Reassess Your Financial Plan During Life Insurance Awareness Month
Mike Frankos
September marks Life Insurance Awareness Month, presenting a timely opportunity to reassess financial plans. Life insurance can often bring about emotional and practical concerns. However, it should be viewed not as merely a precaution against tragedy, but as a proactive and intelligent component of long-term financial wellness.
Wealth Protection
Life insurance serves as a powerful tool for wealth protection. It can replace lost income and cover necessary expenses, offering a financial lifeline to families. According to LIMRA, 44% of U.S. households would experience financial difficulty within six months of the primary income earner's death, while 25% would face hardship within just a month. A robust life insurance policy can act as a shield during such challenging times.
Estate Planning
In estate planning, life insurance proceeds can assist heirs in covering estate taxes and other associated costs. This support allows the retention of valuable assets without the pressure to liquidate them, ensuring a smoother transition of wealth to future generations.
Debt Management
Life insurance policies can be tailored to manage debts effectively. Whether it's clearing a mortgage, handling credit card debt, or paying off loans, these policies safeguard families from potential financial burdens after the loss of a loved one.
Long-Term Security
Certain life insurance policies grow to have a cash value over time. This cash value can be tapped into for emergencies, funding college tuition, or even supplementing retirement income, offering long-term security and financial flexibility.
Coverage Guidance
Most financial experts recommend having life insurance coverage equal to eight to 10 times one's income. However, individual needs vary significantly, and it's essential to tailor coverage to one's specific circumstances for optimal protection.
Coverage Review Prompt
As life is dynamic, so are our financial needs. This makes a life insurance checkup wise, especially after major life events such as marriage, childbirth, or career changes. Currently, 42% of U.S. adults acknowledge the need for more life insurance or don't have any at all.
Reviewing your life insurance coverage is not just a smart move; it's a caring act for your family's future. Take the opportunity to evaluate your current coverage or start a conversation with a professional advisor today. It’s a step that reinforces your dedication to protecting your family's financial wellbeing.