Saving on Life Insurance: Comparing Quotes and More
Life insurance isn’t a fun topic to discuss, nor is it a particularly exciting purchase to make. Most of us would rather spend our hard-earned dollars on fun things like cars, home improvements, and vacations.
But as it happens, life insurance is a necessary purchase for most of us. So to help you maximize your life insurance coverage while minimizing your premium dollars, here are four tips to help you save money—so you can spend it on the fun things in life.
Tip #1: Shop Around
Life insurance policies aren’t one-size-fits-all. And while comparing life insurance quotes may seem like more work that it’s worth, web sites like this one make it easy to compare free life insurance quotes—and let local agents compete for your business. Also make sure you know what type of life insurance is best for you -- Term Life Insurance vs. Whole Life vs. Universal Life Insurance.
Tip #2: Ask about Discounts
Many insurance companies offer discounts to policyholders if they hold additional policies through the same company (like home or health insurance, for example), as well as for non-smokers. Be sure to ask your agent about discounts up front so you can score a comprehensive policy for a good price.
Tip #3: Make Healthy Choices
Some days it’s hard to get on the treadmill or eat that salad. But more and more insurers are using Body Mass Index (BMI)—a measure of fat based on height and weight—to determine premiums for life and health insurance. Smokers also pay more for life insurance.
So if you’re having trouble finding the motivation to shed a few pounds or kick smoking for good, extra cash in your wallet should provide some incentive!
Tip #4: Buy from Reputable Companies
Remember that not all life insurance carriers are created equal. In addition to shopping online, the web has also made it easier to do a little homework on prospective insurers. You can visit the Better Business Bureau and AM Best online to learn about your insurer’s financial solidity and customer satisfaction rating.
Your state department of insurance is another resource that often goes untapped by consumers. You should give them all call or visit them online to make sure your prospective agent is licensed to sell life insurance in your state—before you buy a policy.
Go Forth and Save!
Life insurance may not the most glamorous purchase you’ll ever make, but it’s an essential step in protecting the livelihood of your family. Keep these tips in mind as you shop for a life insurance policy to ensure that you find the best policy for a price that fits your budget. And, if you’re ready to begin shopping for quotes, you can start your search right here!