Exploring the Best Affordable Life Insurance Coverage Options for Young Adults in India

Introduction

Life insurance is an essential financial tool that provides protection and peace of mind for individuals and their loved ones. Let’s dive into this blog to know affordable life insurance coverage options. While it may seem like a decision for older adults, young adults in India can also benefit from having life insurance coverage. In this blog, we will discuss the best affordable life insurance coverage options for young adults in India, addressing common questions such as whether a 25-year-old should have life insurance and if life insurance is a good investment for young adults. We will also explore what a 25-year life insurance policy entails and whether it is possible to make money from life insurance.

Should a 25-Year-Old Have Life Insurance?

Life insurance is not solely for older individuals. Even though young adults may not have the same financial responsibilities as older adults, there are still compelling reasons why a 25-year-old should consider having life insurance:

1. Protecting Loved Ones:

   • Even if you do not have a family of your own yet, life insurance can provide financial support for your parents, siblings, or other dependents in case of an untimely death.
   • It ensures that your loved ones are not burdened with funeral costs or other final expenses, which can average between ₹50,000 and ₹1,00,000.

2. Covering Debts:

   • Many young adults carry education loans, car loans, or credit card debt. Life insurance can ensure these debts are not passed on to your loved ones.
   • In some cases, private education loans may not be discharged upon death and could be transferred to a co-signer, often a parent.

3. Locking in Lower Premiums:

   • Life insurance premiums are generally lower when you are younger and healthier. By purchasing life insurance at 25, you can lock in a lower rate for the duration of the policy.
   • For example, a healthy 25-year-old male might pay around ₹1,500 per month for a 20-year, ₹50 lakh term life insurance policy, while a 45-year-old might pay over ₹5,000 for the same policy.

4. Future Insurability:

   • Obtaining life insurance at a young age guarantees that you have coverage even if you develop health issues later in life.
   • Many policies offer options to convert term insurance to permanent insurance without additional medical exams, ensuring lifelong coverage.

Is Life Insurance a Good Investment for Young Adults?

Life insurance can be seen as a long-term investment, but it is important to understand the different types of life insurance policies available and their purpose:

1. Term Life Insurance:

   • Provides coverage for a specific period (e.g., 10, 20, 30 years) and is generally the most affordable option.
   • It does not build cash value but offers significant coverage for a low premium, making it ideal for income replacement during peak earning years.
   • For example, a 25-year-old can get a 20-year term policy for ₹50 lakh coverage at approximately ₹1,500 per month.

2. Whole Life Insurance:

   • A permanent policy that covers you for your entire life.
   • It has higher premiums but builds cash value over time, which can be borrowed against or withdrawn.
   • Policies typically offer guaranteed returns on the cash value portion, providing a conservative savings component.

3. Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs):

   • Another form of permanent insurance with flexible premiums and the potential to build cash value.
   • It allows for adjustments in the coverage amount and premium payments, making it adaptable to changing financial circumstances.
   • The cash value grows based on the investment performance of the chosen fund options.

4. Benefits of Life Insurance as an Investment:

   • Building Cash Value: Permanent policies accumulate cash value that can grow over time, acting as a savings vehicle.
   • Tax Advantages: The cash value grows tax-deferred, and policy loans are typically tax-free.
   • Future Financial Flexibility: You can access the cash value through loans or withdrawals, providing a financial resource for emergencies or opportunities.

What is a 25-Year Life Insurance Policy?

A 25-year life insurance policy refers to a specific term length for a life insurance policy. Here are the details:

1. Duration:

   • The policy provides coverage for 25 years. If the insured passes away within this period, the beneficiaries receive the death benefit.
   • If the insured outlives the policy, no benefit is paid out, unless it’s a return of premium policy which returns the premiums paid if no claim is made.

2. Coverage Options:

   • Typically, term life insurance policies offer various coverage amounts based on your financial needs and goals.
   • Coverage can range from ₹10 lakh to several crores, depending on what is needed to replace income, pay off debts, or cover other expenses.

3. Considerations for Young Adults:

   • For young adults, a 25-year policy can be advantageous as it covers a significant period, often encompassing major life milestones like marriage, children, and home ownership.
   • It provides financial security during the years when financial responsibilities and obligations are at their peak.

4. Advantages:

   • Affordability:  Term policies are generally more affordable compared to permanent policies.
   • Simplicity:  They are straightforward with no investment component, making them easy to understand and manage.

5. Potential Drawbacks:

   • No Cash Value:  Unlike permanent policies, term policies do not accumulate cash value.
   • Renewal Costs:  If you need coverage beyond the term, premiums for a new policy will be based on your age and health at that time, which can be significantly higher.

Can You Make Money from Life Insurance?

While life insurance primarily serves as a financial safety net, certain types of policies offer the potential to accumulate cash value over time. Here’s how you can potentially make money from life insurance:

1. Whole Life Insurance:

   • Builds cash value through guaranteed returns. Policyholders can borrow against this cash value or even surrender the policy for its cash value.
   • Dividends from some whole life policies can be used to increase the death benefit or reduce premiums.

2. Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs):

   • Offers flexible premiums and the potential for cash value growth based on market performance.
   • ULIPs link the cash value growth to a stock market index or fund performance, offering higher growth potential.

3. Endowment Policies:

   • Combines life coverage with savings. A lump sum is paid out either on maturity or on death. These plans offer a guaranteed sum assured along with bonuses.

4. Factors to Consider:

   • Fees and Charges: Permanent policies often have higher fees and administrative costs compared to term policies.
   • Surrender Charges: Early withdrawal of cash value can incur surrender charges, reducing the amount received.
   • Investment Performance: The growth of cash value in ULIPs depends on market performance, introducing an element of risk.

For more detailed information on how life insurance can be a financial tool for young adults in India, visit Policybazaar’s guide on life insurance.

Know more about insurance: HERE

Conclusion

Life insurance is not just for older adults; young adults can also benefit from having life insurance coverage. By exploring the best affordable life insurance coverage options, we have addressed common questions and concerns regarding life insurance for young adults in India. Whether it’s protecting loved ones, building cash value, or securing financial stability, life insurance can be a valuable investment for young adults. It is important to carefully consider your individual needs and financial goals when choosing the right life insurance coverage option.

Investing in life insurance at a young age can provide significant benefits and peace of mind, ensuring you and your loved ones are protected no matter what the future holds. By understanding the different types of policies and their benefits, young adults can make informed decisions that align with their long-term financial objectives.