Guide to Level Term Life Insurance

What is Level Term Life Insurance Coverage?

When researching "level term life insurance," users typically look for comprehensive details to help inform their insurance purchasing decisions. They want to grasp what level term life insurance is, how it works, why it's beneficial, and how much it costs.

So, let's review some specifics about level term life insurance, beginning with the definition and meaning.

Level term life insurance is a sub-category of term life insurance that provides a fixed death benefit and level premiums throughout the policy term. The term can typically range from 10 to 30 years, depending on the policyholder's needs and the insurer's offerings.

Level term life insurance is designed to maintain a constant premium payment throughout the policy's duration. Hence, unlike some other policy options where the premium may increase over time, level term life insurance ensures that your premium remains steady, adding to your budgeting convenience and financial predictability.

Picture level term life insurance as a steady companion – it promises a constant payout for your loved ones throughout the entire policy period. No matter if you pass away in the early years or the final stretch of your policy, the amount your beneficiaries receive remains the same.

You might also hear it referred to as level benefit term life insurance, emphasizing that the unchanging part of the policy is the death benefit, the money that goes to your loved ones when you're no longer around.

Request Your Level Term Life Insurance Quote

How Level Term Life Insurance Works

Here are key points about level term life insurance:

• Applications often require a life insurance physical examination.
• You choose the amount of insurance coverage and a length of policy duration, or term, which is typically 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30 years.
• Your insurance premiums stay level (the same, never increasing) for the entire policy term length that you choose.
• If you die while the life insurance policy is In Force, the insurer pays the death benefit proceeds to the beneficiaries listed on your policy.
• The death benefit is paid out to your beneficiaries tax-free.
• If you outlive the duration of your policy term, the life insurance coverage ends, with no payout of any benefits.
• Unless the policy can be renewed, you’ll need to buy another policy if you still need life insurance protection.

What makes level term life insurance stand out is the unchanged death benefit during the policy term. This means that whether you pass away in year one or year twenty of your policy, your beneficiaries would receive the same amount. It is this level of certainty that often provides peace of mind for those considering life insurance plans.

However, note that level term life insurance is purely death coverage. In other words, there are no investment components or cash value building up over time, like with some other life insurance types which charge higher premiums for that feature. 

Get a Free Level Term Life Insurance Quote

The Cost of Level Term Life Insurance

How Much Does Level Term Life Insurance Cost?

As we spoke earlier about the premiums and their consistency, it's crucial to note that the cost of these level term life insurance premiums varies.

Factors affecting your premium could include the policy term, amount of coverage, age, gender, health status, lifestyle choices, and even occupation.

You might be surprised at how affordable level term life insurance policies can be.

Here are some sample rates.

Sample Rates for Level Term Policies

Average Rates for a 40-Year-Old Male for $250,000 in Term Life Insurance

• 10 years - $16
• 15 years - $18
• 20 years - $21
• 30 years - $31

Average Rates for a 40-Year-Old Female for $250,000 in Term Life Insurance

• 10 years - $14
• 15 years - $17
• 20 years - $19
• 30 years - $25

Simply put, level term life insurance is often more budget-friendly than other life insurance options. Unlike permanent life insurance, which guarantees a payout as long as you keep paying premiums, term policies are not guaranteed to pay out.

Among term policies, level term life insurance is a bit pricier than decreasing term life insurance, where the death benefit decreases over time.

Apart from the type of policy you choose, there are other factors that influence the cost of life insurance:

• Age: In general, older individuals are considered to have a greater risk of mortality, making them more costly to insure. Consequently, many term life insurance providers set an age limit, typically around 80 years old, for potential applicants. Therefore, initiating a life insurance policy at a younger age might enable you to secure a more affordable insurance rate.
• Health: Just like being older, having poor health can also make you a riskier and pricier choice for life insurance. However, if you're effectively managing the health condition, there's still a chance to find coverage that won't break the bank.
• Gender: On average, men tend to have shorter lifespans than women, leading to slightly higher life insurance premiums for them. However, it's important to note that factors such as health and age generally have a much more significant impact on premium rates than gender does.
• Lifestyle and Job: Engaging in high-risk hobbies, such as scuba diving, mountain climbing or skydiving, could result in higher life insurance premiums for you. Likewise, having a high-risk occupation, like window cleaning or tree trimming, may also increase the cost of your life insurance coverage.

Compare Level Term Life Insurance Rates

The Pros and Cons of a Level Term Life Policy

Here are potential benefits and drawbacks to level term life plans:

Pros of Level Term:

• Level term life insurance is cost-effective and provides various term lengths to choose from. This allows you to purchase a policy that aligns with the specific time frame during which you require life insurance coverage.
• The consistent premiums ensure that there are no unexpected surprises when it comes to budgeting.
• Term life insurance doesn't accumulate any cash value, meaning your payments solely go toward securing life insurance protection.

Cons of Level Term:

• If you outlive the term of your current policy and still require life insurance, you'll need to purchase a new policy.
• When your policy expires, and if you need to get a new one, expect to pay more. This is because you'll be older, and there might be new health conditions, making the new policy more expensive.

Advantages of Level Term Life Insurance

• It’s predictable. If you pass away during the policy term, you and your beneficiaries already know the exact amount of money they'll receive. This certainty allows both you and them to make plans with a specific dollar amount in mind.
• It helps with budgeting. When your benefits stay steady, as is the case with level benefits, your premiums also stay consistent. This makes budgeting a breeze because the amount you pay for coverage remains the same each year, as long as you don't make any alterations to your policy.
• It can be cheaper in the long run.. Level term life insurance enables you to secure a fixed rate and coverage amount according to your present health status. If you're in your prime health years, this translates to the opportunity to obtain a decade, two decades, or even three decades of reasonably priced life insurance coverage.

How to Customize Coverage on Your Level Term Policy

Here are a few methods to include extra features in a level term life insurance policy:

Guaranteed Renewability Riders

With guaranteed renewability riders, you have the option to renew your policy at the term's conclusion, on a year-to-year basis.

However, be prepared for a potentially higher cost, and it could be significantly higher. Opting for guaranteed renewability might be a sensible choice if you've developed health conditions that would make purchasing a new policy too expensive.

Waiver of Premium Riders

A waiver of premium rider steps in to cover your policy payments if you face disability and can't work, ensuring your policy remains active.

Term life policies often come with a term life conversion option at no extra cost. This feature allows you to convert a portion or the entirety of your term life policy into permanent life insurance, like a universal life insurance policy.

Typically, there's a specific timeframe after purchasing the policy during which you can make this conversion. Some companies even offer an "extended conversion" rider, granting you more time to make the switch.

How to Buy Level Term Life Insurance Policies

Getting a level term life insurance policy is a simple process tailored to meet your specific financial needs and goals.

Here's a Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Coverage:

1. Assess Your Coverage Needs - Assess your financial situation to figure out how much coverage is needed to safeguard your dependents. Take into account debts, the need for income replacement, and future commitments such as education costs.
2. Choose the Term Length - Choose the term that aligns with the duration of your financial responsibilities. Common terms include 10, 15, 20, or 30 years
3. Shop Around for Quotes - Collect quotes from various insurance providers to compare rates. Get ready to share some personal information, like your health history and lifestyle habits.
4. Undergo a Medical Exam (If Required) - Certain insurers might ask for a medical examination to evaluate your health, and this evaluation can impact the rates you'll be charged for premiums.
5. Review Policy Details - Thoroughly review the policy's terms, which include the premium amounts, death benefit, and any exclusions or conditions.
6. Complete the Application - Complete the insurance application with precise information to prevent any problems with future claims.
7. Wait for Approval - The insurance company will assess your application and the results of the medical exam to determine if they will provide you with coverage and, if so, at what cost.
8. Sign the Policy and Make the First Payment - After receiving approval, sign the policy agreement, and make the initial premium payment to begin your coverage.

Start Your FREE Quote

Level Term Life versus Decreasing Term Life

The two primary types of term life insurance are level term and decreasing term. Both policies serve a specific purpose and cater to diverse financial needs.

Below is a comparison table which illustrates the pros and cons of each policy:

Advantages and Disadvantages

Level Term Life Insurance

Advantages:

• The death benefit is fixed throughout the policy term.
• Premiums remain constant throughout the policy term.
• More predictable and easier to budget.

Disadvantages:

• Premiums can be initially higher compared to decreasing term.
• If you outlive the policy term, no benefits are paid out.

Decreasing Term Life Insurance

Advantages:

• Initial premiums are usually lower than level term.
• Good for covering decreasing responsibilities, such as mortgages or loans.

Disadvantages:

• If you outlive the policy term, no benefits are paid out.
• The death benefit decreases over the policy term.
• The premium remains the same despite decreasing coverage.

In a decreasing term life insurance policy, the death benefit gradually reduces as the policy term advances. This decrease typically happens annually. Since the death benefit diminishes over time, these policies are usually more affordable than level term life policies.

On the flip side, level term life insurance maintains a constant death benefit throughout the policy term.

Decreasing term life insurance is suitable for individuals tackling substantial debts, such as a mortgage or business, where the balance is decreasing.

This type of insurance, often seen in mortgage life insurance, tends to be more cost-effective due to the diminishing payout.

Adjusting your death benefit involves different processes. If you want to increase coverage, it requires a reapplication, involving new forms and a medical exam. Reducing coverage is simpler; usually, you fill out a form, and the insurer provides a new payment plan.

For a more automated approach to reducing coverage, you can "ladder" your term insurance policies. This involves stacking up policies to reach your desired total coverage, lowering overall premiums.

For instance, you might have three term policies at the beginning, adding up to $500,000, each with different durations and face values. As these policies end at various times, the laddering system ensures automatic reductions in coverage as your needs decrease, leading to decreased overall premiums.

Given this comparison, why should you consider level term life insurance?

Many readers often find this type of insurance policy suits their needs due to several key reasons.

Firstly, level term life insurance is reliable and predictable. It provides a fixed death benefit, giving you the comfort of knowing exactly what you're paying for. It’s a straightforward policy type without the need to worry about variable factors or complex insurance jargon.

Secondly, level term life insurance enables precise budget management. Since the premium stays the same throughout the term, you can comfortably estimate your financial expenses without worrying about an unforeseen increase in your premium. This predictability makes it a suitable choice where consistency and stability are paramount.

Lastly, level term life insurance offers one of the best value for money in the term insurance category. With a fixed premium and a guaranteed death benefit, it provides comprehensive coverage compared to the decreasing term policy. For individuals with liability such as a home mortgage or a business loan where the responsibility remains constant over time, level term could be the ideal choice.

However, everyone's needs and financial contexts vary, so it's essential to thoroughly review both level term and decreasing term coverages to identify which type fits your personal circumstances.

Other Types of Term Life Insurance Policies

Annual Renewable Term Life Insurance

In this life insurance type, you have the option to renew annually, and your premium is likely to go up each time. The advantage is that you generally don't need to reapply or undergo another medical exam. It's most suitable for temporary coverage needs or as a stop-gap solution.

Return of Premium Term Life Insurance

With these plans, if you outlive the policy, you'll get back the premium you paid. However, because of this refund feature, these policies tend to be more costly upfront.

Simplified Issue Term Life Insurance

No medical exam is required to purchase these plans. However, they typically come with a higher cost and provide lower death benefits, usually ranging from $50,000 to $1,000,000. 

Alternatives to Level Term Life Insurance

For individuals whose insurance requirements may go beyond the set term of level term life insurance, exploring other options is a smart move to guarantee prolonged financial protection.

Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance, a form of permanent life insurance, provides a death benefit and accrues cash value over time. It offers a blend of financial security and the potential for accumulating cash.

Universal Life Insurance

Universal life insurance provides a flexible solution that can adapt to changing financial situations over a lifetime by allowing adjustments to premiums and death benefits.

Decreasing Term Life Insurance

Designed to align with the decreasing balance of commitments such as a mortgage, the death benefit in a decreasing term life insurance policy decreases over the term, while premiums remain the same.

Convertible Life Insurance

This choice allows you to convert your term policy into a permanent one, ensuring lifelong coverage without the need for additional health examinations.

Renewable Term Life Insurance

Suited for individuals requiring an extension of short-term coverage, this policy can be renewed at the term's conclusion without a medical exam, though premiums might rise.

Deciding If Level Term Life Insurance Is Right for You

You might now be wondering, "Is level term life insurance the right choice for me?"

While this decision is deeply personal and based on individual needs, there are a few typical scenarios where level term life insurance is highly beneficial:

1. If you have a mortgage or debt with fixed payments that need to be covered, level term insurance can provide the required coverage without worrying about decreasing benefits.
2. If you have children who will be going off to college someday, a level term policy can ensure that their educational expenses are taken care of, even in your absence.
3. Level premiums can be beneficial for those who prefer consistency in their budgeting and forecasting.

A level term life insurance policy can be a suitable choice for individuals raising families. In the unfortunate event of the insured parent's death, the death benefit could be used for essential expenses like school tuition payments, mortgage payments, and other crucial needs of a growing family.

Even for a young couple without immediate plans for children but who have recently purchased a home, opting for level term life coverage makes sense. Consider a scenario with a 30-year mortgage – a level term life insurance policy with a 30-year term could provide coverage for mortgage expenses if the insured spouse passes away.

To secure the most favorable deal on a level term life insurance policy, it's advisable to explore different options. Term life insurance quotes are readily available and free. After determining your preferred coverage amount and term length, simply compare prices for that specific coverage.

Knowing these specifics about level term life insurance, it's also essential to understand what happens at the end of the policy term. If you outlive the policy term, there are a few options.

Some plans may offer the option to renew the policy, but keep in mind that the new premium will be based on your age at the time of renewal, which means it will likely be higher than your original premium.

Another option could be converting the term insurance policy into a permanent or whole life insurance policy, if the insurance carrier allows. This way, your life insurance coverage will continue, and you may even be able to build cash value.

Compare Level Term Life Insurance Rates

Examples of When to Buy a Level Term Life Policy

1. Mortgage Protection for a Homeowner (Age 35) with 20-Year Level Term: Imagine this scenario – you and your spouse have just realized your dream of owning a home, complete with a backyard for family gatherings. By opting for a 20-year level term life insurance plan, you've taken a substantial measure to safeguard this haven. In the event of the unexpected occurring within the next two decades, the insurance payout guarantees that your loved ones won't bear the burden of the outstanding mortgage. It's not just about securing the home; it's about offering peace of mind and protecting the legacy you're constructing together.
2. College Fund Planning for a Young Family (Age 30) with 15-Year Level Term: Navigating the lively challenges of raising two young children, you're already thinking about their college future. Planning ahead with a 15-year level term life insurance policy, you're securing a path to higher education even if life takes an unexpected turn. Affordable premiums ensure that your children's dreams stay intact, offering a tangible way to fund their college education. It's a plan to protect and nurture aspirations, providing financial security for your family over the next 15 years.
3. Income Replacement for a Breadwinner (Age 40) with 30-Year Level Term: Being the pillar of your family, you work tirelessly to secure a comfortable lifestyle. Nights without sleep are accompanied by the worry of leaving your loved ones without your income. Introducing the 30-year level term life insurance – it comes with affordable premiums, a consistent coverage amount, and a reliable method to substitute your income. It's not just about the present; it's about safeguarding the future for the next three decades. This pragmatic and budget-friendly solution ensures that your family can uphold the life you've diligently built, honoring the dreams you collectively cherish.

Summary of Level Term Life Insurance

In conclusion, level term life insurance can provide valuable protection at an affordable price when you have financial responsibilities that won't decrease over time. It's reliable, easy to understand, and straightforward, making it a preferred choice among many.

However, it is advisable to chart yourself a plan, evaluating your family's needs, long-term obligations, and finances before you decide. Whether it's securing your loved ones' future or leaving behind a legacy, investing in level term life insurance could just provide the peace of mind you need.

Remember, the right fit in insurance is not solely about cost but is also about the perceived value and long-term benefits offered. Engage with insurance advisors, research, compare, and find the comfortable middle ground between your budget and your family’s safety.

It’s these informed decisions that help secure your loved ones’ futures even when the unexpected occurs. Request a free quote today and make a step towards safeguarding your family's financial stability.

Compare Level Term Life Insurance Rates

After understanding level term life insurance, it's time to explore how to compare rates and find the best price. The key here is to get as many quotes as possible from different insurers. Each insurer factors risk differently, so there could be significant variations in quotes.

Reliable comparison tools can be instrumental in leading you towards the best carriers with competitive rates.

When investigating insurers, look for companies that are financially stable and have a solid history of fulfilling their obligations to policyholders. A company’s financial stability will ensure that they have the resources to payout the death benefit if and when the need arises.

Level Term Life Insurance Quotes

Top Pick – JRC Insurance Group

JRC Insurance Group helps you shop, compare and save on life insurance. Regardless of your age or health background, we'll shop our 63 top life insurance companies and find you affordable life insurance you need to protect your family and fit your budget. Compare the best life insurance rates for savings up to 73%. Get Your FREE Quote.

Frequently Asked Questions About Level Term Life Insurance

Whether level term life insurance is right for you depends on your specific needs and circumstances.

What is Level Term Life Insurance?

Level term life insurance is a specific type of term life insurance policy. In this plan, both the death benefit and the premium remain constant throughout the policy's term, typically set at 10 years, 20 years, or 30 years.

What is the Best Level Term Life Insurance Company?

Identifying the best life insurance company and policy is subjective and depends on the individual, their specific rating factors, and their policy requirements. While life insurance quotes don't show as much variation across carriers as home or auto insurance, comparing quotes can assist you in discovering a company that provides the policy type and additional features you require, all within a budget that suits your financial plan.

How Do I Buy Level Term Life Insurance?

The initial step is figuring out the purpose of the policy and establishing your budget. Once you have a clear idea of your preferences, it's advisable to compare quotes and policy options from multiple companies. While some companies provide online quoting for life insurance, others may necessitate reaching out to an agent through phone or in-person contact. Following the application process, if your application gets approval, your policy will usually become effective upon the payment of your first installment.

What Does 10-year Level Term Life Insurance Mean?

Opting for a 10-year level term life insurance policy implies that, as long as you keep up with your premium payments, you'll have life insurance coverage for a decade. During this time, both the premium and death benefit remain consistent. In the unfortunate event of your passing within this 10-year span, your beneficiaries will receive the agreed-upon death benefit. However, unless you decide to renew, extend, or convert your level term policy into a permanent one, your life insurance contract will come to an end after the 10-year duration.

Should I Get Level Term Life Insurance?

Consider level term life insurance if you are married, have children, have a home mortgage loan, are the main breadwinner of your family, have an income your family depends on, or provide financial support to other family members.

Compare Level Term Life Insurance Rates

Level Term Life Insurance | Life Insurance Quotes

Level Term Life Insurance for Mortgage Protection

Can I Buy Level Term Life Insurance Coverage?

Level Term Life Insurance No Medical Exam

Level Term Life Insurance for Seniors

Globe Life Insurance