Shreveport Life Insurance Basics: What is a Whole Life Policy?

Whole life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance that provides lifelong coverage and a cash value component. The cash value grows on a tax-deferred basis, meaning policyholders do not have to pay taxes on the investment gains until they withdraw the funds.

Here are some of the key features of whole life insurance:

• Lifelong coverage: Whole life insurance provides coverage for the policyholder’s entire life, as long as premiums are paid.
• Cash value: A portion of the premium payments is invested in a cash value account, which grows over time. The policyholder can access the cash value through withdrawals or loans.
• Death benefit: Upon the policyholder’s death, the death benefit is paid to the beneficiaries. The death benefit amount is typically equal to the premiums paid plus the accumulated interest and investment gains.
• Dividends: Some whole life insurance policies offer dividends, which are shares of the insurance company’s profits distributed to policyholders. Dividends can be reinvested in the policy, used to purchase additional coverage, or taken as cash.

Whole life insurance can be a good option for people who want lifelong coverage, the potential for building cash value, and the possibility of receiving dividends. However, it is important to note that whole life insurance is a more expensive type of life insurance than term life insurance.

Who Should Consider Whole Life Insurance?

Whole life insurance can be a good option for people who:

• Want lifelong coverage.
• Are looking to build cash value.
• Are willing to pay higher premiums.
• May need to borrow against the cash value in the future.
• Are interested in receiving dividends.

Who Should Not Consider Whole Life Insurance?

Whole life insurance may not be a good option for people who:

• Need a policy with a shorter term.
• Are not comfortable with the higher premiums.
• Do not need the cash value or do not plan to borrow against it.
• Do not want to be locked into a policy for the long term.

Choosing a Whole Life Insurance Policy

When choosing a whole life insurance policy, it is important to consider the following factors:

• The premiums: Whole life insurance premiums are typically higher than term life insurance premiums.
• The cash value: The growth rate of the cash value will vary depending on the policy.
• The death benefit: The death benefit amount should be enough to cover the policyholder’s financial obligations.
• The dividends: Some policies offer dividends, while others do not.
• The surrender charges: Surrender charges are fees that are assessed if the policy is surrendered early.

It is also important to speak with a financial advisor to get personalized advice on whether whole life insurance is right for you.

Watley Insurance Group Can Help

If you are considering whole life insurance, Watley Insurance Group can help you understand the different options available and choose a policy that meets your needs. We have a team of experienced agents who can help you assess your financial goals and recommend a policy that is right for you.

To learn more about whole life insurance or to get a quote, contact Watley Insurance Group today.

We are here to help our neighbors in the Ark-La-Tex area and Shreveport, Louisiana.