Whole Life Insurance

Whole Life Insurance - Things You Need To Know

It is unfortunate that when you get a whole life insurance quote online much of the important details are omitted. The average person knows little or nothing about this policy. If people had more information they could make a more informed decision on what they are about to purchase. I am one of those who tout whole life insurance with no apology, as this policy has it's place in the insurance portfolio of many people. This policy fits some needs that term life insurance simply cannot fulfill.

Permanent Life Insurance

Whole life insurance can be described as permanent life insurance. This suggests that you can keep this policy for as long as you choose, even if it is to age 100. A term life policy simply cannot guarantee that.

Cash Values

Whole life insurance have what is called "guaranteed cash values". Some people like this idea because they may choose to use these values as a sort of saving to assist with the college costs or even for a supplemental retirement fund.

Whole Life Insurance Dividends

All whole life policies are not the same. Some life insurance companies have a great history of paying dividends to their policy owners on a very regular basis. This does not say that they always will be in a position to pay a dividend. Dividends are not guaranteed. There are some life insurance companies that do not perform very well.

If a life insurance company is generally successful with their investments and do a good job at keeping expenses down they usually can pay a dividend.

There are several options that you can choose from but most people have a tendency to apply their dividends to the purchase of "paid up additions". These are little single premium whole life insurance policies.

The other available dividend options areas follows. You can leave your dividends to accumulate interest or you can use them to reduce premiums. You can also take them in cash each year.

Why Cash Values And Dividends Are Important

If at some time in the future you should need to put your hands on some emergency cash and that money is available through your cash values plus dividends you may take a percentage of this in the form of a policy loan. Even though you decide how you repay this loan you need to keep in mind that there is interest charged on this loan. In addition the death benefit of your policy is reduced by the amount owed and any unpaid accumulated interest. Another thing to note is that if you have an outstanding loan on your whole life insurance policy the amount of dividend paid will also be affected.

Nonforfeiture Values

Another important consideration when buying whole life insurance policies are nonforfeiture values. These options allow you to protect yourself from loss in the event you are unable to continue premium payments.

Automatic Premium Loans

With most whole life insurance policies if a premium payment is missed the automatic premium loan is timely activated to prevent the policy from going into a state of lapse. In other words, you do not lose your insurance as long as there is sufficient cash value to keep it in force. Interest is charged on this amount just like any other premium loan.

Extended Term Insurance

Instead of using an automatic premium loan to keep your whole life insurance policy in force you may choose to use what is called Extended Term Insurance to keep the policy in force. This is a Term Life Insurance policy for as many years as the cash value of the policy will purchase. If you should die during this period the full face amount of the policy will be paid to your chosen beneficiary. The only disadvantage is that with this option your cash values plus any dividend earned will dissipate over time.

Reduced Paid Up Policy

Another option you have if you are unable to pay the premiums for your policy is to elect to keep a reduced amount of life insurance in force rather than the full amount you initially purchased. This policy, though for a reduced amount, will be fully paid up and you will never pay a premium again. The reduced death benefit will be paid upon the death of the insured.

Cash Surrender Value

You may also surrender your policy for its cash value plus any dividends as another option. If there is any outstanding indebtedness on the policy it will be deducted from the amount you receive.

Waiver Of Premium Rider

When purchasing your whole life insurance policy you have the option of adding the "waiver of premium rider" an a very minimal cost. You may find it beneficial as if you should become disabled the life insurance company will waive your premiums for as long as you are disabled even if it is for the rest of your life. You must, however, be disabled for a minimal period of time, usually six months. Whenever you are able to return to your job you continue payments of your policy. Nothing is owed for the period you didn't pay.

Accidental Death Benefit

Another valuable rider you can add to your whole life insurance policy is the "accidental death benefit rider". If you should die in an accident the life insurance company will pay twice the face amount to your beneficiaries. Some life insurance companies allow you to purchase an additional unit of the accidental death benefit rider. In other words, your family would receive three times the face amount of your whole life insurance policy if you died in an accident.

Whole life insurance premiums are higher than term life insurance premiums. If you feel the abovementioned benefits are worth the additional cost this type of life insurance may be for you.

For additional information information on whole life insurance go to:

http://www.lifeinsurancehub.net/whole-life-insurance.html

For more than 40 years Donald has been known for his extensive knowledge of the life insurance business. He has represented some of the largest and most admired life insurance companies in the United States as well as Canada. His advice is invaluable.

Donald's website is: http://www.lifeinsurancehub.net

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Why A Whole Life Insurance Online Quote

Why A Whole Life Insurance Online Quote

Why you should get a whole life insurance online quote. Separate and apart from the reasons you buy life insurance it may be worth a few minutes of your time to think about getting a whole life insurance online quote. You buy life insurance to protect your loved ones. You want to be assured that they can continue on after your death. You approach the task with great passion. This is very important to you. You want your insurance now.

For a long time the normal thing to do was to either call a life insurance agent who you knew or get in contact with one of the better known life insurance companies. You would set an appointment with an agent and proceed with your business from there.

The Internet has made things so much simpler. You no longer need to contact the insurance company or wait for an agent to come and see you. Anything can happen between the time you call them and the time you actually make the purchase. You, of course, could be dead by then but that is not the worse thing that could happen. The frightening fact is that you could be rendered disabled. This could come about by some ailment coming to light or it could be caused by some type of accident. If you are disabled you may be rated by the insurance company because you are disabled or your application could be declined by them.

You might decide you are going to take up a hazardous avocation like deep sea diving or automobile racing. These things can also cause you to get a rated policy or not get any insurance at all. Did you know that a student pilot is rated by most life insurance companies. Until you get to that level where you have sufficient hours in the air to make the insurance company feel comfortable about you life insurance can cost you more.

The beauty about todays world is that you can get your whole life insurance online quote and even buy your policy on the spot in many cases. Life insurance companies have been selling term life insurance on line for a while now. Whole life insurance is now also available.

As whole life insurance does more than term it is important that you take the time to look at how these policies work.

Death Benefit.

Your whole life insurance online quote will show you the cost for a particular amount that will be paid if you should die. You decide how much you want. One of the things that your whole life insurance online quotes will not show is that this money need not be paid in one lump sum. You can choose to have it paid in the form of a monthly income. If the amount of your policy is large a monthly income may be the best way to have the proceeds paid. Of course there are other factors that need your consideration before such a decision be made.

Cash Values And Dividends.

Whole life insurance policies provide you with cash values which can be enhanced by dividends, if the life insurance company earns a dividend. If in the future, for some reason, you decide you no longer have a need for your whole life policy you can surrender it to the life insurance company for it's cash value. In the early years these cash values are less than you paid in but the older the policy gets the closer the surrender value comes to the amount you have paid in. Eventually your cash value plus your dividend can far exceed the premiums you paid into the policy. Please bear in mind, however, that dividends are not guaranteed.

The Premiums.

When you get your whole life insurance online quote you will notice that the premiums are much higher than those of a term life policy. There are many reasons for that. Separate and apart from the fact that you can get back a considerable portion of you premium upon surrender dividends can be used in other ways. You dividend can be used, as an alternative, to reduce premiums. As the years go by the same insurance will cost considerably less in premiums.

Paid Up Additions.

Your dividend can also be used to purchase what is known as paid up additions. These are small fully paid up whole life policies. Upon your death the actual amount paid to your loved ones will be more than you originally contracted for as a result.

Because the insurance companies are getting more comfortable with the idea of providing whole life insurance online quotes the best of these policies can be purchased instantly. One of the more encouraging conclusions is that the bigger and better life insurance companies are providing whole life insurance quotes online as well as selling actual policies online.

For additional details on whole life insurance online quotes go to: http://www.lifeinsurancehub.net/whole-life-insurance-online.html

For more than 40 years Donald has been known for his extensive knowledge of the life insurance business. He has represented some of the largest and most admired life insurance companies in the United States as well as Canada. His advice is invaluable.

Donald's website is: http://www.lifeinsurancehub.net

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Term vs Whole Life Insurance

Term vs Whole Life Insurance - The Debate Continues

If you are considering your life insurance options, you have undoubtedly encountered the "term insurance" versus "whole life insurance" debate. With so much information and so many opinions, it is easy to get caught up in a whirl of confusion. The key is to research your options, because there is no 'one size fits all' approach.

First, you need to understand the basics of each type of insurance. Once you know that, consider how they will apply to you. What are your financial goals? Do you have other investment tools at work for you? Would a combination of strategies be your best option? Once we address a few of these questions, it will be much easier to determine which route will suit you and your family – term or whole life or even a combination of the two.

Defining Term Life

Term life insurance offers coverage to the policyholder for a specified length of time. Generally, this type of policy is bought with an objective in mind. For example, term life insurance is a popular option for individuals with limited income. It is also sought after by those with high, but short term insurance needs; entrepreneurs who wish to cover a business loan, or for personal family protection. While term life policies offer no cash value accumulation; they do provide for beneficiaries upon your death. The face value is usually collected tax free, assuming that all premiums are paid current.

The Advantages of Term Life

Term life insurance typically boasts low premiums. Given the lower premiums, many industry experts believe that term insurance provides the best insurance coverage per premium dollar. In addition, this type of policy does provide you with the coverage you need to meet all your short-term needs. A good example of such a need would be your mortgage.

Finally, term life insurance policies can also serve as a complement to your whole life insurance policy, should you opt to have both in place. Convertible term policies are available. These policies will enable you to convert your current term coverage to permanent life insurance at a later date, and generally a medical exam is not required.

The Disadvantage of Term Life

To truly determine what type of coverage is right for you, you must also consider the disadvantages or cons of term life insurance. The first thing to keep in mind is that coverage only lasts a pre-determined length of time. In addition, premiums will continue to climb as you age, or your death benefit will decrease. As stated above, there is no cash value accumulation.

You will also need to look to the future, by realizing that riders that are available with whole life insurance policies are not usually obtainable, and you may be unable to purchase additional coverage at a later date. Finally, term life is not typically available to seniors and these policies are not appropriate for paying estate taxes.

Defining Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance offers policyholders permanent and lifelong insurance coverage. Of course, this is assuming that you continue to pay your premium payments! The policy benefit typically remains the same over the course of time, and is payable to the beneficiary(s), upon the insured's death.

Unlike term life insurance, whole life is designed to last over an extended period of time. Those wishing to cover permanent needs favor these types of policies. Permanent needs may include covering final expenses or contributing to a survivor's nest egg. Whole life policies also present you with an opportunity to build cash value. This may become important later in life, if you are faced with unexpected costs. You can take a loan on your policy to cover major purchases or help finance that 'rainy day'.

The Advantage of Whole Life Insurance

There are a number of advantages to consider. First, whole life insurance policies offer guaranteed protection for life, as long as you continue to meet your premiums. Premiums do not increase in direct correlation with age, and typically, your death benefit is tax-free.

In addition, whole life insurance offers low risk cash value accounts, and the cash may accumulate tax-deferred. In certain cases, you may be able to convert your cash value to an annuity or even opt to make tax-free loans of your cash value. Finally, many depend on a whole life insurance policy to provide their loved ones with the funds to pay for medical bills, final expenses and any remaining debt.

The Disadvantages of Whole Life Insurance

One of the major disadvantages associated with whole life insurance is the cost of premiums. Many find the high premiums to be a hindrance, and are unable to purchase the appropriate amount of protection. Following along that same thought, in order for a whole life insurance policy to be beneficial, you will have to maintain the policy for a considerable amount of time. You are unable to vary your monthly premium payments and the payment period time is lengthy.

Another disadvantage is that at the 'end of the day' the cash value of your policy may be less than your face value. This is one major reason that proponents of term life insurance encourage policyholders to buy a term policy and invest the difference. But we will touch more on that later.

There are two final points to consider when shopping your options. First, should you opt to take out a loan, the amount is deducted from the cash value or death benefit of the policy. In addition, you generally are unable to increase the amount of coverage at a later date.

What Type of Policy is Right for Me?

There are a few basic questions to ask yourself. First are your insurance needs permanent or temporary? Also, you must face the practical issue of premiums. Can you afford the high premiums associated with whole life insurance? Are you disciplined enough to, 'buy term and invest the difference'? If you were faithful in putting your pennies in the piggy bank as a child, this may be a smart option. However, if you know that you will spend every extra dollar buying fabulous shoes or that amazing set of golf clubs – you will want to consider the 'forced' savings that whole life insurance provides.

There is always the option of a convertible term policy. Many find that it is an appropriate way to begin. Despite your choice, at the end of the day, you want to ensure that the type of coverage you opt for will help you build a strong and solid financial foundation for you and your family! Our last tip? Do not depend on either term or whole life insurance as your primary source of investment. Talk with a financial advisor regarding other options, such as 401Ks, IRAs, Stock Options, etc. You can never over prepare for the future.

Establishing his insurance career in 1985, Gary Stuart began from the ground up, building and cultivating an agency which specialized in several lines, including long term care, group health, disability, whole life insurance and more! In 2001, Gary translated his 15 years of experience in the industry to the development of his website which provides his customers with an opportunity to explore their insurance options. Gary sees education as the key element in purchasing a policy best suited to the needs of the individual. For more information, you can vist his site at: http://www.acculifeinsurance.com

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Whole Life Insurance Tips

Whole Life Insurance Tips

Before deciding which kind of life insurance policy is best for you, you must know the key aspects of whole life insurance and how it will be beneficial for you. With a whole life insurance policy you can make your loved ones financially secure in the event of your death. Simply speaking, life insurance helps your loved ones by paying them upon your death.

What is whole life insurance?

Whole life insurance is a permanent life insurance, which covers your whole life with timely premium payments as long as you live.

With increase level of premiums and cash values, this life insurance policy will be the best choice for long-term goals. The amount of guaranteed cash values could provide money to help during emergencies or temporary needs.

Features of Whole Life Insurance

1. Premiums generally are level and payable for life: In the starting premiums will be little higher than a term life insurance but as you go elder, the less expensive will be your annual premiums.

2. Dividends: Dividends are not guaranteed with whole life insurance but there is a chance of earning dividends.

3. Guaranteed Cash Values: In case of term life insurance, there are no cash values but with whole life insurance some money will be stored as cash values. If you give up the policy, accumulated guaranteed cash values would be yours. You can even take loan against your whole life insurance policy.

Before signing up with a whole life insurance policy, you should ask following questions to the agent appointed by Whole Life Insurance Company.

1. Which insurance is best for me, Whole Life Insurance or term life insurance?

2. How much coverage do I need?

3. How and how much discount can I get?

4. What are your Standard & Poor’s ratings?

You must consider following aspects while choosing a Whole Life Insurance Company.

1. Expenses and commissions.

2. Guaranteed cash value.

3. Dividends and interest.

4. How do they adjust the death benefit?

You can get any necessary information from online life insurance companies with the help of fast online Internet access. Fast online Internet access and web sites available make you easily compare and get Whole life insurance online quotes.

We offer the best independent life insurance source. Check it out only on the Whole life insurance tips. Find all about insurance on http://www.leandernet.com/Life_insurance/Life_insurance.php

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Whole Life Insurance: An Introduction

Whole Life Insurance: An Introduction

Whole life insurance is one of the most commonly utilized forms of insurance. Often referred to as "permanent" or "straight" life insurance, it is a form of life insurance that can be maintained through one's entire life. Whole life insurance policies are popular due to their ability to provide financial protection for beneficiaries while simultaneously generating a cash value that may be of use to the insured.

In many whole life insurance policies, one can choose to pay a regular premium that remains unchanged throughout the life of the policy. The total cost of the policy is basically averaged over the life of the insured. Usually, whole life policies are designed so that the benefit amount of the policy will be equal to the sum of all premiums paid by the insured through the age of one hundred years. If the insured should reach the age of the policy's full maturity, the face value of the policy would then be paid directly to the insured.

Whole life insurance policies generate what is termed a "cash value." Basically, this sum grows as one pays premiums. The cash value of a whole life policy is allowed to increase over time with the taxes on its value deferred. If one opts to cancel their whole life policy, they will receive a payment of the accumulated cash value of the policy. One may be required to pay some taxes on the lump sum payment in particular circumstances.

The cash value of whole life policies makes them very attractive to many consumers. Unlike term life policies, for instance, whole life insurance not only provides a death benefit but also accumulates useable cash reserves.

Those with whole life policies do not intend to pay insurance premiums until they reach the age of one hundred. After all, even the most optimistic among us realize we are unlikely to reach that milestone. Instead, whole life insurance is used as a means of protection of future income while one is working and is then later often used to provide cash resources during retirement.

The cash value of whole life insurance policies can also be tapped prior to retirement should an emergency need arise. The insured is able to take out the equivalent of a loan against the life insurance policy and is then afforded the opportunity to pay that loan back in order to restore the policy's full value.

Whole life insurance policies really accomplish two different things. First, they do provide the insured with a way to protect loved ones from financial loss should the insured die. Benefits are paid to the beneficiaries based on the stated benefit level of the whole life insurance policy.

Simultaneously, one is able to create a source of cash reserves by paying regular premiums-with all taxes deferred until dispersal. The policy can eventually become a means of supplementing retirement income or as a mechanism to handle an emergency financial problem during the life of the policy. The protection and flexibility provided by whole life insurance policies makes them very attractive to many consumers and a key element of their long-range financial planning.

Evan C. Davis works in Medicare customer service and is the webmaster and owner of Easy Insurance Finder. Find out about whole life insurance and whole life insurance quotes online at http://www.easy-insurance-finder.com.

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In Praise Of Whole Life Insurance

In Praise Of Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance even though it is not the least expensive life insurance policy you can buy can still fulfill the needs of some. Why some people have such an aversion to this policy I will never understand. Term insurance is also good insurance and can fit into more situations than whole life because of the low cost. More people can afford it. Both types of life insurance serve the same purposes, however, when you buy whole life insurance you get some additional benefits that term life insurance does not provide. Let us take a look at the whole life insurance policy and it's benefits.

Level Premium

Whole life insurance has a fixed level premium which never increases for as long as you own the policy. When you pay a whole life premium a portion goes to pay for the death benefit and a portion is applied to cash values. In the initial years a portion of the premium is also applied to administrative costs.

Death Benefit

Like any other life insurance policy the whole life insurance policy has a guaranteed death benefit which can be paid either in one lump sum or in the form of a monthly income. This death benefit is usually paid free of federal income taxes. There are several income options including a life income, an income for a fixed predetermined period and an income for a fixed amount. The insurance can also keep the principal and just pay the interest. The principal is paid upon demand.

Cash Values

The whole life insurance policy contains a guaranteed cash value which accumulates tax deferred. If you are ever in need of cash you may borrow from your cash value. You don't need to tell the insurance company why you want the money and you pay back the money at your convenience.

Dividends

Cash values earn dividends which depend on the performance of the company. these dividends are not guaranteed. They can be taken in cash, can be left to accumulate interest, can be use to reduce premiums or they can be used to purchase paid up additions. Paid up additions on a whole life insurance policy is a fully paid up whole life policy. These paid up additions have cash values and also earn dividends.

There are many riders you can add to your whole life insurance policy. The two main riders are the waiver of premium benefit and the accidental death benefit rider also known as the double indemnity rider.

Waiver Of Premium.

If the insured should become disabled, any time after six months of disability the life insurance company will step in and pay the premiums even if the disability lasts for the lifetime of the insured.

Accidental Death Benefit

If the insured person should die in an accident, for example an automobile accident, the life insurance company will pay twice the death benefit. If you have a policy for $100,000, and you have the accidental death benefit rider, the insurance company will pay $200,000 to your beneficiary.

The above benefits may be worth the extra premium you would pay for a whole life insurance policy.

For more than 40 years Donald has been known for his extensive knowledge of the life insurance business. He has represented some of the largest and best life insurance companies in the United States as well as Canada. His advice is invaluable.

Donald's website is: http://www.lifeinsurancehub.net

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Whole Life Insurance Explanation

Whole Life Insurance Explanation

A whole life insurance explanation should be required reading for anyone about to purchase life insurance. Whole life, in my humble opinion, has in recent years got a bad rap. People tend to buy term life insurance because it is cheaper. Although I believe that a good term insurance can take care of the insurance needs of most people, a good whole life insurance policy is worth looking at.

Guaranteed Death Benefit

The death benefit of a whole life insurance policy is guaranteed to stay level for the duration of the policy. If you think about it, that means a lifetime. That type of guarantee cannot be sneezed at. The premiums of your whole life insurance policy is also guaranteed never to increase. This is also a very important feature. The policy can never be cancelled by the insurance company.

Cash Value Accumulation

A whole life insurance policy has cash values, that cash is available to you, if you should need it, at any time. You can surrender your policy and get the cash that the policy has accumulated, or you can take the cash in the form of a loan and still keep your policy. The cash values of your policy accumulate tax-deferred, which means that while the cash is accumulating interest you pay no taxes on the interest. Whenever you take out the cash you pay the taxes then. You also borrow on a tax free basis.

Dividends

As most whole life insurance policies are participating policies you earn dividends on your policy. Each year the life insurance company declares a dividend, a portion of which goes to policy owners who own a whole life policy. You can take your dividend in cash, the company will send you a check each year, you can leave the dividend to accumulate interest, or you can elect to purchase paid up additions with your dividends. Paid up additions are single premium policies of the same type, that is whole life insurance.

Waiver Of Premium Disability Rider

You can add a waiver of premium rider to your policy, which states, in a nutshell, that if you should become disabled, anytime after six months of disability, the life insurance company will pay the premiums for you. It does not matter how long you are disabled, they will pay the premiums even if it is for the rest of your life.

Accidental Death Benefit

To your whole life policy, you can add an accidental death benefit rider which states that if you should die in an accident the insurance company will pay your benefit twice the amount of life insurance you applied for.

There are a myriad of other benefits to the whole life insurance policy click the link below to get the details.

For more than 40 years Donald has been known for his extensive knowledge of the life insurance business. He has represented some of the largest and best life insurance companies in the United States as well as Canada. His advice is invaluable.

Donald's website is: http://www.lifeinsurancehub.net

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How To Get Cheap Whole Life Insurance Quotes

How To Get Cheap Whole Life Insurance Quotes

Whole life insurance quotes the most expensive kind of policies that are on the market due the fact of cash value over time. Whole life insurance is permanent life insurance coverage that lasts as long as you live and continue to make on time premium payments. The reason that whole life insurance quotes are so much more expensive is due to the fact that the policy will have to pay out a death benefit when you die.

Whole life insurance quotes are available online from many insurance companies that have an online presence. Online life insurance quotes let you search for the policy that best suits your needs. When you log onto each site, you can read the information regarding the whole life insurance policies available and request free quotes. You should request at least three or more quotes so you can compare the different rates.

When you compare the whole life insurance quotes you have got, the cheapest is not always the best one to choose. They can be quite affordable because the payment of premiums stretches out over a longer period of time. When you are comparing the online life insurance quotes you receive, you shouldn't just think about the amount of the monthly premium but the length of time that you have to pay the premiums.

The death benefit you choose in your whole life policy will never decrease and the premiums will always stay the same. With quotes for term insurance, the benefit and the premiums remain the same for the term, but could change dramatically when you renew the policy at an older age.

In order to determine how much of a death benefit you need with whole life insurance, you should sit back and evaluate how much money your family would need to survive without you. You have to look at the fact that the bills still need to be paid and your income will no longer be available. The sum of the death benefit is one of the factors that does determine the price of the whole life insurance quotes you receive. Other factors include your age, occupation and health.

The younger you are when you choose to get whole life insurance, the lower cost it will be to you. In your later years, you won't have to budget for the premiums, because they will be paid up. You can also borrow against the amount of money you build up in the whole life insurance policy, but this is part of the policy and doesn't have any effect on the quotes you receive.

When comparing whole life insurance quotes there are quite a few things to think about.

For a website totally devoted to Life Insurance visit Peter's Website Life Insurance Answers and find out about Life Insurance Answers as well as Term Life Insurance and more, including Online Life Insurance and Life Insurance Agents.

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Whole Life Vs Universal Life Insurance

Whole Life Vs Universal Life Insurance

You may find it a good idea to look at "whole life vs universal life" insurance. You probably wonder which is best for you and your family. Because more people are familiar with it let us take a look at the mechanics of whole life insurance policy first and find out once and for all which is best "whole life or universal life" insurance.

  • Whole Life InsuranceI have a certain fondness for the whole life insurance policy because of the myriad of benefits it provides. There is the guaranteed level death benefit that you cannot outlive. You also have a guaranteed premium when you purchase whole life insurance. Your premium never goes up. The whole life policy has a cash value as well as a dividend if the company performs well. The cash value is guaranteed and also earns a minimum amount of interest. Dividends are not guaranteed. In our comparison of whole life vs universal life we must consider that the whole life policy dividend can be used to purchase paid up additions...which are really small paid up policies purchased each year which are added to the base policy. These paid up additions increase your death benefit and also have cash values. The dividend can be paid in cash or they can be used to reduce premiums. With all these benefits when we look at whole life vs universal life we must also consider that there is a certain rigidity built into the whole life policy. That is the policy in a nutshell. It is a good policy but quite inflexible.
  • Universal LifeUniversal life provides a little more flexibility than the whole life policy. Life insurance buyers today tend to favor term life insurance. Universal life is built on a term base. It is basically a term policy with an added savings element. You maintain a level death benefit but you also have the option of reducing the death benefit whenever you like. You can also increase the death benefit but you may be required to provide evidence of insurability at the time you choose to make the change. The premium you pay usually remains level but you do have the option of reducing it. Here is where it is flexible. Let us suppose you bought a universal life policy and you applied 30% of your yearly premium to pay for death benefit and 70% of it to saving. You may decide 5 or 10 years down the line that you don't need as much life insurance as you now own. You can reduce your death benefit and apply the applicable cost to your savings plan. Let us suppose, on the other hand, you decide that that you need additional life insurance 5 or 10 years down the line. You can reduce the amount of premium applied to savings and use it to purchase the additional term insurance you need. That means there would be no need for any additional outlay in premiums. You must, however, bear in mind that you have to qualify for the additional insurance. The life insurance company may ask for a medical examination. Whole life vs universal life...those are the basic differences. You may add the waiver of premium rider to either policy. The cost for the rider for the universal life policy is much lower than of the whole life as the premium for the rider only applies to the portion of the premium applied to death benefit. With the whole life policy the entire premium is waived in the event of disability. You may also add the accidental death benefit rider to either policy.

For additional information on whole life vs universal life go to =>http://www.lifeinsurancehub.net/permanent-life-insurance.html

For more than 40 years Donald has been known for his extensive knowledge of the life insurance business. He has represented some of the largest and most admired life insurance companies in the United States as well as Canada. His advice is invaluable.

Donald's website is: http://www.lifeinsurancehub.net

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Universal Life Insurance

Universal Life Insurance

Life is so uncertain and so many things can happen -- even the things you least expect, such as a sudden death. You could be very strong one minute and suffer from and a heart attack and die the next minute. However, one thing is for sure, the loved ones you leave behind will be devastated and be even more in distraught if they do not have the means to pay for your funeral services. That is why it is important that you secure the future of your family by getting a universal life insurance.

Universal life insurance is one type of life insurance. It is characterized by flexible premiums and adjustable benefits. As your insurance needs change, your policy can also be adjusted; however, this action requires approval. The benefits of securing a universal life insurance policy include flexibility, security, tax-deferred account value growth and tax-free death benefit.

A universal life insurance plan is flexible because you can adjust your premium payments and death benefits according to your needs. Even with your changing insurance needs, you are secure that your loved ones will not go through a financial crisis in the event of your death. Aside from these two benefits, you can also get tax-free and tax-deferred benefits. Yet, the proceeds that your beneficiaries will get are income tax-free, and the account value of your policy earns interest and is federal income tax deferred.

Getting a universal life insurance policy gives you lots of benefits. But, if you are still in doubt of these significant advantages, you should consult an insurance agent to better explain them to you. You might as well ask other important information regarding premiums, savings, reserves and payments to ensure that you get the right life insurance policy for you.

Universal Life Insurance provides detailed information on Universal Life Insurance, Universal Life Insurance Quotes, Variable Universal Life Insurance, Universal Life Insurance Policy Definitions and more. Universal Life Insurance is affiliated with Free Life Insurance Leads.

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Universal Life Insurance Policy

Universal Life Insurance Policy - A Different Choice

Choosing a life insurance policy isn’t an easy task. There are several policies
to choose from, each with elements that we want and need. The two most popular
kinds of life insurance policies are term life insurance policies and whole life
insurance policies.

If a term life insurance policy and a whole life insurance policy got married
and had a child, the child would be a universal life insurance policy. Universal
life insurance policies are a mix of term life insurance policies and whole life
insurance policies. Just like all children do, universal life insurance policies
have a few positive features and a few negative features of each parent, i.e.,
the term life insurance policy and the whole life insurance policy.

Like a whole life insurance policy, a universal life insurance policy offers an
investment component; however, universal life insurance policies are generally
less expensive than whole life insurance policies. This is a good thing for
those of us who want the cash value accruement of a whole life policy but can
not afford to purchase one. It should be noted, however, that earning a cash
value isn’t guaranteed. Coverage can even end if your account gets low enough.

Like a term life insurance policy, a universal life insurance policy is usually
not as expensive as a whole life insurance policy. However, even though an
accumulation of cash value isn’t guaranteed with a universal life insurance
policy, it is possible; it is not possible with a term life insurance policy.

If certain aspects of both a term life insurance policy and a whole life
insurance policy appeal to you, consider purchasing a universal life insurance
policy. Don’t purchase any life insurance policy, including a universal life
insurance policy, without first speaking with an agent of the life insurance
company. Your universal life insurance agent will be able to construct the life
insurance policy that meets both your wants and needs.

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Universal Life Insurance Guide 101

Universal Life Insurance Guide 101

Universal life insurance is insurance with convenience of i.e. flexible premium, manageable benefit life insurance policy that accumulates account value. Universal life insurance is an improvement over the ordinary form of life insurance in terms of flexibility. The universal life insurance provides you a cash-in-value but you can make timely withdrawal from your gathered fund.

Universal life insurance is popular amongst people for it allows the policyholder to decide the on premium and benefit whereas the other kinds of policies do not let the policyholder to get the benefits from the life insurance fund till the time of death. Buying a universal life insurance can also protect your loved ones against financial problems that may occur after the insurer dies.

The universal life insurance functions like a high interest bank account because the insurance company puts your premium into an account after deducting nominal charges. The amount so accumulated gets an interest that is also added in the account. The interests are adjusted monthly and not annually. With every premium payment made the accumulation of money in the fund augments. Also the compound interest is earned on the account every month. In universal life insurance withdrawals can be made from cash surrender value. Each withdrawal must be at least $500. You are permitted to withdraw four times in a year. The amount that you withdraw is deducted from the Account Value and the death benefit. While you withdraw or surrender from your account value, you might have to pay surrender charges. The cash surrender value is the Account Value minus any surrender charges and any outstanding loans.

In order to have maximum benefit of the policy the policyholder should avoid repeated withdrawals from his accumulated fund. Withdrawal of money time and again will result in fewer benefits at the time of actual need. Moreover there will occur futility in the years of premium payment if the accumulated fund is just a part of the intended original benefit amount to be considered.

However there is a dark side too to universal life insurance. The problem stems due to the interest rate assumption used by carrier proving to be wrong and consequently in the bad performance of the policy. The policy premiums increase if the returns are not earned that often results in inability to payoff and so the cancellation of the policy. For instance numerous universal life insurance policies were surrendered or cancelled from 1970 to 1980.

But over the years the insurance companies have lowered the rates rendering initial assumptions invalid. It then became the choice of the policyholder to make up for the difference through higher premiums. So despite of purchasing a permanent insurance scheme the policyholders are burdened with rising premiums.

So if you want to save the trouble of increasing premiums, buying a whole life insurance policy is the best idea. Universal life insurance is good if you look want to pay less in present moment but keep it in mind that you might have pay more later if the interest rates do not fluctuate as you expected.

Mansi Aggarwal recommends that you visit Universal Life Insurance for more information.

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Interest Rates and Universal Life Insurance

Interest Rates and Universal Life Insurance

Universal life insurance policies provide a flexible insurance solution for those seeking the protection of death benefits. The insured can flex the policy's premiums and benefits during the life of the policy while the policy creates a residual cash value. This allows one to adjust the nature of their life insurance so that it remains consistent with their actual needs.

Whole life insurance policies offer insured parties a guaranteed interest rate on the cash value of the policy. Universal life policies do this as well. For instance, a universal life policy may guarantee a minimum interest rate on the account of X percent. That percentage will be paid regardless of what happens to the insurance companies actual earnings. However, if the insurance company is able to invest premiums in a way that allows them to exceed the X percent rate of growth, they credit the policy of the insured at the higher rate.

This seems like an absolutely winning situation for holders of universal life policies. After all, they are guaranteed a minimum rate of return on the policy's cash value and may actually earn in excess of that rate, allowing them to pay less in premiums for the same level of life insurance coverage.

This feature of universal life insurance policies has contributed significantly to their popularity. However, despite the minimum guaranteed rate of return, interest rate levels can still impact universal life insurance policies detrimentally, making it necessary for consumers to consider all possibilities when evaluating universal products.

Although the insured is guaranteed a minimum rate of increase to the policy's cash value, this perk is somewhat meaningless if an insurance company's assumptions regarding interest rate behavior are proven to be wrong. All universal life policies are written with assumptions regarding the nature of interest rates in mind. If the company is unable to invest at a level producing the anticipated return, premium costs are forced upward to compensate for the shortfall.

This can result in policyholders being forced into premiums they may not be able to afford. This phenomenon is occurring today for those who bought universal life insurance when interest rates were in double digits. Insurance companies based their universal life insurance policies on the assumption that higher interest rates would continue for some time. This has not been the case, and many insured parties have found themselves paying higher and higher premiums in order to maintain their life insurance. For some, these premium increases are unmanageable, forcing them to cancel their policies completely.

Obviously, the risk of interest rate fluctuations makes universal life insurance less predictable than whole life insurance coverage. However, this unpredictability is not necessarily a reason to avoid universal life. If one is cognizant of the risk of premium price upswing if earnings fail to meet predictions and is prepared to pay the increased premiums in such situations, universal life remains very effective.

This is especially true in light of the fact that the alternative would be to simply buy a whole life insurance policy, which would likely require higher premiums payments right away and with no opportunity for relief at any point during the life of the policy.

Universal life advocates argue that the possibility for cheaper premiums when investment out performs or meets projections makes it a more sensible alternative than agreeing to higher premium payments through the entirety of a policy (whole life).

Whole life advocates maintain that the unpredictability of the markets and of interest rates makes universal life insurance products too unpredictable.

In the final analysis, universal life insurance products seem like a winning solution for those who understand and are able to handle fluctuations in the required premium. If one necessitates complete predictability and is able to overlook the possibility of a cheaper premium over the course of the policy, they may decide that a whole life package makes more sense for them than universal life insurance.

Evan C. Davis works in Medicare customer service and is the webmaster and owner of Easy Insurance Finder. Find out about universal life insurance and online universal life quotes at http://www.easy-insurance-finder.com.

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Benefits of Getting Universal Life Insurance Quotes

Benefits of Getting Universal Life Insurance Quotes

What is Universal Life Insurance?

“Universal” is the term used for life insurance that offers built in flexibility to change your premiums and the amount of life insurance you carry throughout the life of the policy. A universal life insurance policy will accumulate value as the premiums are placed in an interest building account. If your situation changes, and you decide you need more (or less) coverage, you can control how the universal life insurance policy operates. Many consumers have found that they appreciate the added control and hassle-free flexibility they receive from owning universal life insurance. As with any life insurance policy, the benefits provide financial security for your loved ones in the untimely event of your death.

What Can I Gain from Universal Life Insurance Quotes?

Once you’ve made the decision to purchase universal life insurance, the first step to securing a policy is to find out how much coverage you can afford. The best way to do this is by getting universal life insurance quotes. When deciding how much you can spend, remember that with universal life insurance, you are always able to add more coverage later if you want. Universal life insurance quotes will provide all the information you need regarding insurance rates, conditions, exclusions and benefits for the policy you are considering. It’s generally a wise idea to procure universal life insurance quotes from several providers to compare the different coverage options they have to offer. Once you have the quotes in hand, creating a table for comparison will allow you to decide on the most effective policy for your needs.

What if I’m not Sure About Universal Life Insurance?

If you haven’t yet decided that universal life is the way to go, consider getting universal life insurance quotes along with quotes for other types of life insurance. Just as with provider comparisons, use the quotes to compare coverage and benefits across the different policy types. Whatever your final decision, the universal life insurance quotes will ensure that you are making a well informed decision. If you’re still not sure you understand all the details of a policy, contact an insurance claim attorney or insurance agent for clarification.

How Can I Obtain Universal Life Insurance Quotes?

Getting universal life insurance quotes is a very simple process. Many insurance providers allow you to request and access quotes via the internet. Researching the internet will also allow you to gather information about the general policies and coverage that can help you decide companies you should ask for universal life insurance quotes. Aside from the internet, your insurance agent should be able to provide you with a variety of universal life insurance quotes to assist you in your comparisons. Most insurance agencies and online insurance providers will be more than happy to provide you with universal life insurance quotes for free. While life insurance can’t bring you back to your loved ones, it can certainly offer them a measure of security.

Learn more about the benefits of universal life insurance quotes here - http://www.universal-life-insurance-quotes.com

Paolo Basauri is an expert author writing for Universal life insurance quotes

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What's The Lowdown On Variable Universal Life Insurance?

What's The Lowdown On Variable Universal Life Insurance?

If permanent insurance with flexible premiums and options is important to you, you’ll want to choose a variable universal life insurance policy. This type of policy combines features of universal life insurance with investment options, so you have the potential for a larger death settlement than you would have with an ordinary policy. It is called a variable universal life insurance, because your investments and premiums are not fixed. They are variable because they depend on the current market conditions.

Variable universal life insurance has advantages over other life insurance policies, such as Globe Life Insurance or whole life insurance. With this type of life insurance you get to play the stock market and choose the investment funds where you want to put your money. With universal life insurance on its own, you can’t control how your cash value is invested. When you combine it with variable life insurance, you can switch investments two or three times a year if you wish to get a higher life insurance settlement.

As with 30 year term life insurance and others, you do have a guaranteed death benefit. This amount could rise drastically if you have the right investments with a variable universal life insurance. The amount of the cash settlement varies, so that you could have lots of money one day and the minimum life insurance settlement the next.

The life insurance cost associated with variable universal life insurance is higher than other types. However, along with this comes the advantage that you have a tax shelter. The money you make through investments will not be taxed until you cash in the policy. The monthly premium you pay also varies, depending on market conditions. This may not appeal to you if you are on a fixed income and have to budget for the premiums.

Variable Universal life insurance is not for everyone. If you want to make sure that there is a death benefit to protect your family in the event of your death, then maybe you should look at a 30 year life insurance or ask for a whole life insurance quote. This way your money is guaranteed and you don’t run the risk of losing it. The way market conditions are operating today, the many falls seem to indicate that the cash value of the life insurance policies are falling as well. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Variable universal life insurance gives you choices.

For a website totally devoted to Life Insurance visit Peter's Website Life Insurance Answers and find out about Online Life Insurance as well as Life Insurance Rates and more, including Life Insurance Companies, Term Life Insurance and Life Insurance Agents.

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Travel Insurance - Insure Your Trip

Travel Insurance - Insure Your Trip

You may think that travel insurance isn’t necessary, and that you have planned your vacation perfectly. Things like when to board the flight, where to stay, and when to come back would have been included in your plan; but what if you have to change your plan and get back early? Or what if you met with an accident or fell ill, which of course you were not prepared for? You would end up paying all the medical expenses that are not covered by your health insurance. This is when having travel insurance could save you. It is important that you purchase travel insurance to protect your travel investment.

Types of Travel Insurance:

Most travel insurance companies offer the same packages which include basic travel insurance, and comprehensive travel insurance. There are a few general types of travel insurance, however, depending on the insurance company, the coverage and limitations will be different. Given below are some of the common types:

Trip Cancellation: This is the most common and the most important type of travel insurance. Incase your trip gets cancelled because of any unforeseen circumstances, you don’t have to worry about your tickets not being refunded or bear the burden of the money spent, as this type of insurance will cover all these non-refundable payments or deposits.

Trip Delay: This type of insurance is also very helpful incase of any break in your travel plan, for example, say you have to take a connecting flight only to find that it has been cancelled or delayed for a few hours, what do you do? You take the next flight to get home. You don’t have to worry about the extra money spent by you on the ticket. In this case, if you have trip delay insurance, your money will be reimbursed.

Trip Interruption: If your trip gets interrupted due to any unexpected calamity, you don’t have to bear for the lost vacation. Your money will be reimbursed if you have trip interruption insurance.

Baggage/Personal Effects Loss or Delay: This is also a very common type of insurance. It will cover losses if your baggage is lost or delayed, or if any of your stuff gets damaged.

Travel Document Loss: Having this type of insurance will save you from situations such as a stolen or lost passport. Staying in a foreign country without your password would create problems, but you need not run places looking for emergency cash to get it replaced, as this insurance will take care of that.

Accident/Sickness Medical Expenses: If you fall ill anywhere during your travel, you don’t have to worry about the extra expense. This insurance will cover the cost for you.

Medical Evacuation/Emergency Transportation: In the case of a medical emergency during your travel, this insurance will cover expenses such as the transportation charge to the hospital.

Supplier Default: This insurance will cover any payments or deposits lost because of the bankruptcy of a travel supplier.

So next time you plan a trip, do get travel insurance to ensure a safe trip and peace of mind.

Article by Stefan Rockhaus. For more info visit Travel Insurance and Travel Health Insurance - Find related articles at Information Spring - You may reprint this article as long as no changes are made, and this resource box is left intact.

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The Basics of Travel Insurance

The Basics of Travel Insurance

Life is full of unexpected events- this is the basic principle which drives the insurance industry. One doesn’t really know what will happen next year, next month even tomorrow. Life is especially more riskier for people who frequently travel, and a travel insurance can really be a good thing to have. It will at least leave something for oneself, one’s family and loved ones in the case of unfortunate events during traveling.

One might be skeptical in getting travel insurance simply because he thinks that it is a waste of money which can be used for something more urgent or important. However, we can never really say what will happen and it’s good to be insured. In the events such as accidents, trip cancellations and lost luggage, travel insurance policies can really be handy. Getting travel insurance is the first step that should be taken when planning a trip.

Types of Travel Insurance Policies

Travel insurance is availed by people who are concerned about the events that may unfold during a trip. It’s not a sign of paranoia, it’s a mere sign that one faces the reality that he doesn’t control his life and the events that may happen.

-Package

Travel insurance packages are usually designed to cover single trips. This type of insurance policy is very ideal for tours, cruises, air trips, renting vacation homes, whether they are for business or personal traveling in foreign or domestic areas.

These travel insurance packages are usually pre-bundled by the insurance companies and they provide travel coverage such as: cancellation of trips, interruption of flights, delays of travel, lost of baggage and personal effects, delay of baggage, emergency evacuation, assistance for travelers and medical expenses. One can also avail optional policies which will cover accidental deaths.

These packages are usually rated against three factors: one’s age during application, the cost of one’s trip and the duration of the trip.

-Medical

Travel insurance plans can also be designed to cover one’s medical expenses if needed during the trip. There are also group health insurance plans which can be availed by a group. However, most of the insurance plans available today will only cover medical expenses in trips which are done inside the “coverage areas.” It’s best to be able to ask the insurance provider regarding these things before availing a medical travel insurance policy.

-Accidental death during flight

Many insurance providers give accidental flight death insurance as a part of their insurance policies. Sometimes, they give it as an option.

Listed below are some tips on how one can go about availing quality and suitable travel insurance policies for his trips.

1. Before getting a new travel insurance policy, one should double check his existing insurance policies. There might be some coverage with regards to traveling in the existing policies that one possess and it would be a waste of money to pay for something that has already been covered.

2. Know what’s the best type of insurance is best for the trip. Getting a travel insurance is really dependent on the situation of the destination and the other factors that come into play such as one’s age and health conditions.

3. Know the policy. One should know whether things like international coverage, emergency evacuation, accidental death, remains repatriation and family travel insurance are covered by the policy..

These are some tips on how to avail travel insurance. The point is- life is unpredictable and it’s better to have insurance especially for travel purposes. Travel insurance is a real must when traveling.

Travel Insurance Information web site is maintained by Michael Contaro. It' purpose is to answer all your travel related questions. You can view the site at http://travelinsurance.travelplanshq.com or click here Travel Insurance

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A Guide to Buying and Using Travel Insurance

A Guide to Buying and Using Travel Insurance

Is Travel Insurance Really Necessary?

Travel is already expensive enough, isn't it? The cost of air fare, cruises, hotels, ground transportation, food and activities and entertainment are already high enough. I don't know about you, but I work hard for my money, and when I travel, I want to keep as much of my money in MY pocket as possible. Is travel insurance a necessity or a luxury? Why not cut a few corners here and there. Why buy something if it's not really needed?

My personal answer is, of course, that I am not independently wealthy and can't withstand the potential financial losses I would incur if I require medical care while I'm traveling. Not being independently wealthy also means that I'm in the market for adequate but cheap travel insurance. I suspect that you are in the same position, so you, too need cheap travel insurance. If you're still not sure about that, consider the following.

Did you know that if you get sick or are injured while traveling abroad, your medical plan may not cover all the expenses you will incur? If the costs of treatment are higher than the maximums of your medical plan, you will be responsible for the difference, unless you have already purchased travel insurance. In fact, you may not even be admitted into hospitals in some countries without proof that you have health or medical insurance.

This is true for everyone, regardless of age or length of time abroad. Suppose you fall ill just a few hours after arriving at your destination. Or suppose you make a day-trip to another country, and you are injured in a traffic accident. Or suppose one of your children is part of a group making a class visit abroad, gets food poisoning and requires hospitalization. In all cases, without adequate travel health insurance, you will be responsible for the costs above and beyond the limitations of your existing medical plan.

Therefore, before going abroad, you need to make sure that you are adequately covered by travel medical insurance that won't break your budget. You should check to see if appropriate coverage is already available to you through your medical plan, employee benefits, or even through a credit card. If the coverage is sufficient for your needs, then you can enjoy your trip without incurring the extra expense of travel insurance. However, if you are not sure of your coverage, or if your coverage is inadequate or non-existent, then your next step should be to research and purchase the travel insurance coverage you need.

How Much Can You Expect To Pay?

When I bought my first plane ticket to China a few years ago it cost around $2000 round-trip, and my travel insurance cost me over $500 because I didn't shop around for cheap travel insurance online.

A few years later, a little bit older and wiser, and my travel insurance for another trip to China cost me much less--about $300 for roughly the same coverage. The difference? Before buying my travel insurance for the second trip, I shopped around online and got the coverage I needed, at the right price. If I'd have purchased my travel insurance for this latest trip from my travel agent, it would've cost me about $600 for the trip, and my plane tickets only cost $1,500! Not exactly the smart way to go.

So how much will it cost you? Not as much money as it will cost you if you get sick or injured abroad and you don't have any travel insurance coverage! That's the obvious answer to the question.

In fact, how much travel insurance costs will depend on your age and the type of coverage you choose. Basic policies cost as little as $5.50 USD per $1000 of coverage. On the other hand, you can expect a full coverage policy to cost you from 7 to 10% of the cost of your trip, depending on your age. The older you are, the more you will pay. No matter what the cost of the policy, however, it's sure to be much less than the cost of medical evacuation!

The good news is that you can easily, conveniently and quickly research and locate excellent but cheap online travel insurance and reduce the costs while making an informed purchase. This is much better than taking what you are offered at the travel agency because you can choose from hundreds of travel insurance companies and polices and save yourself a lot of money in the process. One place you can start your search is at Travel Insurance Central, http://www.travel-insurance-central.com

What You Should Consider When Buying Travel Insurance

To assist you in your research, here are some suggestions to help you make an informed purchase.

1. Consider the worst-case scenario. If you can financially withstand the worst-case scenario then maybe you don't need travel insurance or maybe you don't need a comprehensive policy.

2. Make sure the policy you are considering provides adequate medical/dental coverage, including medical evacuation coverage just in case you need medical care in a place where the best treatment available is below the standards you are accustomed to in your country. This can happen if you fall ill in a developing country or even on a cruise ship.

3. Check your existing insurance policies for possible coverage. There is no sense in paying more for what you already have in your homeowner or tenant policy, such as theft and loss coverage.

4. If you are a frequent traveler, you should consider annual or year-round travel insurance policies. Sometimes they are called multi-trip travel insurance policies. Whatever the name, these policies can be relatively cheap when compared to single-trip travel insurance policies.

5. Know what you are buying, so read the fine print. Make sure that you understand what the company considers to be a legitimate reason for cancellation or interruption. If the list is too restrictive, maybe you should consider another policy.

6. Don't restrict yourself to buying only from your travel agent. He/She will probably only have one company's product(s) available, and it's there for your convenience, but that convenience can be quite costly!

7. Ask lots of questions about the coverage. Play the "what if" game. Ask for clear explanations of terminology. Make sure that you and the travel insurance company are speaking the same language.

8. Don't buy the insurance through your transportation provider. If the airline goes bankrupt, how adequate will your insurance coverage be?

Once You’ve Bought Your Travel Insurance

Remember that your travel insurance policy covers you between certain specific dates, so don't start your trip early or extend your trip without first changing the dates of coverage on your travel insurance policy. Of course, this might cost you extra, but that's cheaper than finding yourself without coverage when you need it the most.

Also, it almost goes without saying that you should bring your travel insurance policy with you when you go abroad. You can't consult the policy if it's sitting on your desk at home. You should also carry your travel insurance company's toll-free assistance phone number and other contact information with you wherever you go. It does you no good if you get ill or hurt and the necessary policy information is sitting in your hotel room. It's also a good idea to bring your regular medical coverage cards and info with you.

I hope these tips will help you by the best travel insurance for you. Then take your trip with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you are insured by the right travel insurance policy at the right price. Bon voyage!


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Understanding Travel Insurance

Understanding Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is important to understand, since like health insurance coverage, the customer may be refused coverage. Many insurance companies will offer a surplus of coverage for individuals and families. The company will consider few aspects of the policyholder, by reviewing the risk factors involved. If the policyholder is a high-risk the company may cover the holder, but the premiums will be higher than standard in most instances. Travel Insurance on the other hand, can refuse customers if they pose a high-risk.

Still, few travel insurance companies may consider customers that pose a high-risk, yet the company will pose a steep premium with minimal coverage. If the customer fails to inform the agent that he/she is a high-risk while filing for coverage, then the claims may be invalidated when submitted to the company if you are insured. Thus, travel insurance primary focuses on risk factors to conclude eligibility.

If the policyholder is traveling with others, then the travel insurance should cover those travelers, and the policyholder is obligated to inform the agency of any potential risks. In addition, if the policyholder is pending medical treatment for current conditions, then the policyholder must inform the agency. The policyholder must also inform the agency of any restrictions from medical professions, if the professional has advised the customer not to travel. The policyholder must also inform the company if he/she is traveling to receive medical exams, or if the customer has a chronic ill over the past year, seeking medical treatment, then he/she is obligated to inform the agency.

Incurable ills and treatments are also expected to be noted on the polices. Thus, it is possible to receive Travel Insurance with the conditions listed; however, again the premiums will be high. Furthermore, the companies do have the right to deny you coverage if you are pending any of the stated conditions.

There are a few types of Travel Insurance Polices available and each policy varies. Travel Insurance companies often present “comprehensive coverage” and sometimes the premiums are steep. Few companies offer comprehensive policies with lower premiums, therefore, researching the marketplace is essential to spare cost. If you are searching for comprehensive coverage, you may want to go online and get Quotes from the online Brokers, since these people only specialize in Travel Insurance. The Brokers will often provide a surplus of information to consumers to help them determine which policy is best for them. Once the consumer has made a decision, the Brokers will link the consumer with a company that offers comprehensive coverage, coupled with affordable rates and lower premiums.

There are many reasons to take out Travel Insurance. If you frequently travel then you are aware of the hazards lurking in the crevices. Thus, traveling frequently will call for “Annual Travel Insurance,” since your risks are in constant need of protection. The Standard Coverage is for those that travel lightly, while the Family Plans are for those that take periodical vacations and do not wish to cover the family under Single Policies. The Group policies are for those that travel with others, and the policies will often cover up to ten travelers. As you can see there are different types of packages offered by Travel Insurance companies, therefore, frequent travelers should compare research and find the best plan that suits their traveling needs.

Travel Insurance Policies will often cover the expenses incurred from “cancelled trips.” The “Cancellation Policy” covers the policyholder’s losses. The policies will not cover in most instances, pet damages; therefore, if you are traveling with your pet, you may want to consider an extension policy known as the Third Party Insurance Plan.

To learn more about Travel Insurance and Third Party Policies, again going online and getting a Quote may be your best option. The policies vary and there are several packages offered. Since, you are the only one that knows what you need; it is up to you to find Travel Coverage to suit your needs. Be advised that few companies on the Internet are swindlers; therefore, investigate the company before signing contracts.

Authored by Michael Bens. For more great information about all forms of insurance visit our free online insurance publication the Gabae Insurance Source to find the information you're looking for!

Also you can check out Gabae Insurance Articles to find the articles you're looking for!

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Travel Insurance for Elders and Foreign

Travel Insurance for Elders and Foreign

If you are over the age, sixty-five you may not find travelers insurance easily. However, if you do find coverage the premiums will involve more costs since risks are involved. Still, there are companies that will insure the elderly and will provide senior citizen discounts. Some policies will even insure individuals over the age seventy-five. However, the companies will consider cost of medical treatment, age, and other factors when considering the customer.

If you are traveling to the foreign regions then different policies are needed, since risks are also involved and are often higher than common travel.

Voyagers that take travel the European Economic Area are advised to apply for the E111 Forms. The forms “entitle most UK residents to free, or reduced-cost emergency medical treatment.” Note that the policies differ from the standard Travel Insurance. The Form provides coverage only to travelers exploring the UK and European country. The E111 is an “EC Document” that enables the policyholder to seek treatment if he becomes ill. Since some areas, overseas offer free medical coverage the E111 is merely a backup plan.

If you travel and join activities that include Backpacking, you may want to consider Backpacker Travel Insurance, which covers students that travel abroad. The group insurance plans, such as the annual, single or multi-trip plans will only cover travelers up to “90-days.” Backpacker’s Travel Insurance is dissimilar, in that it covers explorers over an extended time, especially if they travel to various continents. Not all countries are covered by the Backpacker Coverage plans, therefore, be sure to tell your agent which country you are visiting.

If you apply for Travelers Insurance make, sure you read all the information provided carefully. If it should come a time you need to file a complaint against the company for negligence then you will need to know the steps to take to continue the procedure. If you are not happy with the company, then you will need to write letters to the company stating your complaint. If the company fails to reply then you will need to contact the proper authorities. The letter should cover all grounds.

Another issue you want to consider when taking out Travel Insurance while traveling abroad is the unfortunately Terrorist Attacks. This is a realistic concern when traveling, however many Travel Insurance companies will not cover the loss, damage, medical, or other related subjects pertaining to an attack. Standard policies may cover cancellations, missed departures, repatriation, and other costs when traveling, however, the policies may not include the fees from attacks, thus make sure you review the exclusions, restrictions and other details in the policy. If this ever occurs while you are traveling (I pray it never does) then you want to learn all you can about services and support groups available that will assist you even if your insurance company will not. Students often go abroad to study the countries, therefore these persons will need all the coverage they need while traveling.

Travel Insurance Polices were designed to cover anyone that is traveling in the country our outside the country. Travel Insurance Companies will offer Extended Group Plans, Golf Travel Insurance, Backpackers Insurance, Single Polices, Multi-trip polices, Annual Polices and so forth. It makes sense to know what you need before applying for coverage, since the needs factor into the premiums and insurance costs. As for senior citizens, you should never assume that no one would provide you the protection you deserve. The Travel Insurance companies base their costs and decisions to cover on risks. Therefore, simply because you of at age that increases the risk does not mean no one will provide you traveling coverage.

Finally, it makes sense to review your Life Insurance, Health Insurance, car insurance and other types of insurance before considering Travel Insurance. Thus, by reviewing the coverage you will know more of what you need. Car insurance will often cover accidents, including Third-party liabilities (full coverage only); therefore, it would not make sense to pay for extra insurance if you already have the coverage.

Authored by Michael Bens. For more great information about all forms of insurance visit our free online insurance publication the Gabae Insurance Source to find the information you're looking for!

Also you can check out Gabae Insurance Articles to find the articles you're looking for!

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UK Travel Insurance

UK Travel Insurance

Why Travel Insurance?

The D-day is approaching and you are all set to start your travel. You might have cross-checked your luggage, your passport, your visa………..but what about your travel insurance?

While we choose to travel, very few of us realise the importance of travel insurance even though our travel agents tell us a whole saga about its importance. It’s only when we encounter emergency situations like theft, flight cancellation, medical emergencies et al that we realize the importance of it.

Travel insurance is defined as the promise of reimbursement in the case of loss of your health and belongings when you are on a trip.

When we are on for a trip, we open ourselves to many risks and emergency situation which may cause tension and thus make our trip a stressful one.

Let’s find out what all situations you might confront during your travel:

•Cancellation or Delays: If for some unexpected or unknown reason your flight gets delayed or cancelled, your travel insurance will cover you. The cover even includes bankruptcy of the airline.

•Medical Emergencies: If you fall sick or are injured during your travel, your travel insurance will give you financial coverage.

•Loss or Stolen: If your luggage gets lost or stolen during your trip then your travel insurance will cover you as per the plan policy.

While taking up travel insurance cover most of us think about small things like luggage, cancellation and delays. It tends to skip our mind that travel insurance also takes care of major issues like our illness and accidents which we might encounter during our trip. It takes care of hospital and medical treatment while you are abroad.

Travel…… whether for business or pleasure should be accompanied by travel insurance. Travel insurance is specifically designed to cover you against the possible risks you may experience while travelling abroad. Travel insurance makes you prepared to tackle any unexpected situation that may arise while you are on move and gives you peace of mind.

So, next time when you will be on for a trip abroad, make sure to cover up yourself with travel insurance. There are wide number of providers who can offer you travel insurance. The cover and the options will vary according to the company policy.

So, before applying for travel insurance make sure to shop around and find out the right cover which beseems your circumstances and requirements perfectly. Don’t opt for the first insurance cover that comes your way.

Explore the market; educate yourself with all the terms and terminologies of the travel insurance cover that will help you to avail the best travel insurance.


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Travel Insurance, It's a Spiritual Thing

Travel Insurance, It's a Spiritual Thing

Travel Insurance is the last thing many of us think about before a vacation. You feel relief once the trip is paid for. Then you start saving the “spending money.” By the time, you decide where to go, when to go, where to stay, which flight or cruise to take, you just don’t remember “travel insurance” and this could be a huge mistake for all of us.

We invest in a trip to far away places, we carefully purchase new clothes, sun glasses, new luggage, new underwear, and other accessories only to leave ourselves wide open for disaster and lost of money if any of the following events were to occur: Tour company operator decides that she needs a tummy tuck, at your expense, or the tour company disappears, or the Airline goes bankrupt or on strike, or the hurricane of the century, named after your ex-wife, makes a left turn and heads straight for your travel destination, or a part of California falls into the ocean due to an earthquake and this action upsets the rest of the oceans in the world, extreme flight delays, illness during the vacation because you drank the water, and the BIG one, terrorist attack, not to mention if you loose your passport, or worst, the ocean rises up and claims the beach front where you are staying.

All jokes aside, you can purchase travel insurance for protection against trip cancellation, trip interruption, missed connections, airline ticket coverage, medical expense, emergency medical transportation, baggage, baggage delay, accidental death and have 24 hour travel assistance service available to you from any where in the world.

The "Real" Reasons to purchase Travel Insurance

OK, enough of the negative. I'm sure you get the point. However, there is a more important reason to purchase Travel Insurance; It protects your assets back home if something were to happen during your trip.

Example: What about senior citizens who have waited their entire life to travel only to find out that Medicare will NOT cover anyone outside the United States! Can you image spending a sizable amount of your retirement income to pay medical bills in a foreign country? There are Major Medical Polices for travelers (including seniors) who are going abroad for at least 6 months and require more permanent insurance. These plans provide comprehensive medical protection including emergency medical treatment, wellness care and optional prescription drug coverage.

Example: People who had travel insurance had an entirely different experience when Emily (Hurricane) hit the Mexican Yucatan in July of 2005. First, everyone called and went to the airport trying to catch a flight out. At some point, there were no more flights out, there were only buses moving thousands of tourist inland away from the storm. Those with Travel Insurance were not concern with "cost" (I am sure it was enough just to worry about your life) realizing that they would be reimbursed through their Policy. Those without Insurance needed to be concerned with the cost of accommodations and food until Emily got a better attitude. For sure, many of the tourist without travel insurance had to spend a portion of their upcoming monthly budget before making it back home safely. (I wonder what happen to those who had reached their limit on the credit cards) We won't go into what happen to the tourist that were staying in small hotels when Katrina hit town!

Another example of the “real” reasons to purchase Travel Insurance, you are skiing in the Alps, you are dogging the moguls (or they are dogging you) and you slip in the turn. No real problem, but you have to be airlifted to the nearest hospital to have x-rays taken. The cost of the airlift? Who pays? You do, if you don’t have the proper (travel) medical insurance or accident insurance. (Will paying for a helicopter ride to a hospital upset your monthly budget back home?)

And what about the classic example? You leave your money pouch with your credit cards and your Travelers Checks in the cab on the way back to your hotel. It happens all the time. No insurance, No reimbursement.

Important Information:

Please note, this is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: With the majority of the Travel Insurance companies, you MUST apply for the default, terrorism insurance and pre-existing insurance WITHIN 10 days of the initial booking of your trip. Bottom line, you can't wait until your destination is on the US State Department's Travel Warning List to purchase Insurance.

The less you have to worry about on vacations, the safer you will be. When traveling outside of the US, a good deal of your attention must be given to reviewing your surroundings. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Enough of the examples. If you protect yourself and your investment, you probably won’t need the Insurance Its’ almost like the Insurance Companies put an invisible “umbrella of protection” around us, just so they won’t have to pay or is that our prayers keeping us safe?

This article was written by Cassandra Ingraham, webmaster for http://www.travel360degrees.com/travel_insurance_001.htm a site where travelers have saved hundreds of dollars on consolidated airfares and can link to dozens of travel insurance companies to compare benefits.

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