Avoid these three life insurance mistakes

Buying a life insurance policy is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family's financial future. It can also be one of the most confusing tasks.

The following are some mistakes to avoid when buying a life insurance policy:

Mistake No. 1:
Procrastination is by far the most common mistake made by the majority of people. Most assume that it is either too expensive or that they don't need coverage because they are young. Neither situation could be further from the truth.

Term life insurance is especially affordable, with policies starting at under $20 per month. As for age, the best time to purchase a life insurance policy is when you are young and healthy. Not only does it ensure that you will get the best rates possible, but it provides valuable protection for growing families that are not yet financially secure.

Mistake No. 2:
Purchasing the wrong policy is another common error. Life insurance is a complex topic with long-term implications, so it's a good idea to take your time and speak with an insurance agent about all your options. Cost, coverage, duration, tax consequences and other considerations should be addressed for your specific situation. Term, whole life and universal are just a few of the options available, so weigh your options wisely.

Mistake No. 3:
Not purchasing enough insurance can be a problem. It's easy to underestimate the cost of living when initially purchasing a life insurance policy. In addition to replacing an income or paying down mortgage and other debts, it's important to add in an inflation-adjusted cost-of-living increase plus extra expenses likely to be incurred in the event of a loss. Everything from yard care and maintenance to child care and tutoring may need to be supplemented in the event of the death of a spouse. Tally up the total cost--plus inflation--for all the services and support provided by the insured person and then use it as your starting place when obtaining a quote.

Life Insurance help?
Need help navigating through the complexities of selecting the right life insurance policy? Let Consumer United do the work for you. Contact our expert at 617-209-4299 or e-mail him at Aaron.Biedrzycki@consumerunited.com for a quote.