Life Insurance Help

Get the facts

The basics of life insurance can be overwhelming understanding what amount of coverage is necessary. See our Life insurance cheatsheet as you compare free insurance quotes.

Getting organized

Beginning the quote process

Shop around for rates, Life insurance is a competitive marketplace, and much of the competition focuses on price. Don't hesitate to seek premium quotes from several different companies. Shop for your own needs, if term insurance fits, that's what you should shop for. If you want to lower your premium at all costs, you may want to consider using a direct writer or a company that cuts costs by operating without agents. Consider your own convenience, however: Do you want personal contact with an agent? Or if you buy an annuity, how fast can you get to your money in case of an emergency? If you are buying whole life, how fast does your money accumulate? What will the cash value be in one year? Three years? Ten years? Update your coverage as your circumstances change. Don't be misled by someone who tells you you should buy additional policies for children as they are born. Children rarely have an income and seldom require life insurance. But your situation may change dramatically from year to year. Review your net worth every few years and reconsider the prospects your survivors may face if you die. Know the company you are buying from. You can check the financial stability of any life insurance company through several reputable national rating companies. Some ratings are available at public libraries.