’s education expenses are taken care of.
4. Add-On Covers: Term insurance plans often provide optional riders such as critical illness coverage, accidental death benefits, and disability coverage. Consider the case of Rahul from Kolkata. Rahul opts for a critical illness rider with his term insurance plan. A few years later, he is diagnosed with heart disease. Because he opted for the critical illness rider, Rahul’s treatment costs are covered by his policy, providing much-needed financial support during a difficult time.

Online Term Insurance

Let’s consider another India-specific example that’s relevant in this digital era. Rajesh, a 30-year-old software engineer, decides to buy an online term insurance policy. He opts for a sum assured of INR 1 crore for a term of 30 years. The annual premium for his policy amounts to INR 10,000. If Rajesh passes away during the policy term, his family will receive the sum assured of INR 1 crore, helping them maintain their lifestyle despite the loss of Rajesh’s income.

Online term insurance has gained traction in the country due to its ease of purchase, wider reach, and often lower premiums. From comparing different plans to calculating premiums and finally buying the policy, everything can be done from the comfort of your home. It’s not only convenient but also empowers you to make informed decisions about your insurance coverage.

Conclusion

Term insurance is a fundamental pillar of financial planning. Its affordable premiums and large coverage amount provide significant financial security for your loved ones in case of unfortunate circumstances. The option of buying term insurance online adds another layer of convenience and ease. 

Whether you are a young professional starting your career or someone with a family relying on your income, term insurance should be a part of your financial toolbox. Remember, it’s not just about securing your life but also about ensuring the financial wellbeing of those you leave behind.

Read also more information