There’s often a misconception that life insurance only serves to provide for loved ones in the event of death. While a life insurance policy certainly does that, it also has the potential to integrate as part of an overall strategy. Life insurance can help manage risk and protect against the potential financial fallout from unexpected events. Here are five ways that life insurance may fit into a financial strategy.
1. Income replacement
The most apparent function of life insurance is to replace income in the event of the policyholder’s premature death. If your family depends on your income, life insurance can help them maintain their standard of living. For instance, the payout could help cover day-to-day expenses, mortgage payments, and car payments or even fund future needs, such as children’s education. This preservation is crucial for those with dependents and becomes critical to one’s overall financial strategy.
2. Debt repayment
Life insurance can help settle outstanding debts in the event of the policyholder’s passing. The proceeds can cover various types of debt, including personal loans, credit card debts, and mortgages. Without a life insurance payout, these debts must be cleared by family members or from the deceased’s estate, which may inflict additional financial stress on loved ones.
3. Estate planning
Life insurance can be crucial in estate planning, particularly regarding tax efficiency. The death benefit paid out by a life insurance policy is generally income tax-free to beneficiaries, although estate tax considerations depend on individual circumstances and applicable federal and state laws. Furthermore, life insurance can also be structured to cover any potential inheritance or estate taxes, preserving the value of one’s estate for their heirs.
4. Cash value accumulation
Some permanent life insurance policies may accumulate cash value on a tax-deferred basis, depending on the policy and market condition. The accumulation can be used as supplemental retirement income or for other reasons.
It’s essential to note that accessing the cash value occurs through a policy loan. A financial professional can help determine the loan’s impact on the policy and the policy owner’s obligations for repayment.
5. Business succession planning
Some permanent life insurance policies may accumulate cash value on a tax-deferred basis, depending on the policy and market conditions. Policies can fund buy-sell agreements, protect against the loss of key personnel, or provide liquidity to pay estate taxes, preventing the need to sell a business upon the owner’s death. This flexibility makes life insurance a crucial part of any business continuity plan.
In conclusion, life insurance is a financial safety net for loved ones and offers numerous benefits that integrate seamlessly into a broader financial strategy. Therefore, it is crucial to work with insurance and financial professionals who understand your financial situation and long-term objectives.
SWG4394310-0425b This information is provided as general information and is not intended to be specific financial guidance. Before you make any decisions regarding your personal financial situation, you should consult a financial or tax professional to discuss your individual circumstances and objectives. Policy loans and withdrawals will reduce available cash values and death benefits, and may cause the policy to lapse or affect any guarantees against lapse. Additional premium payments may be required to keep the policy in force. In the event of a lapse, outstanding policy loans in excess of unrecovered cost basis will be subject ordinary income tax. Withdrawals are generally income tax-free, unless the withdrawal amount exceeds the amount of premium paid. Tax laws are subject to change. Clients should consult their tax professional.
Sources:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jamiehopkins/2021/07/01/6-uses-of-life-insurance-in-financial-planning/
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