Living Benefits Life Insurance
Term life insurance with living benefits can keep you from going broke by paying out for long-term care and medical bills. Affordable term life insurance policies with living benefits don’t have to be hard to find. They're offered as an additional rider in most cases.
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Tracey L. Wells
Licensed Insurance Agent & Agency Owner
Tracey L. Wells is a licensed insurance agent and Farmers insurance agency owner with 23 years of experience. He is proud to be a local Farmers agent serving Grayson, Georgia and surrounding areas. With experience as both an underwriter and agent, he provides his customers with insight that others agents may not have. His agency offers all lines of insurance including home, life, auto, RV, busi...
Licensed Insurance Agent & Agency Owner
UPDATED: Oct 15, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right life insurance coverage choices.
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Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about life insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything life insurance-related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by life insurance experts.
UPDATED: Oct 15, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right life insurance coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident life insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one life insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our life insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different life insurance companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- Term life insurance with living benefits offers you some standard life insurance benefits before you are deceased.
- Term life insurance with living benefits is often referred to as accelerated death benefits.
- Term life insurance with living benefits is usually offered as an optional rider.
- Term life insurance with living benefits can often be included in your policy for a small increase in cost.
- Receiving living benefits will not change your overall death benefit, just the timing in which the benefit is received.
There is no other form of insurance or a financial tool that provides the value you get from term life insurance with living benefits. It’s inexpensive, simple to maintain, and term life insurance quotes are easy to get.
We’re here to help walk you through finding the best term life insurance with living benefits, how to get the best rates, and more. Read our living benefits insurance review to get started. Not only that but also providing comprehensive life insurance for people living with disabilities is a vital step towards ensuring their financial security and peace of mind.
Ready to start looking for quality term life insurance with living benefits quotes? You can then buy term life insurance with living benefits at the best rates. Read on to learn more about term insurance with living benefits now.
What is life insurance with living benefits?
Term life insurance with living benefits (also known as an accelerated death benefit) is essential for financially protecting your loved ones, business, or estate.
Who needs life insurance with living benefits? What are living benefits? What is the whole life with living benefits? What are the living benefits of life insurance? There are a lot of questions to ask.
Most life insurance companies include a rider on their term life policies that allows for the payment of a portion of the policy death benefit to be paid to the policy beneficiary(s) in the event the primary insured is diagnosed as terminally ill by a practising, licensed physician.
This is usually called an accelerated death benefit rider or living benefit rider. The rider is almost always included at no additional cost and is subject to state availability.
Each life insurance living benefits company has guidelines regarding the specific requirements of the rider. The chart below shows some of these guidelines and the general range across companies.
Term Life Insurance Guideline Requirements for Rider
Guidelines | Rider Requirements |
---|---|
Life Expectancy | 6 – 12 Months |
Amount Allowed | 25% – 75% |
Maximum Amount | $250K – $500K |
Life expectancy is the amount of time the licensed physician expects the primary insured to live. The amount allowed is the percentage of the policy face amount the insurance company will “accelerate” or payout. The maximum amount is simply the most the company will pay under the rider.
It is important to note the amount accelerated is treated like a policy loan and is deducted from the face amount of the policy along with any accrued interest and administrative fees.
The accelerated death benefit rider can be a valuable feature should you become terminally ill during the term of your life insurance policy.
Proceeds can be used to pay related medical expenses, prepay funeral expenses, or settle any other outstanding issues before an anticipated death. Of course, you may never choose to use the rider, which may be the best scenario of all.
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Who are the best living benefits life insurance companies?
Several companies offer this living benefits insurance policy with their level policies or additional rider. For example, Northwestern Mutual offers an early pay benefit if the insured has been diagnosed with less than six months to live. This benefit, alongside options like the cost of living rider in a life insurance policy, isn’t available in some states, and some policies may be exempt from the early pay benefit.
With Northwestern’s early pay benefit, you can expect to get up to 50% of your death benefit ahead of time. Additionally, MetLife offers long-term care and an accelerated death benefit rider to assist with any care that your loved one may need. This rider will keep you from having to dip into your own personal savings to cover assisted living or a part-time nurse. To qualify, the insured must be unable to perform the basic and necessary acts of daily life, such as bathing, eating, dressing, and using the bathroom on their own.
New York Life offers an accelerated care rider that can be used in case of permanent or temporary impairment. To qualify, the insured will have to be unable to perform the basic and necessary actions of everyday life. They will front you half your death benefit, up to $500,000.
Prudential’s BenefitAccess™ rider will front you up to 100% of your death benefit if you’re facing a chronic or terminal diagnosis that requires further care.
As long as you sign up at the start of your policy and have a coverage amount of at least $100,000, you’ll be all set to take full advantage of this rider.
Lincoln National’s TermAccel® term life policy offers a minimum coverage of $100,000 and can be accelerated if you face an illness that’s likely to result in your death. (For more information, read our “What is the minimum coverage amount for life insurance?“).
Receiving this life insurance living benefit early can be taxed and affect your ability to draw assistance from government programs. There is a one-time charge if you choose to use this rider.
Who are the top life insurance companies by market share?
Here are a few companies that already offer accelerated death and accelerated care benefits either as a rider or already included in the policy.
Top Five Life Insurance Companies by Market Share
Companies | Market Share |
---|---|
Northwestern Mutual | 6.42% |
Metlife | 6.00% |
New York Life | 5.68% |
Prudential | 5.57% |
Lincoln | 5.36% |
A market share indicates a company’s percentage hold on the consumer base. These companies have high market shares due to their excellent service and the degree to which they have helped customers in their times of need.
There are many questions to answer before we can say who has the best term life insurance policy. Add in special scenarios like accelerated death benefits and things become even more difficult.
How much does living benefit life insurance cost?
Rates may vary between companies and based on your risk factors. Here is an example of what you can expect to pay with Lincoln National, which offers insurance living benefits attached automatically to the policy.
These rates reflect the different prices between men and women who don’t smoke.
Lincoln Financial Average Monthly Life Insurance Rates by Age and Gender
Demographics | Average Monthly life Insurance Rates |
---|---|
25-Year-Old Female | $187 |
25-Year-Old Male | $231 |
35-Year-Old Female | $191 |
35-Year-Old Male | $238 |
45-Year-Old Female | $239 |
45-Year-Old Male | $283 |
55-Year-Old Female | $435 |
55-Year-Old Male | $615 |
65-Year-Old Female | $903 |
65-Year-Old Male | $1,577 |
As you can see, the prices can multiply exponentially the longer you wait to sign up for the policy. It’s best to sign up for the policy early to get the type of policy you want at affordable term life insurance with living benefits rates.
Keep in mind that living benefits for National Life Group policies will likely have different price variables than AIG living benefits. Read on for the living benefits life insurance definition.
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The Appeal of Life Insurance with Living Benefits
Choosing the best life insurance with living benefits can be a crucial decision for those seeking additional support during their lifetime. Life insurance with living benefits offers policyholders the opportunity to access a portion of the death benefit in cases of terminal illness, critical illness, or long-term care needs. The life insurance with living benefits cost can vary depending on the insurer and the policy’s specific features, but the added peace of mind and financial support often outweigh the costs. Living benefits life insurance pros and cons should be carefully considered; the pros include immediate financial relief and the flexibility to use funds for medical expenses or other needs, while the cons may involve higher premiums or reduced death benefits. Leading providers, such as National Life Group, are known for offering comprehensive policies with living benefits, making them one of the best life insurance companies with living benefits. Additionally, living benefits of term insurance provides similar benefits during the term of the policy, ensuring that even temporary coverage can offer valuable support.
Understanding Living Benefits and Their Impact
What is living benefits in the context of life insurance? Living benefits allow policyholders to access a portion of their death benefit while they are still alive, under specific conditions. These benefits are sometimes referred to as accelerated benefits examples, which can include Northwestern Mutual’s accelerated care benefit and the accelerated death benefit percentage, a percentage of the death benefit available to the policyholder. Companies like National Life Group offer tailored options, and one can easily find National Life Group and quote information online to compare policies. For those considering term life policies, term life insurance with living benefits can provide critical coverage when needed most, contributing to a higher quality of life insurance. While these benefits can significantly aid in covering expenses during a health crisis, they may reduce the overall death benefit available to beneficiaries. Therefore, understanding the implications of accessing a living benefit is essential for making informed decisions.
Life Insurance Options with Accelerated Benefits and Specialized Coverage
Accelerated living benefit is a feature available in some life insurance policies that allows policyholders to access a portion of their death benefit if diagnosed with a terminal, chronic, or critical illness. This feature, also known as accelerated serious illness cover, provides financial relief during challenging times, helping cover medical expenses or other costs associated with serious health conditions. Accelerated term life insurance offers similar benefits within the term of the policy, providing flexibility and support when it’s needed most. Companies like Acceleration Life Insurance Company specialize in offering policies with these features, ensuring that policyholders can access funds during a critical period without waiting for the death benefit payout.
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Tailoring Life Insurance for Specific Needs and Risks
When choosing a policy, understanding the advantages of life insurance is crucial. Life insurance can provide financial security for beneficiaries, cover final expenses, and offer peace of mind. The best life insurance for chronic illness often includes a chronic illness life insurance rider option, allowing policyholders to access funds if they are unable to perform daily activities due to a chronic condition. Similarly, for those with specific occupations or hobbies, specialized coverage is essential. For example, best life insurance for loggers and best life insurance for skydiving are tailored to higher-risk professions and activities. Those looking for comprehensive coverage might consider the best life insurance with a long-term care rider, which helps cover long-term care expenses if needed. Chronic illness life insurance provides a safety net for those with pre-existing conditions, ensuring coverage and support. Colonial Life’s cancer policy payout amounts and Colonial Life’s whole life insurance are examples of policies that cater to specific health concerns and provide lifetime coverage. However, it’s important to consider the cons of term life insurance, such as the lack of cash value accumulation and limited coverage duration, which may not be suitable for long-term financial planning.
What is the purpose of having an accelerated death benefit on a life insurance policy?
The living benefits definition is almost exactly what the name implies: benefits paid from the term life policy while you’re living. These are more commonly known as accelerated death benefits.
With these benefits, the life insurance company pays or advances a portion of the policy’s death benefit to you to pay for care or treatment.
The company will then pay the balance of the death benefit to your beneficiary(s) if you were to die.
Many companies offer life insurance with living benefits. Transamerica life insurance company, for example, has integrated this idea into a new term life offering called Trendsetter LB (Living Benefits).
The Trendsetter LB policy pays accelerated death benefits to policy owners who are either chronically, critically, or terminally ill.
Which type of life insurance provides living benefits?
Let’s take a look at the three most common types of life insurance with living benefits.
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What is a chronic illness accelerated death benefits rider?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer are among the costliest of all health problems in the United States, making life insurance for chronic illness a crucial consideration for those affected.
If you were to become chronically ill during the term of the policy, the company would advance up to 90% of the policy’s coverage amount ($500,000 maximum) to help you pay for treatment or to replace lost income.
To qualify for this benefit, a licensed health care practitioner has to verify that you’re unable to perform two out of the six activities of daily living (bathing, continence, dressing, eating, toileting, and transferring).
What is a critical illness accelerated death benefits rider?
If you were to suffer a critical health condition such as lung cancer, heart attack, stroke, or paralysis, you could be eligible to receive accelerated death benefits from your policy.
Once again, the company will advance up to 90% of the policy’s face amount ($500,000 maximum) if a licensed physician determines that you’re critically ill.
Read more: How To Get Life Insurance With Lung Cancer
Can you get life insurance if you have a terminal illness?
Are accelerated death benefits with a terminal illness out of the question? Learn about terminal illness accelerated death benefits riders.
The terminal illness benefit is for more serious conditions where a licensed physician has diagnosed you have less than 12 months to live. It’s safe to go by common terminal diagnoses as provided by Stanford.
This policy will advance up to 100% of the policy’s face amount, with a maximum of $500,000.
The terminal illness benefit has been around for a long time and isn’t unique to Transamerica Life’s Trendsetter LB policy. In fact, it’s a very common benefit included in most term life insurance policies.
The benefit amounts and terms do vary by company, so be sure to ask your agent for specifics if this benefit is important to you.
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What are the accelerated death benefit limitations?
It’s important to note that there are some limitations to be aware of with these types of benefits. Whether it be a legal issue that needs ironing out or ineligibility based on your underwriting, you may face issues getting your policy.
There are many factors considered by the life insurance company when evaluating a request for accelerated death benefits. It’s a good idea for you to get a solid understanding of these benefits before you purchase a policy.
You don’t want to wait until a chronic illness strikes to learn how your policy works. The two most prominent limitations are legal & financial and prior underwriting.
What is an accelerated death benefit example?
Accelerated death benefits aren’t available in every state. For example, the Transamerica term life insurance policy with living benefits isn’t available in New York. It’s available in Texas, but the terminal illness portion is not.
Many standard term life policies that offer accelerated death benefits are also limited by state restrictions. It’s best to confirm availability in your state with your agent.
How much you can receive ahead of time will be determined before you start your policy. So you should be sure to ask your agent or review that information on your contract.
Many benefits are limited regarding amount and frequency. For example, although the chronic illness benefit allows up to 90% of the policy’s face amount, that amount is limited to 24% per year.
There may be other limitations based upon individual circumstances, such as life expectancy.
Something else to look out for is the fees that will be taken out of the advance before you receive the money, so you don’t get surprised when you receive less than expected.
Accelerated death benefits are essentially loans against the policy’s face amount.
The company will use a benefit interest rate used to determine the present value of future benefits. This rate, along with administrative fees which vary by company, will be factored into the amount of the benefit allowed.
Another important consideration is that receiving the lump sum could place you above the qualifying requirements for Medicaid and Social Security benefits. You should discuss this with your agent before you lose out on your benefits.
If you’re given a sudden medical diagnosis that doesn’t look good, you most likely won’t be able to get this policy. This benefit or rider is best purchased as a just-in-case option.
Outside of this, you can expect the typical underwriting process where your job, habits, and overall health as a whole will be considered before you learn if your policy was accepted.
If your family has a history of severe illness or you live a riskier lifestyle, then you can expect to pay higher premiums to cover that risk.
What factors affect your life insurance premium?
Your rates will mostly be affected by any risks that make it more likely that you’ll die during the life of the policy. If the insurer thinks they will have to pay out before they make a profit, you may even be denied altogether.
They will find out what risk you pose through a process called underwriting. An underwriter will look at your life to determine the likelihood that you’ll pass away before the end of your policy.
You may be subject to anything from a voluntary questionnaire to blood work and a medical exam.
If you live a riskier life, you may have to pay higher premiums to cover that risk. If you live longer to pay the premiums, and the insurer has a better chance of making a profit on the policy, your premiums will be lower.
While certain red flags stand out to insurers, anything that poses a risk to your life will be viewed negatively.
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Demographics
Even if you have no risky behavior in your life, there are still chances you’ll have to pay more for coverage. The two factors that affect all our policy decisions are age and gender.
Age is important, because the older you get, the more susceptible you become to disease and injury. The later in life you decide to purchase your policy, you’ll be paying that much more for life insurance. The best way to get savings no matter what is to start your policy as soon as you can.
Gender is important because on average, men die sooner than women, according to the NCBI. Because of this, women often don’t have to pay as much as men who are in the same risk categories. The savings aren’t monumental, but women do pay less each month for their premiums.
The best way to get good premiums is, undoubtedly, starting as soon as you can. You’re guaranteed to save more for every year that you sign up earlier for your policy.
Health & Family Medical History
As previously mentioned, the insurer will look at your health to determine what kind of risk you pose. The underwriter will do research and ask you questions to understand your health and susceptibility to illness.
You may be subject to a voluntary questionnaire, blood work, a physical, or all three. It’s best to disclose any prior illnesses, medications, or anything else you use that may be found in these results.
If you’re not honest, you’ll likely be declined from the policy. Your underwriter researches clients every day, so if you’re hiding something, they will likely be able to find out.
Likewise, most insurers won’t give you a policy if there is evidence that you may get sick soon. So if your family has a history of heart disease, cancer, or another unpredictable prognosis, you’ll likely have to pay more to cover that potential risk.
If you don’t have enough time to pay into the investment to offset the loss, the insurer won’t see any value in doing business with you.
Read more:
- How To Get Life Insurance With a Stroke History
- How To Get Life Insurance With a Kidney Transplant History
High-Risk Occupation
Since insurers care about things that pose a risk to your life, the underwriter will spend time gathering information about your job as well. If you work in a field that has a high fatality rate, insurers will most likely look at that negatively.
Those with dangerous jobs put their lives on the line to keep us all going along, and we are grateful for it. That being said, it might be worthwhile to take a look at jobs that could raise your life insurance premium.
These policies are specifically geared towards that industry and offer coverage that’s more affordable than you would get from an individual policy.
That being said, some jobs are more hazardous than others. Some examples include trash and recycling collectors, roofers, pilots and flight engineers, logging workers, and individuals who work in the fishing industry.
Read More: Does your job affect your life insurance?
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High-Risk Hobbies
Just like your occupation, what you do in your free time could cause an insurance underwriter to raise your premiums if you’re up to any risky activity.
If you don’t report these activities to your insurer and you perish while doing them, your family may not receive the death benefit because of your dishonesty.
Smoker? Term life insurance e-cigarette use and tobacco use may raise rates. Tobacco use may even cause you to pay twice as much on your premiums when paired with your age.
This is because of the known effects and dangers of tobacco use. With the new research surfacing surrounding the dangers of using e-cigarettes, some insurers will classify you as a smoker or put you in another more expensive category.
Adrenaline junkies should watch out because extreme sports and other risk-taking behaviors will land you with high premiums or no policy at all. (For more information, read our “Life Insurance for Extreme Sports“).
This includes things such as skydiving, base jumping, rock climbing, and anything that can leave you with little or no protection from the consequences.
How to Get the Best Life Insurance Rates
When it comes to getting the best rate, it isn’t overly complicated. Plus, everything you do to lower your premiums will benefit your health in the long run anyway.
Since the insurer bases your premiums on your risk of death, you should do everything you can do to extend your life.
There are a few things you can do to get better rates:
- Cut out the junk food and sugary drinks as much as possible.
- Hit the gym to get healthier and increase your heart health.
- Quit or limit your bad habits, such as smoking and excessive drinking.
- Limit risk-taking behaviors or take extra safety precautions.
While all these are important and will certainly help you lower your rates, just starting your policy earlier will already save you more no matter your other risk categories.
The longer that you have to pay your policy, the longer the insurance agency can collect your premiums. If they don’t think they will have to pay out during the policy due to your death, that equals profit for them.
Does term life insurance have living benefits?
There are a lot of companies that offer this program with their base term policies. If you have less than two years left to live, you can claim a portion of the death benefit to take care of any medical bills or expenses that come up.
These term policies usually have fees or restrictions baked in, so you should be sure of all the conditions before you sign that dotted line. Many companies have a living benefit life insurance option. What is a living benefit option?
This option is designed to help customers get benefits even though they haven’t died, thankfully. Many times this comes in the form of a rider.
Riders
If your term policy doesn’t offer an accelerated death benefit, you’ll have to pay extra to add it as a rider to your policy. What is a living benefit rider on life insurance?
It’s essentially an extra clause added to your typical term life insurance policy. Make sure you know the conditions and fees associated with your rider to keep from getting surprised later on.
In some cases, even if your policy already offers an accelerated death benefit, you can add a rider to double your coverage.
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What are the pros and cons of living benefits life insurance?
Whether you should get a term life policy with an accelerated death or living benefit depends on your life and what you think your future may hold. With it being such a sensitive topic, it’s wise to weigh both the positives and negatives.
Life Insurance with Living Benefits Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
May be included in base policy | If not included, there will be an add-on cost |
Allows a portion of death benefit to be used for medical expenses | Less money is available for funeral costs after death |
Money goes directly to insured or their beneficiary | Amount is based on medical condition not financial need |
While you can get an add-on rider with almost any insurer, you’ll save much more if you can find a company that includes living benefits with your base policy.
How does term life insurance help the living?
Okay, so you’re alive, and you want to keep it that way. After all, you still have places to see, things to do, people to love. Fair enough. How can term life insurance help you with this? Life insurance for the living — sounds like an oxymoron, right?
Term life insurance is ideal for protecting your family financially if you pass away. But what about protecting your family in the event of a critical or chronic illness such as a heart attack, stroke, or cancer?
Would you have the funds to cover those unexpected medical expenses or the lost income you would suffer? Sure, you can buy separate policies to cover those situations. But what if you could get one policy to cover it all: death, terminal, critical, and chronic illness?
Well — you can.
What is term life insurance?
If life insurance was like ice cream, term life insurance would be the flavor vanilla. And that’s a good thing — for several reasons. First, it’s the most basic, simple, and pure form of life insurance protection you can buy. No frills, no thrills.
Second, because you only get what you need, you don’t have to pay for those extra frills and thrills. And finally, vanilla is the most popular flavour of ice cream, according to The Food Channel.
Life insurance companies continue to add additional benefits to their term life policies to spice them up and make them more attractive to you. This, too, can be a good thing.
We’re talking about goodies like accelerated death benefits, disability waivers, and conversion options. Think of these added benefits as the sprinkles or mini M&Ms on top. And the best part — they’re included for free!
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What are living benefits?
Perhaps the best “topping” of all is living benefits from Transamerica Life Insurance Company. They are exactly what the name implies: Life insurance with benefits you can use while you are still living.
Living benefits are similar to accelerated death benefits. Both offer access to your policy’s death benefit (aka coverage amount or face amount) to cover things such as terminal illness.
Hence the word “accelerated.” These benefits are provided to you early, and your new death benefit amount is reduced by the amount taken, applied interest, and administrative fees.
“Whoa, wait a minute,” you say? “If they are the same, what makes living benefits so special then?”
Glad you asked. Accelerated death benefits are more restrictive in that many companies make them available only in the case of a terminal illness. This means you must be diagnosed by a licensed physician as having a reduced life expectancy — say, six months for example.
Living benefits shine here because they can be used for terminal illnesses as well as critical and chronic illnesses. So you don’t necessarily have to be on your deathbed to get the money you need.
Perhaps you had prolonged treatment for cancer, or you require nursing care because you are not able to perform two or more activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, or eating.
How much cash are we talking about here?
Sorry, there’s no easy answer for this one. Like many things, there are several factors at play here, such as:
- The policy face amount you choose to accelerate
- Your life expectancy as determined by the life insurance company
- The accelerated benefit interest rate
- Administrative fees
The benefit is based on the severity of the illness and the impact on remaining life expectancy. Here’s an example of how it would look for a $200,000 term life policy with 90% acceleration ($180,000).
Average Life Insurance Living Benefits Based on Age, Gener, and Class
Age | Gender | Class | Amount of Insurance |
---|---|---|---|
25 | Female | Super Preferred | $1,370,000.00 |
25 | Female | Standard | $600,000.00 |
25 | Male | Super Preferred | $1,095,000.00 |
25 | Male | Standard | $480,000.00 |
35 | Female | Super Preferred | $1,165,000.00 |
35 | Female | Standard | $455,000.00 |
35 | Male | Super Preferred | $1,010,000.00 |
35 | Male | Standard | $410,000.00 |
45 | Female | Super Preferred | $455,000.00 |
45 | Female | Standard | $225,000.00 |
45 | Male | Super Preferred | $350,000.00 |
45 | Male | Standard | $160,000.00 |
Exploring Mortgage Insurance with Living Benefits
Mortgage insurance with living benefits is an innovative type of coverage that not only provides financial protection for your mortgage in case of death but also offers access to funds during your lifetime if you experience a qualifying event such as a terminal illness, critical illness, or disability. This feature, often included in mortgage protection insurance with living benefits, allows homeowners to access a portion of the death benefit while still alive, providing financial relief for medical expenses or other needs. The primary advantage is the immediate support available during difficult times, which can help maintain mortgage payments and prevent the loss of a home. However, the mortgage protection insurance with living benefits pros and cons must be considered carefully; while the living benefits offer valuable support, they can also lead to higher premiums and a reduced death benefit.
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National Life Group’s Living Benefits and Reviews
National Life Group living benefits are a key feature of their life insurance offerings, providing policyholders with options to access funds in the event of a serious illness or injury. These benefits are designed to provide financial flexibility and support during challenging times, helping policyholders manage medical expenses, lost income, or other financial burdens. The company’s approach to living benefits is well-regarded, as reflected in National Benefit Life Insurance Company reviews, where customers frequently praise the comprehensive coverage and responsive customer service. National Life Group’s commitment to providing living benefits sets them apart in the industry, offering peace of mind to those seeking more than just a traditional death benefit in their insurance policy.
Case Studies: Real-Life Examples of Living Benefits Life Insurance in Action
Case Study 1: Chronic Illness Accelerated Death Benefits Rider
John, a 45-year-old married individual with two young children, had a term life insurance policy with a chronic illness accelerated death benefits rider. One day, he was diagnosed with a chronic medical condition that required ongoing medical care and made it difficult for him to work.
As the medical bills started piling up, John faced financial hardship and was concerned about providing for his family. Fortunately, John’s life insurance policy with the chronic illness accelerated death benefits rider allowed him to access a portion of the death benefit while he was still alive.
This living benefit provided him with a lump sum payment, which he used to cover his medical expenses, maintain his family’s standard of living, and avoid falling into debt. The living benefit relieved the financial burden on John’s family during a challenging time and allowed him to focus on his health and well-being.
Case Study 2: Critical Illness Accelerated Death Benefits Rider
Sarah, a 35-year-old self-employed professional, held a term life insurance policy with a critical illness accelerated death benefits rider. One day, she received the devastating news that she had been diagnosed with cancer.
The diagnosis not only shook her emotionally but also raised concerns about her ability to work and support herself during the treatment process.
Thankfully, Sarah’s life insurance policy with the critical illness accelerated death benefits rider came to her aid. Upon diagnosis of the covered critical illness, Sarah received a living benefit payment from her policy.
This lump sum allowed her to undergo specialized medical treatment, seek second opinions, and cover her everyday living expenses while she focused on her recovery. The living benefit provided Sarah with a safety net, offering financial support during a difficult time when her income was affected by her illness.
Case Study 3: Terminal Illness Accelerated Death Benefits Rider
Michael, a 55-year-old retiree, had a term life insurance policy with a terminal illness accelerated death benefits rider. Several years into his retirement, Michael received a terminal diagnosis that gave him a short life expectancy. He was concerned about leaving behind significant debts and being a burden to his family.
With the terminal illness accelerated death benefits rider in his life insurance policy, Michael was able to access a portion of his death benefit to address urgent financial matters and fulfill his end-of-life wishes. He used the living benefit to settle his debts, ensure his family’s financial stability after he was gone, and plan for his final expenses.
The living benefit eased Michael’s worries about leaving behind a financial burden, allowing him to focus on spending quality time with his loved ones during his remaining days.
And It’s Mine … to Keep?
Yes, your benefit is yours to keep. It is not a loan, and you do not have to repay it to the life insurance company. You can pay for medical care and treatment, in-home nursing care, or medical supplies and equipment.
You can also use the funds to replace the lost income and help with non-medical-related bills and expenses. The money is yours to use as you wish.
Also, depending on how much you accelerate, you will still have some death benefits leftover on your life insurance policy for your beneficiaries.
Keep in mind that a return of premium is a different type of rider that also can help you financially. What happens if I live past my term life insurance? You’ll want a return of premium rider if you think this is possible.
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Term Life Insurance With Living Benefits: What’s the bottom line?
When deciding to get insurance for your family, you want to make sure that anything the unpredictable future might bring is covered. Whether it be a fatal injury or unforeseen illness, you want to make sure that you don’t encounter any urgent medical expenses.
While this type of benefit is very helpful for covering unexpected expenses, it may be subject to only cover certain illnesses.
You may also classify for a percentage of the death benefit early and the lump sum can even cause issues if you receive any social assistance.
If you can get a policy that includes the living benefits at no additional cost, you’ll get a bonus for your life insurance coverage. If you can’t find a policy you like with the accelerated death benefit built-in, you can add a rider for an additional cost.
You may also want to search “life benefit insurance” but you’ll probably yield better results from auto insurance companies if you speak with them directly.
If you’re worried about the potential for illness, such as with family history or warning signs, this policy will help you make sure that you leave no bills behind while you focus on spending your final days in peace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Living Benefits Life Insurance?
Living Benefits Life Insurance, also known as accelerated death benefits, is a type of life insurance policy that provides policyholders with the option to access a portion of their death benefit while they are still alive. It allows individuals to receive financial assistance to cover medical expenses or other costs in the event of a qualifying critical illness, chronic illness, or terminal illness.
What are the advantages of Living Benefits Life Insurance?
Living Benefits Life Insurance offers several advantages:
- Financial support during a critical, chronic, or terminal illness: It provides policyholders with access to funds to cover medical expenses, caregiving costs, or other financial obligations.
- Flexibility and control: Policyholders have the flexibility to choose how to use the accelerated death benefit funds based on their needs.
- Preservation of assets: By using the living benefits, policyholders can avoid tapping into other assets or savings, preserving them for other purposes or for the beneficiaries.
- Peace of mind: Having access to living benefits can provide emotional comfort and financial security during challenging times.
What types of illnesses are typically covered under Living Benefits Life Insurance?
The specific illnesses covered may vary depending on the insurance policy and provider. However, common illnesses that may be covered include:
- Critical illnesses: Such as heart attack, stroke, cancer, organ transplant, kidney failure, paralysis, and major organ failure.
- Chronic illnesses: Including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and certain types of heart disease.
- Terminal illnesses: Diagnoses that give the policyholder a limited life expectancy, usually defined as 12 to 24 months.
Are living benefits taxable?
Generally, living benefits paid out due to a qualifying illness are not subject to federal income tax. However, tax laws can be complex, and it’s essential to consult with a tax professional to underst
Can the living benefits be added to any life insurance policy?
Not all life insurance policies include living benefits. Living benefits are typically available as a rider or add-on feature to a life insurance policy. It’s important to check with the insurance provider to determine if this option is available and the associated costs.
What is quality of life insurance?
Quality of life insurance refers to life insurance policies that include features or riders designed to provide financial benefits to policyholders while they are still alive. These benefits can include coverage for chronic illnesses, critical illnesses, or long-term care needs, improving the insured’s quality of life during challenging times.
What is term life insurance with living benefits?
Term life insurance with living benefits is a type of term life policy that includes options for the policyholder to access a portion of the death benefit while still alive, in the event of a terminal, critical, or chronic illness. This feature provides financial support for medical expenses or other needs during the policyholder’s lifetime.
What is the advantage of adding a children’s term rider?
Adding a children’s term rider to a life insurance policy provides coverage for the policyholder’s children. It offers a death benefit if a covered child passes away, which can help with funeral expenses and other costs. It also allows the child to convert the coverage into a permanent policy later in life, regardless of their health status.
What is the purpose of having an accelerated death benefit?
The purpose of an accelerated death benefit is to allow policyholders to access a portion of their life insurance death benefit early if diagnosed with a terminal illness, critical illness, or other qualifying condition. This benefit can help cover medical bills, living expenses, or other costs associated with the illness.
What life insurance can you use while alive?
Life insurance policies with living benefits, such as whole life, universal life, variable universal life, and some term life policies, can provide financial benefits while the policyholder is still alive. These benefits can include cash value withdrawals, policy loans, and accelerated death benefits.
What is living benefits life insurance?
Living benefits life insurance includes features or riders that allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit or other funds while they are still alive, typically due to illness or other qualifying conditions. These benefits provide financial support during times of need.
What is considered to be a living benefit option in a life insurance policy?
Living benefit options in a life insurance policy include accelerated death benefits, chronic illness riders, critical illness riders, long-term care riders, and cash value access. These options allow policyholders to use a portion of the policy’s benefits while still alive for various purposes.
What is life insurance used for while alive?
Life insurance can be used while alive to access living benefits, such as covering medical expenses, long-term care costs, or other financial needs during a serious illness. Additionally, policies with cash value components can provide loans or withdrawals for other financial purposes.
How do I know if I qualify for living benefits?
Qualification for living benefits typically depends on the specific terms of the life insurance policy and the policyholder’s health condition. Generally, if diagnosed with a terminal, critical, or chronic illness, the policyholder may qualify. It is essential to review the policy details and consult with the insurance provider for specific eligibility criteria.
How do living benefits work in life insurance?
Living benefits in life insurance allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit or other funds if they experience a qualifying event, such as a terminal or critical illness. The policyholder can use these funds for medical expenses, daily living costs, or other financial needs. The amount accessed is usually deducted from the eventual death benefit.
How does life insurance work while you’re alive?
While alive, life insurance policies with living benefits or cash value components can provide financial support. Policyholders can access cash value through loans or withdrawals, use accelerated death benefits in case of illness, or leverage policy riders for specific needs like long-term care.
How might an insurance company classify an accidental death benefit on a life policy?
An insurance company typically classifies an accidental death benefit as an additional payout on top of the standard death benefit if the insured’s death results from an accident. This benefit is often available as a rider and provides extra financial protection in the event of accidental death.
Is life insurance death benefit taxable?
In most cases, life insurance death benefits are not taxable to the beneficiaries. The proceeds are generally received income tax-free, allowing beneficiaries to use the full amount without tax deductions. However, there are some exceptions, such as when the policy has been sold or transferred for value, or if the death benefit is paid out in installments, where the interest portion may be taxable.
Is life insurance with living benefits worth it?
Life insurance with living benefits can be worth it for many individuals, as it provides additional financial security and flexibility. Living benefits allow policyholders to access a portion of the death benefit while alive in cases of terminal, chronic, or critical illness, offering financial support for medical expenses and other costs.
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Tracey L. Wells
Licensed Insurance Agent & Agency Owner
Tracey L. Wells is a licensed insurance agent and Farmers insurance agency owner with 23 years of experience. He is proud to be a local Farmers agent serving Grayson, Georgia and surrounding areas. With experience as both an underwriter and agent, he provides his customers with insight that others agents may not have. His agency offers all lines of insurance including home, life, auto, RV, busi...
Licensed Insurance Agent & Agency Owner
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