Term insurance is a type of life insurance that provides financial protection for a specific period or "term" — usually 10, 20, or 30 years. If the policyholder dies during the term, a lump-sum death benefit is paid to the beneficiaries. If the policyholder outlives the term, there is typically no payout or cash value.
Key Features of Term Insurance
Fixed Premiums: You pay a regular premium (monthly, quarterly, or annually).
Fixed Term: Coverage lasts for a set period — e.g., 10, 20, or 30 years.
Death Benefit Only: Pure protection with no investment or savings component.
No Maturity Value: If the policyholder survives the term, no money is returned (unless it's a return-of-premium variant).
Benefits of Term Insurance
Affordability
Term insurance offers high coverage at low premiums, making it budget-friendly — especially for young families.
Financial Security for Loved Ones
Ensures your family is financially protected if something happens to you — helps cover living expenses, debts, education costs, etc.
Simplicity
Easy to understand with straightforward terms and coverage.
Flexibility
You can choose the term length based on your needs (e.g., covering a mortgage period or until your kids are financially independent).
Tax Benefits (varies by country)
Premiums paid and death benefits received may be eligible for tax exemptions under local tax laws.
Optional Riders
Add-ons like critical illness cover, accidental death benefit, or disability rider for enhanced protection.
Who Should Consider Term Insurance?
Young adults starting a family
People with dependents (spouse, kids, aging parents)
Homeowners with a mortgage
Anyone looking for affordable life cover with no investment tie-in