Best Term Insurance For Senior Citizens in 2023
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As people get older, it becomes more necessary to protect their loved ones financially in the event of their untimely death. Term insurance plans are a low-cost solution for seniors to provide that protection. However, finding the correct term plan for their needs might be difficult because most insurers have tougher eligibility standards for the aged.
Term insurance, known for its simplicity and efficacy, is a type of insurance that protects policyholders and their loved ones financially in the case of the policyholder’s death. Choosing the correct term insurance plan for senior citizens can be a game changer, providing peace of mind throughout their golden years.
Forbes Advisor India dug into the world of term insurance in this comprehensive guide to explore the best options accessible to older persons. We recognise that the insurance landscape is constantly changing, with new offerings and policy modifications. It is, hence, we’ve undertaken extensive research and analysis to provide you with an up-to-date list of the best term insurance policies targeted to older adults’ specific needs and preferences.
- Featured Partners
- Best Term Plan for Senior Citizens in 2023
- Aegon Life iTerm Plan
- Aviva Life Shield Platinum Term Insurance
- Edelweiss Tokio Life Protection Plan
- Bharti Axa Life Flexi Term
- Canara HSBC OBC eSmart Term Plan
- Max Life Smart Secure Plus
- Comparison of Best Term Insurance Plan for Senior Citizens (Comparison table)
- Why Should You Buy Term Insurance for Senior Citizens?
- Features of Term Life Insurance for Senior Citizens
- Benefits of Senior Citizen Term Insurance Plans
- Things to Consider While Purchasing Term Insurance for Senior Citizens
- Featured Partners
- Bottom Line
Featured Partners
1
Max Insurance
Price
2 Crore Term Plan Starting From INR 1046/Month
Income Tax Benefits
Upto INR 54,600
Additional Benefits
Covers 64 Criticall Illnesses, 20% Savings on Premiums for Women and Zero Additional Cost on Terminal Illness Coverage
Best Term Plan for Senior Citizens in 2023
Comparison of Best Term Insurance Plan for Senior Citizens (Comparison table)
Why Should You Buy Term Insurance for Senior Citizens?
Purchasing term insurance for senior citizens is a wise financial decision for various reasons. For starters, it acts as a financial safety net, paying out a lump sum to beneficiaries upon the death of the insured. This payment can be used to pay off debts, cover funeral expenses, and provide financial assistance to surviving family members.
Second, term insurance provides peace of mind by protecting loved ones from financial burdens left behind. This is especially important for senior folks, who may have fewer earning years ahead of them to generate additional income or savings.
Furthermore, term insurance can help reduce inheritance taxes, allowing for a more seamless transfer of assets to heirs. It can also help with medical expenditures or long-term care costs that may emerge during retirement.
Furthermore, as medical prices rise, term insurance can provide a buffer against unexpected healthcare bills. It ensures that seniors’ retirement savings will not be depleted in the event of a medical emergency.
Features of Term Life Insurance for Senior Citizens
Maximum Entry Age
The maximum entry age for term plans aimed at seniors is often between 60 and 70 years old. Some insurers may accept life assurance up to the age of 75. Based on one’s current age, this upper limit is a crucial consideration to consider.
Premium Rates
Premiums for senior citizen term plans are often higher than standard plans due to greater mortality rates at an elderly age. Premiums may be charged by insurers based on age, gender, and health condition. Premiums can be paid annually, semi-annually, or monthly, according to the policyholder’s preference.
Sum Assured
Most plans offer consumers to select a sum assured ranging from INR 5 to INR 50 lakh. Based on medical underwriting, a few insurers give bigger sums assured of up to INR 1-2 cr. The sum assured should be sufficient to cover dependents’ financial needs.
Policy Term
Senior citizen plans typically have a maximum policy duration of 10-15 years. There are also shorter durations of 5-10 years available. The policy term should be set based on the age at which protection is required.
Medical Tests
All applicants will be subjected to basic medical exams such as blood tests and ECGs. Those who already have health problems may need to undergo further testing and examinations. Pre-existing illnesses may also result in a higher premium via loading.
Waiver of Premium
Many policies provide a premium waiver benefit, which waives all future premiums if the life assured is diagnosed with one of the serious illnesses stated in the policy terms during the policy term. This provides cash assistance.
Claim Settlement
The majority of insurers settle death claims within 7 days of receiving the necessary papers. Some cases may take up to 30 days, depending on the circumstances. The claim settlement ratio is an important measure for insurers to consider.
Underwriting
Senior citizen policies are subject to stringent underwriting based on medical and family history. Nondisclosures may cause the application to be delayed or rejected. A medical exam by a doctor approved by the insurer may also be required.
Riders
Customers can increase their protection by paying a small fee to add riders for accidental or disability compensation. Daily hospital cash benefits are popular riders as well.
Benefits of Senior Citizen Term Insurance Plans
Financial Protection for Dependents
The principal advantage of purchasing a term plan is the provision of financial security for the policyholder’s dependents in the event that the policyholder passes away unexpectedly. This might provide peace of mind to older citizens’ spouses and children, who may be financially dependent on them at this point in their lives. The money from the insurance can assist dependents in maintaining their standard of living.
Tax Benefits
Under Section 80C, taxpayers who pay premiums for term insurance plans can deduct up to Rs. 1.5 lakh worth of those payments from their taxable income each year. The nominees or legal heirs do not have to pay taxes on the amount of the death benefit they get from the life insurance policy. Because of this, term plans are an affordable solution to secure the financial well-being of a family.
Higher Sum Assured at Low Cost
Term plans offer a considerably bigger sum assured in comparison to their premium outgo despite the fact that the insured person is an older person. This is because term plans provide coverage for a limited period of time. This offers the policyholder great financial protection without making a major dent in their financial resources.
Critical Illness Rider
The majority of plans include an optional critical illness rider that multiplies the sum assured anywhere from three to seven times if the life assured is diagnosed with a serious disease such as cancer or a heart attack. This guarantees that there will be sufficient finances for medical treatment.
Waiver of Premium
In the event that a serious illness is diagnosed, the plan’s premium waiver mechanism kicks in and cancels any and all remaining premium payments. This gives relief from financial strain during critical health events without reducing the level of coverage provided.
No Maturity Benefits
Term plans only provide life coverage, there are no maturity payouts; as a result, the premiums are far less expensive. Because of this, senior adults are able to utilize their money to fulfill other post-retirement demands, such as traveling.
Things to Consider While Purchasing Term Insurance for Senior Citizens
Purchasing term insurance for senior citizens requires careful consideration to ensure that the chosen policy meets their specific needs and financial goals. Here are essential factors to keep in mind when buying term insurance for seniors:
Age and Health
Age significantly impacts premium costs. Generally, the younger the senior citizen, the lower the premiums. Health also plays a crucial role, as pre-existing medical conditions can affect eligibility and premium rates. It’s essential to disclose all health information accurately.
Coverage Amount
Determine the coverage amount based on financial obligations, such as outstanding debts, funeral expenses, and ongoing living expenses. The goal is to ensure that beneficiaries have sufficient financial support.
Term Tenure
Choose a term length that aligns with retirement plans and financial goals. Consider how long you want the coverage to last, such as until a mortgage is paid off or until dependents are financially independent.
Budget
Evaluate your budget and select a premium payment plan that is manageable. Fixed premiums may be preferable, as they remain stable throughout the term.
Convertible or Renewable Options
Check if the policy offers the option to convert to permanent insurance or renew the term at the end of the initial term. This can be valuable if circumstances change or if health conditions make it challenging to secure a new policy later.
Living Benefits
Explore policies that offer living benefits or accelerated death benefits. This feature can provide financial relief in the event of a terminal illness diagnosis or certain medical conditions.
No Medical Exam
If health issues are a concern, consider policies that do not require a medical exam or have simplified underwriting processes. These can be more accessible for seniors with health conditions.
Financial Stability of the Insurer
Choose a reputable and financially stable insurance company. Research the insurer’s ratings and reviews to ensure they have a strong track record of honoring claims.
Policy Exclusions
Understand any policy exclusions or waiting periods for coverage to take effect. Some policies may have limitations during the initial years.
Beneficiary Designation
Carefully select and update beneficiaries to ensure that the intended individuals receive the death benefit. Be specific in designating beneficiaries to prevent potential disputes.
Featured Partners
Featured Partners
1
Max Insurance
Price
2 Crore Term Plan Starting From INR 1046/Month
Income Tax Benefits
Upto INR 54,600
Additional Benefits
Covers 64 Criticall Illnesses, 20% Savings on Premiums for Women and Zero Additional Cost on Terminal Illness Coverage
Bottom Line
As people age, their insurance needs evolve to focus more on risk protection rather than savings. Term plans tailored for senior citizens effectively address this changing priority. By choosing a suitable plan based on factors like maximum entry age, premium rates, sum assured and policy term, individuals can secure their family’s future even in their golden years.
While insurers conduct stringent underwriting for health risks, the benefits of critical illness and waiver of premium riders make coverage affordable for the insured’s dependents. An analysis of insurer claim settlement records can highlight the best options. Overall, term plans provide senior citizens with a simple yet effective solution to financially safeguard their loved ones in a cost-efficient manner.
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