Advantages Of Having Life Insurance
Thursday, October 7th, 2010
This is a question that’s particularly tricky to answer and, unfortunately, there’s no hard and fast rule, every circumstance and every family is different. One factor that’s value noting is in the situation of an unexpected loss of life, more often than not no matter how much life insurance you have, it is likely that it is not enough.
In the case of a sudden loss of life in the loved ones the flow on effect can be significant. The psychological effect itself can be immeasurable. Then there is grief in which varied levels will affect those close to the deceased, depending on how close their relationship was. And lastly, there’s the healing phase in which the family must adjust to life without the missing family member.
How Does Having Life Insurance Make A Huge Difference?
Having life Insurance cannot help you through the above phases after the death of a family member – yet it can make a significant difference. If you have life insurance this will allow family members time to adjust to life moving forward less the stress of financial pressure associated with funeral or legal expenses.
They can continue paying monthly dues and the mortgage (all essentials having a life insurance plan will provide security for).
What Factors To Consider When Deciding How Much Life Insurance Is Required
When deciding how much life insurance you and your family need consider the following factors:
- All current debts (e.g. mortgage)
- Your monthly living expenses (especially if the individual with life insurance provides income for the household)
- Educational requirements for children in the future
- Funding for retirement
- Additions to the family unit – e.g. would you require a nanny or housekeeper
After considering the above factors it’s also worth while considering an additional cash buffer. This can be used in a variety of scenarios – e.g. an extended period of time absence from the workplace for a partner to adjust and spend quality time with family members – this can take some time.
Family holidays may also be considered, to bring family together and away from the usual daily routine, which will be no doubt be different now that a family member has gone.
In brief summary, the primary step is to figure out the appropriate level of life insurance cover for your own family. Remember to on a regular basis review your life insurance policy – this is significant as life is full of changes. For more detailed information and advice talk to an experienced insurance broker.
This article was written by Rhys Coffin, Internet Marketing specialist with Internet New Zealand Ltd.