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    Life Insurance

    – A Promise of Security and Peace –

    Secure your family’s future with our term life insurance plans. Apply now today to find the best coverage to get started.

    Life insurance is a contract that offers financial coverage to an individual in exchange for periodic payments to an insurance company. This policy ensures a specific sum of money is paid either upon the policyholder’s death or after a set period.

    A life insurance policy is an agreement between an insurer and a policyholder, wherein the insurer commits to pay a certain amount in return for an insurance premium, either at the insured person’s death or after a predetermined period.

    Life insurance secures the future of your loved ones by providing a lump sum payment, known as a death benefit, in the event of an untimely death. Upon the policy’s maturity, the policyholder receives the sum assured along with any accrued bonuses, serving as a maturity benefit from the insurer.

    Car Loan Details

    Interest Rate (Monthly reducing balance)

    Starts from 8.70% p.a.

    Guarantor Requirement

    Varies with bank

    Pre-closure Charges

    Varies with bank

    Loan Tenure

    1 year to 8 years

    Processing Fee

    Depends on the bank

    What are Life Insurance Policies?

    A life insurance policy is a contract between the policyholder and the insurance company. The insured pays a fixed premium at regular intervals, and in return, the insurer promises to pay a predetermined amount after a set period. Life insurance policies can be broadly categorized into two types: pure protection plans and savings plans.

    Pure Protection Plans

    Pure protection plans offer financial security to the policyholder’s family in the event of the policyholder’s demise. This type of plan provides a lump sum payment, ensuring that the family is financially supported during difficult times.

    Savings Plans

    Savings plans are designed to help policyholders achieve their long-term financial goals. These plans not only provide life coverage but also come with added benefits, such as maturity benefits, bonuses, and investment opportunities.

    Types of Life Insurance Policies

    1. Term Life Insurance

    Term life insurance provides a death benefit payable only if the policyholder dies within the policy term. The nominee can claim the death benefit after the policyholder’s death. If the policyholder survives the policy term, the coverage ceases without any maturity value. These policies can be enhanced with riders for additional coverage, such as accidental death benefits and critical illness benefits.

    2. Term Return of Premium (TROP)

    TROP is a unique term life insurance that offers a survival benefit. If the insured survives the entire policy term, all premiums paid (with GST) are refunded.

    3. Whole Life Insurance

    Whole life insurance covers the policyholder until 100 years of age, providing financial coverage throughout the policy term.

    4. Endowment Policies

    Endowment policies combine guaranteed returns with life coverage. These plans offer a lump sum payout on maturity and allow the nominee to make a death claim in the event of the policyholder’s untimely death. Some endowment plans also include bonus benefits.

    5. Unit-Linked Insurance Plans (ULIP)

    ULIPs are wealth-building plans that combine investment and insurance. Policyholders can invest in various funds, such as equity, hybrid, and bonds, according to their risk appetite. These plans offer market-linked returns, a five-year lock-in period, loyalty additions, and options for partial withdrawal and fund switching.

    6. Money Back Policies

    Money back policies provide a percentage of the assured sum at regular intervals and return the remaining corpus with a bonus if the policyholder survives the term. In the event of the policyholder’s death, the entire sum assured is paid to the nominee. These policies also offer maturity benefits with lump sum payments.

    7. Child Plan

    Child plans ensure financial security for a child’s future goals using investment returns. These policies offer life cover to the nominee and fund the balance premium in the absence of the policyholder.

    8. Whole Life Policy

    Whole life policies offer 99 years of coverage with extended family protection. These plans are ideal for policyholders with dependents, providing lifetime protection for the policyholder and their children.

    9. Pension, Retirement, or Annuity Plans

    Pension or retirement plans help build wealth for the non-working years of the policyholder and offer financial protection to family members. These plans come with various withdrawal options, such as lump sum payments, regular income, or both.

    Other Life Insurance Policies

    Children Life Insurance Policy: These plans combine savings and investment to meet children’s future financial needs, offering intermediate withdrawals or provision for withdrawal after the child reaches adulthood.

    Group Life Insurance: Employers, banks, NGOs, non-banking financial organizations, professional groups, and microfinance institutions offer these policies to employees. Group life insurance provides financial support to employees’ families in the event of untimely death and may include critical illness coverage, disability benefits, and outstanding loan coverage for debtors.

    Features and Benefits of Life Insurance Policy

    Financial Security

    Life insurance policies provide the policyholder’s family with long-term financial security in case of an emergency, ensuring they are financially protected.

    Maturity Benefits

    At the end of the policy term, insurance companies may offer maturity benefits, depending on the type of life insurance policy.

    Death Benefit

    In the event of the policyholder’s demise, the insurer provides financial support through a death payout. The entire sum assured, plus any cumulative bonuses, is paid to the nominated individual.

    Assured Returns

    Life insurance policies guarantee a predetermined sum after a specified term, which can cover expenses like your child’s education and other future needs.

    Tax Benefits

    Policyholders can receive tax benefits on their premium payments under sections 80C and 80D. Additionally, they are entitled to tax exemptions under section 10(10D) according to current tax laws.

    Retirement Planning

    Annuity-based life insurance policies assist in preparing for a secure retirement by providing a monthly pension upon policy maturity.

    Riders

    Riders are add-ons to the base plan, such as waiver of premiums and critical illness coverage, allowing you to customize your life insurance policy to meet your unique needs.

    Wealth Creation

    Some life insurance policies, like ULIPs, savings, and endowment plans, offer wealth creation benefits in addition to protection. Depending on your risk tolerance, you can choose different plans to accumulate savings for your long-term objectives.

    Loan Facility

    Certain life insurance plans offer the facility to borrow a portion of the policy’s value or the sum assured, based on the policy’s terms and conditions.

    Flexible Premium Payment

    You can choose how frequently to pay your premiums based on your needs. Available premium payment options include monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annually.

    Additional Benefits of Life Insurance Policies
    • Financial Protection: Provides financial protection in case of unforeseen death.
    • Long-Term Investment: It is a long-term investment with fixed payments.
    • Medical and Critical Illness Coverage: Covers medical expenses and critical illnesses.
    • Promotes Savings: Encourages long-term savings and financial security.
    • Regulated Growth: Regulated for secure, long-term financial growth.
    • Retirement Income: Provides a steady income during retirement.
    • Economic Participation: Allows participation in economic growth with no investment risk.
    • Loan Against Policy: Offers the option to borrow against the policy.
    • Loan and Mortgage Coverage: Covers loans and mortgages in unforeseen circumstances.
    • Tax Savings: Provides tax benefits to save money.

    Comparison of Different Types of Life Insurance Plans

    Life insurance has evolved from being a luxury to a necessity, playing a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of our lives. Despite the country’s life insurance penetration not yet matching its population growth, hundreds of new people enroll in various life insurance plans every day. Selecting the appropriate type of insurance can be challenging with the numerous options available from different companies.

    Key Aspects of Different Types of Life Insurance Policies in India

    The table below highlights and compares key aspects of various life insurance policies in India:

    Type of PlanPolicy TermMaturity Benefit
    Term Plan5 years to 85 yearsMaturity Benefit is only accessible if the Return of Premium option is selected
    Endowment Plan5 years to 35 yearsYes, when the policy's term expires
    ULIP10 years to 20 yearsYes, when the policy's term expires
    Annuity/Pension PlanEntire lifeRegular earnings until survival
    Whole Life InsuranceUntil you attain the age of 100 yearsWhen you attain the age of 100 years
    Term Return of Premium Plan5 years to 65 yearsBenefits of survival on maturity

    *Note – The term varies from plan to plan, with the numbers mentioned above reflecting an overall average.

    How to Save Tax with a Life Insurance Policy?

    In today’s world, having life insurance is essential. Even if your partner has a life insurance policy and a group policy through their employer, it is crucial to secure a comprehensive life cover for yourself. While life insurance won’t alleviate emotional distress, it provides a significant financial safety net during times of need. The insurance market is currently teeming with a variety of insurance products and services. When selecting a life insurance policy, understanding its tax implications is imperative.

    Section 80C Deduction: Premium Payments

    Under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, if you are paying premiums for your life insurance policy or for the life of your spouse, children, or parents, you are eligible for a tax deduction. This deduction applies whether your child is a minor or not. However, to claim this deduction, the premium paid must not exceed 10% of the sum assured for policies issued after April 1, 2012.

    Section 10(10D) Deduction: Maturity Benefits

    According to Section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, the maturity amount received at the end of the policy term is entirely tax-exempt if the premium paid does not exceed 10% of the sum assured for policies issued after April 1, 2012, and 20% of the sum assured for policies issued before April 1, 2012. This tax exemption ensures that the policyholder enjoys the full benefits of their life insurance plan.

    Car Loan EMI Calculator

    The Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs) that you will pay will depend on a few key factors.

    • The loan amount.
    • The interest rate that is applicable to the loan.
    • The tenure of the loan.
    • The processing fees.

    The higher the loan amount, the higher your EMI will be. Similarly, the shorter the loan tenure the higher the EMI.

    EMI:

    0 INR

    Total Interest Payable:

    0 INR

    Total of Payments (Principal + Interest):

    0 INR

    To calculate the EMI on your car loan, you can use the formula:

    EMI=P×R×(1+R)N(1+R)N−1\text{EMI} = \frac{P \times R \times (1+R)^N}{(1+R)^N – 1}

    where:

    • ‘R’ is the rate of interest
    • ‘P’ is the principal amount
    • ‘N’ is the loan tenure

    Manual calculations can be error-prone, complex, and time-consuming, so using an online personal loan EMI calculator is preferable. This calculator requires only a few basic details such as the interest rate, loan amount, and loan tenure.

    Once these details are entered, the EMI amount is calculated instantly. Additionally, the calculator provides the total interest amount and an amortization schedule for easy reference.

    GST on Life Insurance Premium

    Life insurance is not exempt from GST (Goods and Services Tax). The introduction of GST has impacted the life insurance industry, leading to an increase in insurance premiums from 15% to 18%. This change affects those paying premiums for health, car, and life insurance, resulting in a higher financial burden.

    When life insurance companies calculate premiums, they consider several factors. Life insurance is a form of investment, and even low premiums can yield high returns over time. However, obtaining a life insurance policy with a low premium may not always be feasible as certain requirements set by the insurer must be met. Some individuals manage to secure similar life insurance policies at significantly lower costs. This is often because they have made wise life choices that enable them to benefit from lower premiums.

    Documents Required for Buying a Life Insurance Policy

    Following are the documents you will require to purchase a life insurance policy:

    • Passport-sized photographs.
    • Age Proof (Driving License / PAN Card / Passport / SSC Certificate).
    • Proof of Residence (Passport / Telephone Bill / Electricity Bill / Ration Card / Water Bill / Voter ID).
    • Identity Proof (Ration Card / Voter ID / PAN Card / Passport / Driving License).
    • Proof of Income (Pension Pass Book / Income Tax Returns /Form 16/ Salary Slip).

    How Does Life Insurance Work?

    1. Choose the Right Policy: Start by selecting a life insurance policy that best fits your needs and financial goals.

    2. Select Your Premium Payment Option: Decide between annual or monthly premium payments based on the policy’s terms and your budget.

    3. Notify and File a Claim: In the unfortunate event of the insured’s passing, it’s essential for the nominee to inform the insurer and file a claim.

    4. Submit Required Documents: To process the claim, the nominee must submit relevant documents, including a death certificate and identity proof.

    5. Claim Verification: The life cover amount will be disbursed to the nominee only after thorough verification of the submitted documents.

    Importance of Life Insurance

    Life insurance provides invaluable support in the event of the policyholder’s death, ensuring financial security and long-term well-being for family members. Here are key reasons why life insurance is necessary:

    1. Financial Security for Family: Life insurance safeguards your family’s financial future, covering regular expenses and maintaining their standard of living after your passing.

    2. Affordable Coverage: It offers high coverage at reasonable premium rates, allowing you to secure your family’s financial stability without straining your budget.

    3. Comprehensive Protection: In addition to death benefits, many life insurance policies also cover critical illnesses, alleviating the financial burden of medical expenses.

    4. Retirement Preparation: Life insurance can help ensure a steady income stream during retirement, contributing to your financial security in your later years.

    5. Tax Benefits: Life insurance offers tax advantages under Sections 80C and 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, helping you save on taxes while securing your future.

    6. Corpus Accumulation: Over time, life insurance allows you to build a corpus, providing financial resources for future goals like purchasing a home or funding your children’s education.

    7. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your loved ones’ financial future is protected during difficult times brings peace of mind, making life insurance a crucial component of your financial planning.

    How Much Life Insurance Coverage is Required

    Choosing the right life insurance is crucial for your family’s financial security. When calculating the necessary amount of coverage, consider the following factors:

    1. Assess Your Family’s Needs: Evaluate your family’s financial requirements, including total income and monthly expenses, to determine the appropriate coverage.

    2. Account for Existing Debts: Ensure that your life insurance policy covers any outstanding debts or loans, providing peace of mind for your loved ones.

    3. Use HLV Calculation: Utilize a Human Life Value (HLV) calculator to obtain an accurate estimate of the life insurance coverage you need.

    4. Prepare for Medical Emergencies: Select a policy that provides sufficient coverage for unforeseen medical or financial emergencies.

    5. Income Replacement: Choose a coverage amount that can replace your income, ensuring that your family can maintain their lifestyle in your absence.

    6. Consider Life Stage Changes: As your life evolves, select a life insurance policy that adequately covers your needs at different life stages throughout the policy term.

    How to Claim Life Insurance?

    Life insurance claims can be made under two main circumstances:

    1. Death of the Life Insured
    2. Maturity of the Life Insurance Policy

    Additionally, claims may be made for rider benefits. Here’s how to navigate the claims process:

    How to Claim Life Insurance in Case of Death

    To file a life insurance claim following the death of the insured, follow these steps:

    1. Notify the Insurer: Inform the insurance company about the death, providing necessary details.

    2. Submit Required Documents: Provide the death certificate and a duly filled claim form.

    3. Provide Original Policy: Include the original insurance policy and a discharge form.

    4. Include Assigned Policy Deed: If applicable, submit the assigned policy deed.

    5. Legal Proof of Claimant’s Entitlement: Offer any legal documentation proving the claimant’s right to the benefit.

    6. Additional Documents: Provide any other documents requested by the insurer.

    How to Claim Life Insurance After Maturity

    To claim your life insurance upon maturity, follow these steps:

    1. Receive Bank Discharge Form: Obtain the discharge form from your insurer.

    2. Complete the Form: Fill out the discharge form accurately.

    3. Submit the Form: Send the completed form along with the required supporting documents.

    4. Receive Benefits: Upon approval, you will receive the sum assured along with any maturity bonuses.

    How to Claim Riders in Life Insurance

    If you have rider benefits to claim, follow these instructions:

    1. Pay Extra Premiums: Ensure you have paid the additional premiums for the rider benefits.

    2. Follow Claim Procedure: Adhere to the specific claim procedure outlined for each rider.

    3. Death-Related Riders: For death-related riders, follow the same process as the death claim.

    4. Other Riders: For claims related to other riders, submit a signed claim form along with a copy of the policy.

    Documents Required for Initiating Claiming Procedures

    The following are the documents required for initiating claiming procedures:

    • Post-mortem reports
    • Original policy certificate
    • Death certificate issued by the local authority
    • FIR (First Information Report)
    • Claim form which dully filled and signed by the applicant
    • Bank statement
    • Cancelled cheque
    • KYC documents of beneficiary, such as copy of address proof and photo ID proof
    • Summary of hospital discharge
    • Legal proof of the person making the claim in case he or she is not an assignee or nominee

    Guidelines for Beneficiaries Claiming Life Insurance:

    To claim the death benefit, the nominee must file a death claim. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:

    1. Obtain Claim Intimation Form: Get the claim intimation form from your insurer for physical policies or apply online for digital policies.

    2. Include Essential Details: Ensure the claim intimation includes crucial information such as:

      • Policy number
      • Policyholder’s name
      • Place of death
      • Insured person’s name
      • Claimant’s name
    3. Complete Required Forms: The nominee must fill out the necessary death claim forms and provide proof of death.

    4. Submit the Forms: After completing the forms, submit them to the insurance company. The insurer will acknowledge the receipt of the death claim.

    5. Gather Supporting Documents: Collect all required supporting documents to facilitate the claim settlement process.

    6. Submit Documents for Settlement: Submit the gathered documents to the insurance company for the claim settlement.

    7. Review Process: The insurance company will review the submitted forms and documents before making a claim settlement decision.

    What’s the Average Cost of a Life Insurance Plan and what Affects the Price?

    Life insurance policies provide financial security by insuring the life of the insured and offering a lump sum to the insured’s family upon their passing. With a variety of policies available from numerous providers, selecting the right life insurance has become easier. However, it’s crucial to analyze costs and personal needs before making an investment.

    Factors Affecting Life Insurance Policy Premiums

    Several key factors influence life insurance premiums:

    • Weight and Obesity: Overweight or obese individuals may face higher premium rates.
    • Occupation Risk: High-risk professions, such as race car driving, typically result in elevated premiums due to associated dangers.
    • Smoking: Smokers generally pay higher premiums due to increased health risks.
    • Heavy Drinking: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to additional premium costs.

     

    Additional Factors Include:

    • Age
    • Gender
    • Health records
    • Medical history
    • Lifestyle choices
    • Type of policy
    Life Insurance Premium Calculation Steps

    Calculating life insurance premiums involves several steps:

    1. Collect Personal Information: Insurers gather essential details about the applicant, including age, gender, and lifestyle choices.

    2. Evaluate Health and Lifestyle: Underwriters assess the applicant’s health status and lifestyle habits, which significantly impact premium rates.

    3. Analyze Personal History: The insurer reviews medical information and past incidents to gauge risk.

    4. Statistical Data and Actuarial Analysis: Actuaries use statistical models to evaluate the applicant’s risk profile.

    5. Risk Assessment: The likelihood of the applicant making a claim is predicted; higher risk leads to higher premiums.

    6. Mortality and Sickness Tables: Actuaries create tables based on historical data to estimate potential losses.

    7. Modeling Risk: Using the tables, actuaries model the likelihood of illness or death during the policy term.

    8. Determine Premium: The final premium is calculated based on the applicant’s risk profile, with healthier individuals typically paying less.

    Grace Period in Life Insurance

    Key details about the grace period include:

    • If the policyholder fails to pay the premium on time, the grace period allows for payment without penalty.
    • The standard grace period is 30 days for life insurance plans, though it may vary among policies.
    • Benefits remain active during this grace period.
    Cash Value of Life Insurance Plans

    The cash value component of life insurance plans includes:

    • Earning and Borrowing: This part accumulates interest and is available for borrowing or withdrawal.
    • Financial Flexibility: The cash value can serve as a source for loans or premium payments.
    • Wealth Building: It helps in accumulating wealth while enhancing life cover.
    • Premium Allocation: Premiums are divided into parts for wealth creation and financial security.
    • Maturity or Emergency: Once sufficient cash value accumulates, it can be accessed at maturity or used for emergency loans.

    What are the Late Charges on Life Insurance Premiums?

    Policyholders should be aware of the late charges that may apply to life insurance premiums. Here are the key details:

    1. Penalties for Late Payments: Policyholders are required to pay penalties if premiums are not paid on time.

    2. Variable Penalty Amounts: The amount of the penalty can vary depending on the specific policy and the insurance provider.

    3. Policy Reinstatement: To revive a lapsed policy through reinstatement, policyholders must pay all outstanding premiums along with applicable interest rates.

    4. Duration of Late Payment: Late payment charges are also influenced by the duration for which the premium payment is overdue.

    5. Revival Period: A life insurance plan can typically be revived within five years from the last premium payment date.

    How Can You Avoid Paying Late Fees in Life Insurance?

    To prevent late fees on life insurance premiums, consider these important points:

    1. Choose Auto-Debit: Opt for the auto-debit option to ensure timely premium payments without missing deadlines.

    2. Set Payment Reminders: Activate reminder notifications before the premium payment date to avoid delays.

    3. Track Payment Reminders: Keep a close watch on premium payment reminders to stay on top of your obligations.

    4. Opt for Annual Payments: Selecting yearly premium payments instead of monthly can help you avoid missing regular payments.

    Life Insurance Exclusions

    Life insurance policies may have different exclusions, but several common exclusions apply to most policies. Key exclusions include:

    1. Criminal Activities: Death resulting from engaging in criminal or unlawful activities.

    2. Man-Made Disasters: Death caused by man-made events such as war, riots, or civil disturbances.

    3. Suicide or Self-Inflicted Injuries: Death due to suicide or any self-inflicted injuries.

    4. High-Risk Activities: Death occurring while participating in adventure sports or dangerous activities, such as bungee jumping or rock climbing.

    5. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Death from HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

    6. Illegal Intoxicants: Death or injury caused by the use of illegal drugs or intoxicants.

    7. Waiting Period: Death occurring during the waiting period is typically not covered by life insurance policies.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Life Insurance

    How Much Life Insurance Coverage Does a Person Need?

    The required amount of life insurance coverage varies based on income, expenses, and liabilities. Evaluating these factors helps determine the appropriate coverage amount for individual needs.

    What is the Average Life Insurance Cost Per Month?

    The average monthly cost of life insurance is influenced by factors such as policy type, age, health, and the sum assured. Typically, term plans are more affordable compared to traditional or unit-linked plans.

    Why is Term Life Insurance Better Than Whole Life Insurance for Some People?

    Term life insurance provides high coverage at lower premium rates, making it a cost-effective choice for those seeking protection for a specific period. In contrast, whole life insurance combines death benefits with savings, resulting in higher costs.

    How Do Term Insurance Policies Offer Higher Life Coverage Than Other Types?

    Term insurance premiums are primarily allocated to create life coverage, whereas other plans use part of the premium for various purposes, making term insurance more affordable and focused on pure protection.

    When Does Life Insurance Coverage Begin?

    Life insurance coverage starts on the Risk Commencement date, which is when the insurer approves your insurance application.

    What are the Major Differences Between a Non-Participating Policy and a Participating One?

    Non-participating policies do not allow policyholders to share in the company’s profits, while participating policies enable profit-sharing through dividends, which may vary based on investment returns.

    What Happens if My Policy is Canceled During the Free-Look Period?

    During the free-look period, you can cancel your policy at no cost. After this period, canceling the policy may incur a small fee.

    Are Life Insurance Payouts Taxable?

    According to Section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, sums assured and bonuses received are generally tax-free, with some exceptions.

    Is it Better to Take a Single Cover Policy or a Joint Life Insurance Policy?

    Single cover policies provide separate coverage for individuals, while joint policies cover both under one policy. Joint policies yield a single payout, whereas two single policies provide separate payouts.

    When Should You Buy Life Insurance?

    It’s advisable to purchase life insurance in your late 20s or early 30s, though timing may vary based on the number of dependents and family health history.

    Do Life Insurance Premiums Increase with Age?

    Whole life premiums remain fixed, while term insurance premiums may rise if renewed after the initial term, as age is considered a risk factor.

    What is a Graded Premium Life Insurance Policy?

    Graded life insurance features lower initial premiums that increase yearly for a specified period before becoming fixed for the remainder of the policy term.

    What is the ‘Surrender Value’ of a Policy?

    The surrender value is the amount refunded if the policy is canceled and is based on premiums paid and the duration of the policy. Some insurers offer loans against policies using the surrender value as collateral.

    What is a Policy's ‘Free-Look Period’?

    The free-look period allows policyholders to cancel within the first 15 days of purchase for a refund. Cancellation during this period is free, but a small fee may apply afterward.

    What are Riders?

    Riders are additional benefits added to a policy, such as critical illness coverage, available for an extra premium.

    How Can I Verify the Authorization of the Agent Selling Me the Life Insurance Policy?

    You can verify the agent’s credentials by checking their IRDA authorization card.

    Can I Get Life Insurance for My Parents?

    Yes, you can purchase life insurance for your parents, depending on their age and health. There are policies specifically designed for older individuals or senior citizens.

    What is a Money Back Plan?

    A Money Back Plan combines insurance and investment, offering periodic returns during the policy term and a lump sum at the end of the term.