What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Universal Life Insurance? PDF Print E-mail
Written by Sean Johnson   
Tuesday, 19 April 2011 11:32
You need to understand what universal life is. These policies allow a certain amount of flexibility in how much and how often premiums go to the account. Some policies offer No Lapse Guarantees that will ensure the policy remains in effect, no matter how often you do or do not meet premiums. Some policies offer No Lapse Guarantees that will ensure the policy remains in effect, no matter how often you do or do not meet premiums. This guarantee will lower the amount of flexibility available to the policyholder in regards to making payments or investments.
by SeanJohnson


You need to understand what universal life is. These policies allow a certain amount of flexibility in how much and how often premiums go to the account. Some policies offer No Lapse Guarantees that will ensure the policy remains in effect, no matter how often you do or do not meet premiums. Some policies offer No Lapse Guarantees that will ensure the policy remains in effect, no matter how often you do or do not meet premiums. This guarantee will lower the amount of flexibility available to the policyholder in regards to making payments or investments.

Another advantage to universal life is they usually come with lower premiums than similar coverage in a whole life policy. This means it is a viable option for people of varying income levels. With the variable premium options, the premiums can vary dramatically over the life of the policy. The policyholder can increase or decrease the face value of the death benefit throughout the life of the policy. When increasing the value of the policy, some insurance companies may require evidence of insurability. This is one side of universal life insurance. Let's look at the other side.

It is important to look at both sides of universal life insurance before investing in a policy. While the policies offer flexibility when it comes to making payments, this flexibility can cause the policy to have funding issues. This can affect the death benefits and the cash value of the policy. Adding features like No Lapse Guarantee will increase the premiums required for the policy. The growth options for the policy are limited when compared to variable life policies.

Each person brings different considerations to any situations, even with choosing life insurance. If you cannot find the information you need on the internet, you should speak with insurance and tax experts to make sure it is a good investment for your situation. Using some time to find the right option will be a good way to ensure your future investment value. Balancing the benefits of universal life insurance requires an understanding of these policies.

Almost all policies come with a guaranteed death benefit minimum. A particular characteristic of this type of life insurance is the death benefit options available on different policies. Some only offer that benefit and no other over the life of the policy. However, many policies offer additional benefits on top of the death benefit. Others increase the death benefit each year the policy remains active. Still others add the cash value of the policy to the minimum death benefit.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.