Life insurance is a contract between a policyholder and an insurer that guarantees a sum of money (death benefit) to named beneficiaries upon the insured person's death, in exchange for regular premium payments. It provides a crucial financial safety net for dependents and helps meet long-term financial goals.
How Life Insurance Works
When you purchase a policy, the insurance company evaluates factors like your age, health, and lifestyle to determine your risk and set a premium. As long as you pay the scheduled premiums, the policy remains active.
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Death Benefit: The primary payout is the sum assured, a pre-agreed amount paid to your designated nominee(s) if you die during the policy term.
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Maturity Benefit: Some policies (not pure term plans) also pay a lump sum to the policyholder if they survive the entire policy duration.
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Claim Process: Upon the policyholder's death, the beneficiary files a claim with the insurer, submits required documents (e.g., death certificate, ID proof), and after verification, the insurer releases the benefit.
Key Benefits
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Financial Security for Dependents: Ensures that your family can maintain their standard of living, cover daily expenses, and achieve future goals like education or marriage in your absence.
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Debt Settlement: The payout can be used to clear outstanding debts such as mortgages, personal loans, and credit card balances, preventing the burden from falling on your loved ones.
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Wealth Creation & Savings: Certain types of life insurance plans, such as endowment or unit-linked plans (ULIPs), include an investment component that helps build wealth over time.
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Peace of Mind: Knowing that your family is financially protected brings significant emotional security and peace of mind.
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Tax Benefits: Premiums paid may be eligible for tax deductions, and the death benefit received is typically tax-free for beneficiaries, as per the prevailing tax laws.