Guide
Term vs. permanent life insurance
What each kind is for, what it costs, and why most families start with term.
Term life covers a specific period (10, 15, 20, 25 or 30 years) with a fixed monthly payment and a set death benefit. At term's end, coverage ceases or becomes far more expensive. It's the cheapest way to secure substantial protection during the critical family years.
Permanent life (whole life, universal life, variable universal life) lasts your entire life and includes a cash reserve that accumulates. Premiums are much steeper than term for the same death benefit; the cash account grows slowly at first. It fits those with indefinite needs: a forever dependent, estate planning, or business continuity.
How to choose
Start with your need, not the product. If a mortgage will be paid off, children become independent, or a loan matures—if the need has a defined end—a term policy expiring when the need does makes perfect sense.
What people in Citrus Heights often do
Many choose a 20 or 30-year term matched to actual obligations, revisited as life evolves. This approach keeps premiums affordable so you can buy enough coverage today. If you have a permanent need (an always-dependent child, estate taxes), we can explore permanent options too.