Finding the right life insurance policy can be confusing. Before committing to a plan, you need to learn about all of your options, and know what your life insurance quotes are based on.
The first thing to consider is what type of insurance you need: term or whole life insurance. Term insurance is usually less expensive, and is best for people with dependents who won't rely on their support forever. The insurance is purchased for a specified period of time, and ends when the dependents are expected to be self-sufficient. Whole life insurance provides coverage from the day the plan is purchased until death, regardless of when that is.
Next, you need to look at how much coverage you need. This number varies significantly for everyone, and has a huge impact on the life insurance quotes you are given. Start by determining how many dependents you have, and how much money each of them needs annually. Remember to consider how the amount of money they need might change over time; for example, a child who is in kindergarten now may need more support when they are college-age. Add the yearly number for each dependent together for the number of years you will need coverage. When determining how much life insurance you need this should be a good starting point.
The life insurance quotes you are given are largely based on your individual circumstances. The biggest factors taken into consideration are your age, and your current health. Conditions like asthma, high blood pressure, a previous heart attack and diabetes, for example, will likely raise your premium. Your lifestyle also plays a part. If you are in a high-risk occupation, you will likely pay more. If you've been in a lot of car accidents that also makes you a higher risk, and you will end up paying more. If you smoke or drink, that too will raise the cost. Alternatively the price of you insurance will be lower if you lead a healthy lifestyle. Lower insurance quotes will usually be given to someone who works out regularly, for example, as they will look good to insurance companies.
Buying life insurance can seem complicated, but it doesn't have to be. The best way to get a great deal is to shop around. Different companies offer different policies, and by acquiring multiple quotes you are sure to get a plan that works for you at a price that works for you.