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Guide

How to choose a life insurance term length

Term length should match how long people actually depend on your income, not a round number.

By the InsuranU team Updated July 20263 min read

The right term length is the one that covers U for exactly as long as someone depends on your income.

Match it to your obligations

  • Until your youngest child turns 18 or finishes college
  • Until your mortgage is paid off
  • Until you expect to be financially independent of income replacement

Common lengths

10, 20 and 30-year terms are the most widely available, and 20 years is a common fit for parents with a mortgage and young kids.

When a shorter term makes sense

If U only need coverage for a specific, shorter-term debt or obligation, a shorter term keeps the premium lower.

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Common questions

What happens if I outlive my term?

Coverage ends. Some policies allow renewal or conversion, usually at a higher rate.

Can I have more than one term policy?

Yes. Some people layer shorter and longer terms to match different obligations, a strategy called laddering.

U deserve cover that fits

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