If your family relies on your income, it’s critical to consider having enough life insurance to provide for them after you pass away. But too often, life insurance is an overlooked aspect of personal finances.<\/p>\n
In fact, according to a 2023 study conducted by Life Happens and LIMRA, which closely follows life insurance trends, nearly 50 percent of Americans say that they have no life insurance coverage at all, even though 39% say they intend to obtain life insurance coverage within the next year.1<\/sup><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> Role of Life Insurance<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div> If your family relies on your income, it’s critical to consider having enough life insurance to provide for them after you pass away. But too often, life insurance is an overlooked aspect of personal finances.<\/p>\n In fact, according to a 2023 study conducted by Life Happens and LIMRA, which closely follows life insurance trends, nearly 50 percent of Americans say that they have no life insurance coverage at all, even though 39% say they intend to obtain life insurance coverage within the next year.1<\/sup><\/p>\n<\/div> Rule of Thumb<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div> One widely followed rule of thumb for estimating a person’s insurance needs is based on income. One broad guide suggests a person may need a life insurance policy valued at five times their annual income. Others recommend up to ten times one’s annual income.<\/p>\n If you are looking for a more accurate estimate, consider completing a “DNA test.” A DNA test, or Detailed Needs Analysis, takes into account a wide range of financial commitments to help better estimate insurance needs.<\/p>\n<\/div> The first step is to add up needs and obligations. (mouse over\/tap)<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> Which funds will need to be available for final expenses? These may include the costs of a funeral, final medical bills, and any outstanding debts, such as credit cards or personal loans. How much to make available for short-term needs will depend on your individual situation.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> How much will it cost to maintain your family’s standard of living? How much is spent on necessities, like housing, food, and clothing? Also, consider factoring in expenses, such as travel and entertainment. Ask yourself, “what would it cost per year to maintain this current lifestyle?”<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> What additional expenses may arise in the future? What family considerations will need to be addressed, especially if there are young children? Will aging parents need some kind of support? How about college costs? Factoring in potential new obligations allows for a more accurate picture of ongoing financial needs.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> Next, subtract all current assets available.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div> Any assets that can be redeemed quickly and for a predictable price are considered liquid. Generally, houses and cars are not considered liquid assets since time may be required to sell them. Also, remember that selling a home may adjust a family\u2019s current standard of living.Short-Term Needs<\/h2><\/div><\/div>
Long-Term Needs<\/h2><\/div><\/div>
New Obligations<\/h2><\/div><\/div>
Liquid Assets<\/h2><\/div><\/div>
\nNeeds and obligations \u2013 minus liquid assets \u2013 can help you get a better idea of the amount of life insurance coverage you may need. While this exercise is a good start to understanding your insurance needs, a more detailed review may be necessary to better assess your situation.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>1. LIMRA.com, 2023<\/strong><\/em><\/pre>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
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