Life insurance is a critical component of financial and estate planning, for those that want to leave a legacy for their surviving spouse and/or children. Death may come suddenly when not expected. Good financial and estate planning prepares for this unfortunate possibility well in advance.

Changing Needs for Life Insurance

The need for life insurance changes over the course of a person’s life. When younger, a person may choose a whole life insurance plan that builds up cash value over time. Or they may choose lower-cost term life insurance that does not build up cash value. Having a discussion about plans, life goals, and the need to take care of others, if you are no longer alive, is an important thing to do with your insurance agent at Cordell Insurance in Baton Rouge, LA.

Some people feel uncomfortable about contemplating their own demise. However, life insurance is meant to protect those left behind and gives the insured person great peace of mind when an adequate life insurance policy is in place. It is comforting to know that the kids and a significant other will have enough financial resources to continue on without suffering if something bad happens. This helps one feel confident and be without worry.

How much life insurance do you need?

The amount of life insurance needed depends on the current lifestyle and the number of years desired for financial support. For example, some calculate the number of funds needed to pay for the living expenses at the current lifestyle for the kids until they reach the age of 18 and then add the cost of them attending a college or a university. That is the amount that will take them to adulthood, which is the time that they should be able to take care of themselves.

Others who do not have children calculate the life expectancy of a surviving spouse and use this figure to make the estimate of the life insurance requirements to cover that period of time while providing enough funds for living expenses to sustain the current lifestyle.

Each person’s situation is slightly different. The best thing to do is to contact your agent at Cordell Insurance, serving Baton Rouge, LA, and the surrounding area, to discuss your personal circumstances.