Saturday, November 08, 2025

Business

Term Insurance vs Life Insurance: Which One Should You Choose?

PUNJAB NEWS EXPRESS | November 08, 2025 07:13 PM

We always think of securing the future of our family members who depend on us. We want to secure their future in terms of financial aid, post our When you think about protecting your family's future, insurance comes to mind. But which type should you pick? Let's make this simple.

Term Insurance vs Life Insurance

When it comes to Term Insurance vs Life Insurance, Both have their place depending on the situation and needs.

For most young families, term insurance makes more sense. You get maximum protection when you need it most. Your money goes further.

Traditional life insurance works if you want savings along with protection. But remember, you'll pay more for this combination.

What is Life Insurance?

Life insurance is like a safety net for your family. If something happens to you, your family gets the life insurance money to handle their expenses.

There are different types of life insurance. Some give you money back. Others help you save while protecting your family.

What is Term Insurance?

Term insurance is the simplest form of life insurance. You pay a small amount every year. If something happens to you during that time, your family gets a big sum of money.

Think of it like this: You rent protection for a fixed period. Maybe 20 years or 30 years.

The Big Difference

Term Insurance:

  • You pay less money
  • You get protection for a fixed time
  • No savings or bonus
  • Pure protection only

Traditional Life Insurance:

  • You pay more money
  • You get protection plus savings
  • You might get money back later
  • Works like insurance + piggy bank

Why Do People Choose Term Insurance?

It's Affordable

Term insurance costs much less. A 30-year-old person can get 1 crore coverage for just a few thousand rupees per year.

Higher Coverage

Because it's cheap, you can buy more protection. Your family gets better financial security.

Simple to Understand

No complex calculations. No confusing terms. Just straight protection.

Why Do People Choose Traditional Life Insurance?

You Get Money Back

Some plans return your money after the policy ends. You don't lose what you paid.

Savings Component

Part of your payment goes into savings. It grows over time.

Lifelong Protection

Some plans cover you for your whole life, not just a fixed period.

Which One Should You Pick?

Choose Term Insurance If:

  • You want maximum protection at low cost
  • You have a young family depending on you
  • You have loans like home loans or car loans
  • You want to cover your children's education costs
  • Your budget is tight

Choose Traditional Life Insurance If:

  • You want protection plus savings
  • You can afford higher payments
  • You want money back after some years
  • You need a forced saving habit

How Much Coverage Do You Need?

This is important. Don't just pick any random number.

A simple rule: Your coverage should be at least 10-15 times your yearly income.

For example, if you earn 5 lakhs per year, get coverage of at least 50-75 lakhs.

Use a Term Plan Calculator

Don't guess your needs. Use a term plan calculator online.

What Does It Do?

A term plan calculator helps you find:

  • How much coverage you need
  • What premium you'll pay
  • Which plan fits your budget
  • How long you need protection

How to Use It:

Just enter simple details:

  • Your age
  • Your income
  • Your family size
  • Your existing loans
  • Your future goals

The calculator does the math for you. It shows different options. You can compare and choose what works best.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying Too Little Coverage

Many people buy small amounts to save money. This defeats the purpose. Your family won't have enough support.

Hiding Health Problems

Always tell the truth about your health. If you hide something, your claim might get rejected later.

Not Reviewing Your Plan

Life changes. You get married. You have kids. You buy a house. Review your coverage every few years.

Choosing Based Only on Price

The cheapest plan isn't always the best. Check the company's claim settlement record.

What Should You Do Now?

Step 1: Calculate how much coverage you need. Use a term plan calculator for this.

Step 2: Check your budget. How much can you comfortably pay each year?

Step 3: Compare different options. Look at coverage, premium, and features.

Step 4: Buy from a trusted company. Check their claim settlement ratio.

Step 5: Don't delay. The younger you are, the less you pay.

Remember This

Insurance isn't for you. It's for the people you love. It's for your parents who depend on you. For your spouse who shares your dreams. For your children who need education.

Don't think of premium as an expense. Think of it as protection money for your family's future. Start small if needed. But start today. Tomorrow might be too late. Your family's security is worth it.

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