Life Insurance 101: Term vs. Permanent — Which One Do You Need?
- Ryan Arisumi
- Jun 16
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 18
Life insurance isn't just about death. It's about protection, peace of mind, and building financial strength for those you love. But one of the biggest questions people face is:
Should I get term life insurance or permanent life insurance?
Let’s break it down — without the jargon.
📌 What Is Term Life Insurance?
Coverage for a set number of years (10, 20, or 30)
Lower cost when you're young and healthy
Pays a death benefit only if you pass away or be diagnosed with a qualifying illness during the term
No cash value
✅ Best for: Budget-conscious people, temporary needs (like covering a mortgage or raising kids)
📌 What Is Permanent Life Insurance?
Lifelong coverage (as long as premiums are paid)
Builds cash value over time (you can borrow or withdraw from it)
Can provide living benefits if structured properly
Higher premiums, because a portion goes into the cash value
✅ Best for: Legacy building, tax-advantaged savings, long-term wealth strategies
💡 The Hidden Power of Permanent Insurance
Permanent life insurance can be a wealth-building tool — not just a safety net. When structured with:
Living benefit riders
Indexed growth potential
Tax-free loans
…it becomes a private reserve of capital you can use for emergencies, retirement, or funding your family bank.
🤔 So… Which Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
Do I just need coverage only for the next 10–30 years?
Or do I want my policy to grow with me and become part of my financial plan?
In many cases, a hybrid approach works best: start with term, then convert or layer in permanent coverage as your income and responsibilities grow.
🧠 Final Thought:
Insurance is not a one-size-fits-all product. But the right policy can be the difference between a temporary solution and lifelong security.
If you’re not sure what’s right for you — I can help. Let’s build a plan that protects what matters most.
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