Life insurance, explained in plain English.

Term life insurance covers you for a set period, such as 10, 20, or 30 years. It usually costs the least for the amount of coverage, and it pays a death benefit only if you pass away during that period. Whole life insurance is designed to last your entire life as long as premiums are paid, and it builds cash value over time. It costs more than term for the same death benefit. Many families use term for big, temporary needs like a mortgage and raising kids, and add permanent coverage when they want something that never expires.

A common starting point is 10 to 15 times your annual income, then adjusted for your situation. Add up what your family would need to cover: the mortgage and other debts, daily living expenses, your children's future costs like college, and final expenses. Then subtract what you already have, such as savings and existing coverage. The right number is specific to your household, and we can work through it together in a short conversation.

Usually not on its own. Employer coverage is often a small multiple of your salary, and it generally ends when you leave the job. Coverage you own personally stays with you if you change employers or your health changes. Group coverage is a good start, and many people add an individual policy to fill the gap.

Price depends on your age, health, tobacco use, the amount of coverage, the type of policy, and the carrier. Two people the same age can get very different quotes. That is why a real quote based on your actual details is the only number worth trusting, and why comparing more than one carrier matters.