Sir, I am 37 years old. I plan to take a term life insurance policy of 2 cr by paying monthly premiums till the age of 60. I am only looking at policies which return my premium in case I am alive at 60 years of age. Could you please suggest the best policies in this category in terms of least monthly premiums, percentage of claims settled and survival benefit.

Ans: One cannot recommend a specific term insurance plan or company as it depends on various factors like your health condition, lifestyle habits (smoking/drinking), income, budget, and family situation. However, here’s a guide on how to choose the best term plan.

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a term insurance plan:

• Sum assured: This is the amount your beneficiary will receive in case of your death during the policy term. Choose a sum assured that is sufficient to cover your outstanding debts, living expenses for your family, and future financial goals of your dependents.
• Policy term: This is the duration for which the life cover is valid. Since you are 30 and looking for a 40-year term, you have a wide range of options to choose from.
• Premium amount: This is the amount you pay annually or monthly to maintain the policy. Generally, younger individuals have lower premiums compared to older individuals.
• Riders: These are additional benefits that can be attached to your base plan, like accidental death benefit, critical illness cover, and waiver of premium rider. Choose riders that suit your specific needs and budget.
• Claim settlement ratio: This ratio indicates the percentage of claims settled by the insurance company. Opt for a company with a high claim settlement ratio.

Popular insurance companies often change, and new products may be introduced, so it's essential to check the latest offerings. Additionally, individual factors such as your health, lifestyle, and occupation can affect premium rates. Make sure to disclose all relevant information accurately to get the most suitable coverage.

Remember, it's crucial to disclose all your health conditions and lifestyle habits accurately while applying for term insurance. Withholding information can lead to claim rejection in the future.

Remember that buying ‘best’ term insurance plan is subjective and depends on your specific needs and circumstances.

Ans: opting for a pure term life insurance policy is generally advisable over a return of premium (ROP) policy. ROP policies tend to have higher premiums, as they offer to return premiums at the end of the term if the policyholder survives. However, this feature often comes at the cost of higher premiums, making it less cost-effective in the long run.

With pure term insurance, you pay lower premiums for the same coverage amount, ensuring that your family receives a substantial sum assured in case of your unfortunate demise. It's a straightforward and transparent form of protection without any investment component or frills attached.

When selecting an insurance provider, prioritize companies with a strong track record of claim settlement and customer service. Look for insurers with high claim settlement ratios and positive reviews from policyholders.

Remember, the primary purpose of life insurance is to provide financial protection to your loved ones in your absence. By opting for a pure term policy, you ensure that your family receives the necessary financial support without any unnecessary frills or complexities.

Ans: Term life insurance is designed to provide financial protection for your loved ones in case of your untimely demise. Choosing between a policy with no returns and one with premium returns depends on your financial goals. A policy without returns typically offers higher coverage at lower premiums, focusing solely on protection. On the other hand, a policy with premium returns provides a safety net by returning premiums at maturity. For a 37-year-old with a 27 LPA CTC and a family dependent on you, a sum insured that covers at least 10-15 times your annual income would be ideal. When selecting an insurer, prioritize companies known for competitive premiums and efficient claims settlement.

Ans: Hello;

You may check zero cost term insurance plans offered by some life insurance companies such as HDFC life.

This allows you to preclose your term policy before maturity if your financial responsibilities are taken care of, and get the refund of premiums paid except taxes and some charges.

Almost all life insurance companies offer Term Plan with Return of Premium(TROP). In this the insurer refunds all the premiums, except taxes, if you survive till maturity and policy is in force.

In a plain vanilla term plan you do not get anything back if you survive till maturity.

Life insurance is pure protection for policyholder's dependants in the
unfortunate event of his death.

Do not mix investment and insurance.

LIC, HDFC life, Kotak life insurance, ICICI Pru life insurance, SBI Life all offer good term plans.

You may buy plans by any of these or even other better offerings.

Please do your due diligence or seek help from an insurance advisor.

Best wishes;