What is Term Insurance? Definition & Meaning of Term Plan (2024)

July 22, 2024

What is Term Insurance? Definition & Meaning of Term Plan (1)

Table of Content

1. Why Term Insurance is better?

2. Some of the key features that make term plans indispensable include

3. Who should buy Term Insurance plans?

4. Factors to Consider before Buying a Term Insurance Plan

5. Types of Term Insurance

6. How Term Life Insurance Works?

7. What is the Online Term Insurance Buying Process?

8. Why buy HDFC LIFE Click 2 Protect Super?

9. How much Term Cover do I need?

10. Conclusion on What is Term Insurance

11. FAQs about What is Term Insurance

Term plans provide pure life cover. This means there is no savings / profits component. They are basic plans which make life insurance more affordable vis-à-vis other options. It is possible for the policyholder to opt for a larger life cover at a lower premium when compared to a similar endowment plan.

Some of the key features that make term plans indispensable include

1. Larger life cover

Since term life insurance plans are more affordable it is possible for an individual to opt for a higher life cover for the same premium as an endowment plan. For e.g. a 30-year old can get a term plan with a cover of Rs 1 crore for a 30-year term by paying a premium.

The Rs 1 crore endowment plan would most likely be out of reach for most 30-year-olds. However, purchasing a term plan for a comparable coverage is more reasonable.

You can even avail life cover till the age of 100 years by opting for a whole life insurance.

2. Riders

The policyholder can attach riders to the term plan, thereby enhancing the utility of the policy. So by opting for a critical illness rider or acritical illness plan, for instance, he is entitled to receive the sum assured on being diagnosed with the critical illness. This is in addition to the death benefit of an equal amount on death over the term of the policy. There are other riders to choose from like - loss of employment cover, disability cover, waiver of premium cover, among others. The policyholder should select riders based on his specific needs to make the life cover more suitable and meaningful.

3. Enhanced cover

Certain insurance companies provide the flexibilityto enhance life insurance coverage throughout critical lifestages of the policyholder's. For instance, the policyholder may be permitted to enhance life cover by 50% at the time of marriage and by 25% at the time of turning a parent. This makes it possible for him to start with a modest cover and then enhance it as responsibilities increase as also the ability to pay higher premium.

4. Innovative features

While insurance companies have been quick to innovate in general, they have been most innovative with regards to what is term plans. For instance, companies have been quick and proactive in cutting premium rates even offering extra discounts to certain categories like non-smokers, for instance. Buying term plans is now quite convenient thanks to the internet. It is possible for a healthy individual, as defined by the insurer, to buy a term plan over the internet without taking a medical test.

5. Tax Benefits

Buying term life insurance plan can also bring with it a host of tax benefits.As per section 10 (10D) of the Income Tax Act*, the sum assured that a policyholder receives after the maturity of the plan is tax-free; this also applies when the person insured surrenders their policy or loses their life. Furthermore, the bonuses that are received with this amount are also exempt from tax, under section 10 (10D).

6. Multiple Payout Options

When you sign up for a policy, you are required to pay a fixed amount to the chosen insurance provider to receive benefits. You can choose monthly, quarterly or annual payouts, as per your convenience. What this ensures is the death benefit to the beneficiary, in case of the demise of the policyholder. It could either be given out as a lump sum payout or in a staggered manner, which is equal to the sum assured.

7. Premium waiver

Premium waiver, as the term suggests, is a benefit that waives any future premiums in the event of an exceptional condition. For instance, this applies in cases where the insured policyholder is a victim of permanent disability due to an accident. This is applicable only if all the previous premiums have been paid.

Term insurance plans are affordable life cover options for everyone, whether they are business persons or salaried employees. These plans protect against life's uncertainties at any age.

In their 20s, opting for a plan with high coverage and low premiums is a wise decision. In their 30s, term insurance helps protect growing families and manage increasing financial responsibilities. Even in their late 40s and 50s, it provides enough coverage for major expenses like children's education and weddings, while also aiding inretirement planning.

It’s also crucial to secure the financial future of homemakers with the help ofterm insurance for housewife.

Factors to Consider before Buying a Term Insurance Plan

Some of the key features and benefits of term insurance plans include:

1. Protection against uncertainties:

Term insurance plans offer protection against uncertainties, ensuring the financial well-being of your family. With affordable premiums, you can provide substantial coverage and ensure a worry-free future for your loved ones.

2. Incorporating add-on riders:

Add-on riders like the Accidental Death and Dismemberment Rider and the Waiver of Premium Plus Rider. These riders come at an extra cost but provide additional benefits, giving you comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.

3. Coverage for critical illnesses:

While critical illnesses may feel distant in your 20s and 30s, their impact can be devastating. To address this, consider adding a critical illness rider to your term insurance plan. This additional coverage provides financial support in the event of covered illnesses, protecting your savings.

4. Protection against accidental death or disability:

Term insurance is crucial for protecting against the financial burdens of unpredictable accidents. Acting promptly to secure an accidental death or disability rider ensures comprehensive coverage for accidental dismemberment and death.

5. Availing tax benefits*:

Term insurance plans provide tax relief up to Rs. 1.5 lakh under Section 80C, while critical illness covers offer additional tax benefits under Section 80D.

6. Multiple payout options:

Term insurance plans provide multiple payout options, allowing your family to receive financial assistance in a structured manner that meets their specific needs during unexpected situations.

What is Term Insurance? Definition & Meaning of Term Plan (2)

What is Term Insurance? Definition & Meaning of Term Plan (3)

In India, term insurance has become a popular and cost-effective option for life insurance, guaranteeing financial security for policyholders and their families.Here are the different types of term insurance available in India:

1. Level Term Insurance:

The most common type of policy, providing a fixed sum assured throughout the life of the policy. Policyholders benefit from a predictable cost structure because premiums are constant.

2. Increasing Term Insurance:

To offset the effects of inflation, this variant sees the sum assured gradually increase over the policy term. Despite slightly higher premiums than level term insurance, the policy is a robust hedge against the rising cost of living.

3. Decreasing Term Insurance:

This type of policy is tailored to individuals with specific financial obligations, like loans, to ensure that the sum assured declines with time, in line with the decreasing financial obligations. In the meantime, premiums remain constant, ensuring stable coverage.

4. Term Insurance with Return of Premium (TROP):

In this policy, if the policyholder survives the policy term, the total premiums paid will be refunded. Although TROP premiums are higher than traditional term plans, TROP offers a savings component, making it an appealing option for some.

5. Convertible Term Insurance:

In addition to offering adaptability, this type allows policyholders to convert their term policy into an endowment or whole life policy at a later stage. Individuals whose needs may evolve over time benefit from this flexibility.

It is crucial for Indian individuals to understand the nuances of these term insurance options in order to make well-informed decisions based on their unique financial goals and family needs. In order to ensure financial stability and comprehensive coverage in the face of life's uncertainties, assess your personal circ*mstances and choose a policy aligned with your long-term goals.

How Term Life Insurance Works?

Level term policies are policies with level premiums for specific durations like 10, 20, or 30 years, commonly referred to as "level term" policies. Insurance companies charge policyholders a premium, typically paid monthly, in order to provide them with the benefits they are entitled to.

Premiums are calculated by insurance companies based on factors such as health, age, and life expectancy. There might be a need for a medical exam based on your health and your family's medical history, depending on the policy you choose.

Generally, premiums are fixed and paid throughout the term. The insurance company pays the death benefit to the beneficiaries if the insured person dies before the policy expires. In the event the term ends and the individual dies afterward, there is no coverage or payout. The insurance can be renewed or extended, but the new monthly premium is determined by the person's age at the time of renewal.

Most term life insurance policies are convertible, allowing them to be converted into permanent life insurance policies within a specified period of time. Premiums increase when term life insurance is converted to permanent life insurance.

To understand the significance of term life insurance for your family and identify a plan that suits your specific needs, it is essential to grasp the significance of life insurance for your family and understand its meaning. You must understand the meaning of term insurance and its role in providing financial security to ensure your family can cover regular expenses, a child's education, and other responsibilities.

Term insurance is not only important when understanding the meaning and recognising the importance of purchasing a policy, but it is also necessary to research the meaning, features, and benefits of term plans. In just a few simple steps, you can purchase term insurance plans online quickly and easily.

To buy a term insurance policy, follow these steps:

1. Determine Your Family's Financial Needs Before Investing in Term Insurance Make sure you fully understand your family's financial needs. Take into account your family's income sources, dependents, financial liabilities, and lifestyle expenses. You should consider the life goals of your spouse and children before buying a term policy.

2. Before investing in term life insurance, calculate the premium you will need to pay based on factors such as life cover, policy tenure, plan type, age, gender, and smoking habits. Calculate your term insurance premium using an online calculator. Make sure you have coverage that is 15-25 times your annual income so that you are adequately protected financially.

3. Check the Claim Settlement Ratio of the Insurer (CSR) before selecting a term insurance policy. This is the ratio of claims received to claims settled during the past financial year. A high CSR indicates the insurer's commitment to efficient claim settlement.

4. You can customize your term life insurance with riders that add an extra layer of financial security in case of an emergency.

5. Once you have all the necessary information and understand what is term insurance plan means, you can pay the premium online.

If you require further assistance, please contact the customer service team for more information on term life insurance details and make an informed decision that meets your needs.

Term Insurance Calculator

What is Term Insurance? Definition & Meaning of Term Plan (4) What is Term Insurance? Definition & Meaning of Term Plan (5)

Why buy HDFC LIFE Click 2 Protect Super?

HDFC LIFE Click 2 Protect Super^^ is a versatile term insurance plan that offers comprehensive coverage to safeguard your loved ones in unexpected events. It provides the flexibility to customise coverage according to your individual requirements, ensuring financial stability for your family. With unique features like life stage protection, the plan allows you to adjust coverage as your life progresses. In addition to its robust protection, HDFC LIFE Click 2 Protect Super offers the convenience of online purchasing and the option to enhance coverage with riders. Combining affordability, flexibility, and reliable protection, this plan provides a secure future for you and your family.

Calculating your Human Life Value or HLV is a simple, quick and clear way to answer this question. A life insurance life cover calculator, like the HLV, provides an easy-to-use method of estimating how much cover you might need. Here is a basic rule to determine your HLV:

Age In Years

Income Multiple

18-35

25 times of your annual income

36-45

20 times of your annual income

46-50

15 times of your annual income

51-60

10 times of your annual income


For instance, if a 32-year-old man has an annual income of 10 lakh, the recommended Life Cover for him would be 25 times his income, totaling 2.5 crores.

Conclusion on What is Term Insurance

Term insurance is a type of life insurance that provides coverage for a specific period of time. Beneficiaries receive a death benefit if the insured person dies during the policy term. This type of insurance typically offers the choice between level premiums, where the premium remains the same for the entire term, or increasing premiums, where the premium gradually rises over time. Additionally, some term policies may allow for conversion to permanent insurance, providing the insured with the option to extend coverage beyond the initial term.

1. Who is eligible for term insurance?

In most cases, any person who is 18 or above can get a term insurance policy, while the maximum age limit goes up to 65 years. Please check with your chosen insurance provider, if there are any criteria to fulfill.

2. What are the factors that affect the term insurance premium?

Before your premium is decided, your insurance provider will evaluate certain factors like your age, gender, medical history, location, occupation, lifestyle, and more.

3. Can I buy term insurance for a spouse?

Yes, that option is available if you want to go for it. There are joint-term insurance plans that provide coverage to both you and your spouse, as part of the same policy.

4. How much term insurance do I need?

As per the best practice, the sum assured should always be a minimum of 10 times your annual income; if you choose a higher range, that’s even better. While this is the norm, make your own judgment, based on your individual needs and preferences.

5. What are the minimum and the maximum age to buy a term insurance policy?

You can buy a term insurance policy from the age of 18 to 65 years. But there are exceptions too-certain insurance companies that offer plans to older people too.

6. What is a term insurance rider?

The rider is a benefit that a policyholder can opt for over and above their chosen policy. These provide added assurance in case of accidents, permanent disability, or even critical illnesses.

Similar Articles:

  • 10 FAQs on Term Insurance
  • Demystifying Traditional Term Plans
  • Top Features of Term Plans that You Must Know About
  • What Will Happen When a Term Life Insurance Policy Matures?
  • 4 Simple Methods to Calculate : How Much Term Insurance You Need
  • Factors to consider while buying a term insurance
  • 5 Reasons Self Employed People Should Buy Term Insurance
What is Term Insurance? Definition & Meaning of Term Plan (2024)

FAQs

What is Term Insurance? Definition & Meaning of Term Plan? ›

Term life insurance is a type of life insurance policy that provides coverage for a certain period of time, or a specified “term” of years. If the insured dies during the time period specified and the policy is active, or “in force,” then a death benefit will be paid.

What is the term insurance in simple words? ›

Term Insurance is the simplest and purest form of life insurance. It provides financial protection to your family at the most affordable rates. With term insurance, you can get a large amount of life cover^ (i.e. sum assured) at a relatively low premium rate.

What is the main disadvantage of term life insurance? ›

Term Life insurance Cons: If you outlive the term length, your coverage will end and you won't receive any benefits. You will not be covered your entire lifetime and your policy will not accumulate cash value like an investment account does.

Do you get your money back at the end of a term life insurance? ›

Do you get your money back at the end of a term life insurance policy? No – unless you have a return of premium policy. However, such policies can be 2-4 times more expensive than a regular level term life insurance policy.

What is the meaning of the term plan? ›

Term insurance is a life insurance product, which offers financial coverage to the policyholder for a specific time period. In case of death of the insured individual during the policy term, the death benefit is paid by the company to the beneficiary.

Is term insurance worth it? ›

A term plan holds a low premium compared to most other life insurance policies. However, you should invest money in a term plan at a young age. The primary justification for investing in a term plan early is that the earlier you begin, the lower the premiums you will have to pay and the greater the coverage amount.

What happens to term life insurance at the end of the term? ›

When your term life insurance plan expires, the policy's coverage ends, and you stop paying premiums. Therefore, if you pass away after the policy ends, your beneficiaries will not be eligible to receive a death benefit.

At what age should you stop term life insurance? ›

At What Age Is Life Insurance No Longer Needed? Life insurance is no longer needed for many people once they reach their 60s or 70s. At this point they have retired, their kids have grown up, and they've paid off their mortgage and other debts.

Which is better, term or life insurance? ›

Coverage Duration : Term insurance plans offer longer term coverage period which can go up to 30 to 35 years of age of the policyholder. Other life insurance plans offer coverage for shorter durations as the tenure for these plans start from 5 years and goes up to 30 years.

Can you cash out a term life insurance policy? ›

Term life is designed to cover you for a specified period (say 10, 15 or 20 years) and then end. Because the number of years it covers are limited, it generally costs less than whole life policies. But term life policies typically don't build cash value. So, you can't cash out term life insurance.

What is an example of a term plan? ›

Cost of Premiums -

Based on your lifestyle and age, you would require to pay a small number of premiums to opt for term plan cover. For example: if you are a 25 year old healthy non-smoking male would have to pay ₹ 630 per month for a death payout of ₹ 1 crore for a Policy Term and Premium Paying Term of 20 years.

What is the age limit for term insurance? ›

Term life insurance is a pure risk protection plan that provides a death benefit in case of the policyholder's untimely demise during the policy term. However, the term insurance age limit is a minimum of 18 years and a maximum of 65 years to buy term plan.

What happens to term insurance after maturity? ›

Since term plans are pure insurance products, they do not offer any maturity or other benefits. So, if you outlive the term life insurance plan, you will not receive any returns or benefits.

What is the definition of terms insurance? ›

Insurance is a contract, represented by a policy, in which a policyholder receives financial protection or reimbursem*nt against losses from an insurance company. The company pools clients' risks to make payments more affordable for the insured.

What is the definition of insurance in short term? ›

Short term insurance is insurance that provides financial coverage for a specific asset for a limited duration of time, usually less than one year. For example, a person may get a short term property insurance policy that only covers their property for six months.

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