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Selecting Right Term Insurance: Critical Factors to Consider

Updated on: 20 January,2025 04:20 PM IST  |  Mumbai
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Selecting the right term insurance is a vital step in safeguarding your family’s financial future.

Selecting Right Term Insurance: Critical Factors to Consider

Term Insurance

Term insurance is an important tool when it comes to financial planning. It is one of the most straightforward and cost-effective ways to help your loved ones in your absence. With term insurance, you get high coverage at cost-effective premiums which makes it a popular choice among young individuals. However, there is a variety of term insurance policies in the market and selecting the right one can be exhausting. This article will help you in selecting the right term insurance while considering important factors.


1. Insurance Coverage

It is important to determine the coverage amount. The coverage amount should be enough to cover all the future needs of your family. To understand the coverage amount calculate your family’s financial needs, including all the daily expenses, children’s education, outstanding loans, medical expenses and more. 

A general guideline here would be to opt for coverage that is at least 10-15 times your annual income to provide good financial protection.

2. Policy Term

Select a policy term that aligns with your financial needs and liabilities. For example, if you plan to retire at 60, choosing a policy term that covers you until that age would be ideal.

3. Claim Settlement Ratio

The claim settlement ratio indicates the scope at which the insurer has settled the claims. A higher claim settlement ratio reflects the insurer's efficiency and commitment to honouring claims. It gives policyholders confidence that their claims are likely to be settled promptly and without hassle.

4. Premium Affordability

When choosing the term insurance, compare premiums on different policies and check whether they are affordable or not. Keep in mind that some insurers may charge an additional fee for monthly or quarterly premium payments, so it's important to choose a payment frequency that works best for you. Check if the policy allows flexible premium payment options such as regular, limited, or single pay. After considering all these things choose the one that aligns with your financial planning.

5. Riders and Add-Ons

Get better term insurance plans through critical illness coverage, accidental death benefits, waiver of premium, and income benefits. Carefully consider the additional cost of these riders compared to the possible benefits.

6. Tax Benefits

The premiums paid for term insurance are allowed under section 80C of the Income Tax Act and the death benefit is also tax-free under section 10(10D). Consider these tax benefits when assessing term insurance.

Key Tips for Selecting the Right Term Insurance

The following are the key tips to select the right term insurance:

1. Start Early to Lock in Lower Premiums: The term insurance premiums are generally lower when you start at a young age. That is because youngsters are recognised to be at lower health risks, reducing the insurer’s liability. By starting early, you can secure comprehensive coverage at an affordable cost, saving significantly over the policy's term.

2. Periodically Review Your Policy: Life circumstances change over time, such as marriage, having children, or taking on new financial responsibilities like a home loan. Regularly reviewing your policy ensures that your coverage remains adequate to meet these changing needs. Upgrading or modifying the policy at the right time prevents underinsurance.

3. Seek Expert Advice When Needed: Insurance terms and policies can be complex, and it’s easy to overlook critical details. Consulting an expert, such as a financial advisor or insurance agent, can help you understand the details and identify the best policy for your specific needs. Their guidance ensures you make a well-informed and confident decision.

Conclusion

Selecting the right term insurance is a vital step in safeguarding your family’s financial future. By carefully evaluating factors like insurance coverage, policy term, claim settlement ratio, premium affordability, and available riders, you can ensure comprehensive protection that aligns with your financial goals. 

When choosing an insurer, reliability and reputation matter. For instance, Tata AIA is a trusted name in the insurance industry, known for its customer-centric approach and high claim settlement ratio. With flexible plans, affordable premiums, and a wide range of riders, Tata AIA offers policies designed to meet diverse financial needs, making it a reliable choice for term insurance. 

Disclaimer: The information contained here is for informational purposes and not for financial or insurance advice. Term insurance needs vary with individual circumstances and must be obtained by consulting a licensed insurance advisor to tailor the policy according to individual needs.

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