Best Term Insurance For Senior Citizens in 2023

Editorial Note: This content has been independently collected by the Forbes Advisor team and is offered on a non-advised basis. This content is not part of the comparison service provided by RunPath Regulatory Services. Forbes Advisor may earn a commission on sales made from partner links on this page, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.

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.

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Aegon Life iTerm Plan

Aegon Life iTerm Plan
4.5
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Term Plans

Aegon Life iTerm Plan

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 65 years

Maturity Age

75 years

Aegon Life iTerm Plan

Term Plans

Aegon Life iTerm Plan

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 65 years

Maturity Age

75 years

Why We Picked It

The Aegon Life iTerm Plan is a non-linked, non-participating term insurance plan for citizens aged 18 to 65. It offers financial security to senior citizens by providing a lump sum to their nominee in the event of their untimely death within the policy term. The plan provides a base payment insured of INR 25 lakh and above.

The policy period might range from 5 to 40 years, depending on the demands and budget of the older citizen. It has a very simple online application process and no medical exams are required up to the age of 70, making it very easy for older persons to obtain this protection. The Aegon Life iTerm Plan ensures that senior individuals can leave appropriate assets for their family’s future requirements even after they pass away.

Key Features

  • Life insurance coverage for a specified term of 5 to 40 years.
  • In the event of the insured person’s untimely death during the policy term, the sum promised is paid to the nominee.
  • Customers can save consistently by making monthly or annual premium payments.
  • A portion of each premium is allocated to life insurance, with the remainder invested in funds of the customer’s choosing.
  • Cash values accumulate over the policy term as premium amounts are invested.
  • Section 80D of the Income Tax Act of 1961 may provide tax benefits to the insured.
  • When a terminal illness is diagnosed, a 25% share of the sum assured might be paid in advance.
  • This policy may be accompanied by four riders. These riders come with their own set of advantages.

Additional Riders

  • Aegon Life AD Rider – Provides additional death benefit up to 100% of base sum assured in case of accidental death of the insured.
  • Aegon Life WOP Rider on CI – Waives all future premiums if insured is diagnosed with any of the 35 critical illnesses.
  • Aegon Life iCI Rider – Pays lump sum amount if insured is diagnosed with one of the listed 36 critical illnesses.
  • Aegon Life Women CI Rider – Specific rider for women providing lump sum payment if diagnosed with illnesses like breast cancer, cervical cancer etc.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Entry Age: Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 65 years
  • Maturity Age: 75 years
  • Policy Term: 5 to 40 years
  • Premium Paying Frequency: Yearly, Quarterly and Monthly
  • Sum Assured: INR 25 lakh and above
Pros & Cons
  • Aegon Life iTerm Plan offers a wide range of policy terms to choose from, ranging from 5 to 70 years
  • Additional riders enhance financial security against critical illnesses and accidents
  • High claim settlement ratio of 99.37% for the financial year 2022-23
  • Cash value can be utilized or used to extend coverage at end of term
  • Online policy servicing for easy fund management and transactions
  • Tax benefits available as per applicable laws
  • The Aegon Life iTerm Plan does not provide many customization choices, such as the ability to gradually raise coverage or adjust the claim payout

Aviva Life Shield Platinum Term Insurance

Aviva Life Shield Platinum Term Insurance
4.5
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Term Plans

Aviva Life Shield Platinum Term Insurance

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years

Maturity Age

Minimum – 28 Years, Maximum – 75 years

Aviva Life Shield Platinum Term Insurance

Term Plans

Aviva Life Shield Platinum Term Insurance

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years

Maturity Age

Minimum – 28 Years, Maximum – 75 years

Why We Picked It

When it comes to term life insurance, one option is Aviva Life Shield Platinum Term Insurance. If the insured were to die during the policy’s term, the family would be protected financially. The plan provides coverage for 10, 15, 20, or 30 years with a high sum assured of up to INR 50 lakh and above. It gives tax-free death benefits and the option to increase the sum assured at any time without undergoing any extra exams. When compared to other term plans on the market, the premiums are rather inexpensive.

The plan’s flexibility is enhanced by the availability of optional riders, such as an accidental death benefit rider, a critical illness rider, etc. Affordable and extensive life insurance protection can be found with Aviva Life Shield Platinum Term Insurance.

Key Features

  • Flexibility: Policyholders can choose from three different payout options in the event of the life insured’s demise: Life Protection, Income Replacement, and Loan Protection.
  • Policyholders can also choose to take a combination of these payout options.
  • Affordability: The plan offers competitive premiums, especially for non-smokers and those in good health.
  • High sum assured: The plan offers a high sum assured, with no upper limit.
  • Long policy term: The plan offers a long policy term of up to 70 years.
  • Riders: The plan offers a variety of riders, such as accidental death benefit, critical illness benefit, and waiver of premium rider, to provide additional protection.
  • Tax benefits: Premiums paid for Aviva LifeShield Platinum are eligible for tax deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Covers

  • Life Protection

Life protection is the primary benefit of term insurance. In the event of the policyholder’s death, the life insured’s nominee receives a lump sum payout. This payout can be used to meet the nominee’s financial needs, such as paying off debts, covering funeral expenses, and providing for the family’s future.

  • Income Replacement

Income replacement is a feature that is offered by some term insurance plans. This feature provides the nominee with a regular monthly income for a specified period of time in the event of the policyholder’s death. This income can help the nominee to maintain their standard of living and meet their financial obligations.

  • Loan Protection

Loan protection is a feature that is offered by some term insurance plans. This feature pays off the outstanding loan amount in the event of the policyholder’s death. This can help to protect the family from financial hardship in the event of the policyholder’s untimely demise.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Entry Age: Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years
  • Maturity Age: Minimum – 28 Years, Maximum – 75 years
  • Policy Term: 10 to 40 years
  • Premium Paying Frequency: Yearly, Quarterly and Monthly
  • Sum Assured: INR 50 lakh and above
Pros & Cons
  • High life coverage of up to INR 50 lakh at affordable premium rates
  • Flexibility to increase sum assured without medical tests during the term
  • Option of multiple term periods from 10 to 40 years
  • Additional riders enhance the coverage
  • Tax-free payment of sum assured to the nominee
  • Lifelong renewal without medical tests
  • Easy online purchase and paperless documentation
  • No cash benefits available during the policy term

Edelweiss Tokio Life Protection Plan

Edelweiss Tokio Life Protection Plan
4.4
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Term Plans

Edelweiss Tokio Life Protection Plan

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years

Maturity Age

Minimum – 28 Years, Maximum – 70 years

Edelweiss Tokio Life Protection Plan

Term Plans

Edelweiss Tokio Life Protection Plan

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years

Maturity Age

Minimum – 28 Years, Maximum – 70 years

Why We Picked It

Edelweiss Tokio Life Protection Plan for Senior Citizens is a term insurance policy that provides financial protection to the policyholder’s loved ones in the event of their untimely death. The plan is available to those between the ages of 50 and 80, and it includes a variety of sum assured alternatives. The plan provides a baseline payment assured starting at INR 15 lakh. Premiums can be paid annually, semi-annually, quarterly, or monthly, according to the customer’s preference. The policy duration is between 5 and 15 years.

If the policyholder dies during the policy period, the nominee/beneficiary receives the entire basic sum assured. If death occurs as a result of an accident, the plan provides an additional payout of 25% of the basic sum assured.

Senior citizens have very low premiums because rates do not rise with age. The plan offers long-term security at a moderate cost. It provides financial security for senior citizens’ families even after they retire. The concept is a basic yet efficient solution for senior folks’ protection needs.

Key Features

  • Sum assured is guaranteed regardless of market performance.
  • Premiums paid and benefits received are eligible for tax benefits under Section 80C and Section 10(10D) respectively as per applicable IT laws.
  • Premiums can be paid regularly (yearly/half-yearly/quarterly/monthly) or as a single premium as per the customer’s needs and budget.
  • Customers can enhance the coverage by adding optional riders like accidental death benefit rider, critical illness rider, etc. at a nominal extra cost.
  • Coverage can be increased over time by increasing the sum assured without any additional medical tests as per changing life stage needs.

Additional Riders

The Edelweiss Tokio Life Protection Plan for Senior Citizens includes the following riders:

  • Critical Illness Rider: This rider provides a lump sum payment if the policyholder is diagnosed with any of the plan’s 12 catastrophic illnesses. Cancer, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and multiple sclerosis are among the ailments.
  • Accidental Death Rider: If the policyholder dies in an accident, this rider pays out an additional sum assured.
  • Waiver of Premium Rider: If the insured becomes terminally sick or fully and permanently incapacitated, this rider waives all future premiums.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Entry Age: Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years
  • Maturity Age: Minimum – 28 Years, Maximum – 70 years
  • Policy Term: 10 to 30 years
  • Premium Paying Frequency: Yearly, Half-yearly, Quarterly and Monthly
  • Sum Assured: INR 15 lakh and above
Pros & Cons
  • Premiums are cost effective for the amount of coverage provided.
  • Wide range of coverage options available for different needs and budgets.
  • Additional riders can be added for extra coverage against critical illnesses.
  • Online purchase and paperless policy documentation makes the purchase and claims process simple.
  • If the insurance is surrendered before maturity, just the surrender value is paid, which may be less than the premiums paid.

Bharti Axa Life Flexi Term

Bharti Axa Life Flexi Term
4.3
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Term Plans

Bharti Axa Life Flexi Term

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years

Maturity Age

Maximum – 85 years

Bharti Axa Life Flexi Term

Term Plans

Bharti Axa Life Flexi Term

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years

Maturity Age

Maximum – 85 years

Why We Picked It

Bharti Axa Life Flexi Term is a non-linked non-participating term insurance plan that provides financial protection to senior citizens between 50-85 years of age. This plan offers a basic sum assured ranging from INR 5 lakh to INR 50 lakh for a policy term of 20, 25 or 30 years. It offers life cover at affordable premium rates for senior citizens to financially secure their family in case of their unfortunate demise. The premium rates are payable regularly during the policy term and the sum assured is paid to the nominee in case of the life assured’s unfortunate death during the policy term. This plan is a pure protection solution ideal for senior citizens who want to financially protect their family and dependents during their retirement years through affordable term insurance.

Key Features

  • Available to elderly individuals between the ages of 50 and 85.
  • Policy terms range from 20 to 30 years.
  • Options for sum assured range from INR 5 lakh to INR 50 lakh.
  • Affordably priced premiums based on the entry age and policy duration selected.
  • In the event of the tragic death of the life assured during the policy term, life insurance for the full sum promised is provided.
  • If the policyholder lives to maturity, he or she will receive 100% of the Sum Assured, as well as any Terminal and Accrued Reversionary bonuses.
  • Premium payments can be made yearly, half-yearly, quarterly, or monthly, depending on the customer’s preference.
  • Throughout the policy duration, premium rates stay consistent.
  • There is no need for a medical exam when purchasing the policy.
  • Tax advantages on premiums paid and sum insured obtained in accordance with applicable IT regulations.
  • Simple online purchasing and paperless documentation.
  • In the event of a claim due to death, the nominee receives the whole sum insured.
  • Provides financial security to family members and dependents during retirement.

Additional Riders

  • Bharti AXA Life Hospital Cash Rider: If policyholders choose this rider, they will receive a specified amount of benefit for each day of hospitalization. It also assures that a predetermined sum is paid if the policyholder is admitted to an Intensive Care Unit. In addition, a lump sum payment is offered in the event of surgery.
  • Bharti AXA Premium Waiver Rider: In the event of total permanent disability, serious illness, or death, Bharti AXA Life will waive and pay 100% of all future premiums under the base insurance, depending on the option.
  • Bharti AXA Life Accidental Death Benefit Rider: This regular pay and non-linked rider guarantees 100% of the Sum Assured in the event of the policyholder’s death due to an accident for the duration of the policy.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Entry Age: Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years
  • Maturity Age: Maximum – 85 years
  • Policy Term: 20, 25 & 30 years
  • Premium Paying Frequency: Yearly, Half-yearly, Quarterly and Monthly
  • Sum Assured: INR 5 to INR 50 lakh
Pros & Cons
  • Provides life insurance coverage even during retirement years between 50-80 years of age.
  • Affordable premium rates compared to individual plans for senior citizens.
  • Multiple policy terms and premium payment options available.
  • Sum assured up to INR 50 lakh can financially protect the family.
  • No medical tests required, so easy to purchase online.
  • Tax benefits available as per IT laws.
  • Underwriting is strict and certain pre-existing illnesses may not be covered.

Canara HSBC OBC eSmart Term Plan

Canara HSBC OBC eSmart Term Plan
4.1
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Term Plans

Canara HSBC OBC eSmart Term Plan

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 70 years

Maturity Age

Maximum – 75 years

Canara HSBC OBC eSmart Term Plan

Term Plans

Canara HSBC OBC eSmart Term Plan

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 70 years

Maturity Age

Maximum – 75 years

Why We Picked It

The Canara HSBC OBC eSmart Term Plan is a non-linked, non-participating term insurance plan that provides financial security to your family in the event of your untimely death. This plan offers your nominee with a lump sum payout that can be utilized to repay loans or satisfy other financial commitments.

This plan’s core characteristics include variable policy durations ranging from 5 to 40 years, life insurance ranging from INR 25 lakh and above depending on your age, and consistent premiums throughout the policy term. If the life cover is less than INR 50 lakh, no medical examinations are necessary. You can also enhance your life insurance coverage during the term without having to undergo any further medical examinations.

In the event of a catastrophic disease, such as cancer or a heart attack, the plan offers an advance payout of 50% of the sum assured. Because there are no yearly dividends, premiums are less expensive than in standard plans.

Key Features

  • Flexible insurance lengths ranging from 5 to 40 years, depending on your needs.
  • Life insurance policies start at INR 25 lakh and go up from there, depending on your age.
  • Premiums are fixed for the duration of the policy. If the life cover is less than INR 50 lakh, no medicals are necessary.
  • Option to enhance life insurance coverage during the term without undergoing any further medical testing.
  • In the event of a catastrophic disease such as cancer or a heart attack, 50% of the sum insured is paid as an advance.
  • Premiums are less expensive than typical plans with no yearly returns.
  • After three years of premium payments, the policy gains a surrender value.
  • Provides financial security for the family at a low cost and with flexibility.
  • In the event of the policyholder’s untimely death, the nominee receives the whole sum assured.
  • The benefit might be used to repay loans or fulfill other family financial responsibilities.
  • Quick claim settlement and no-questions-asked compensation.

Additional Riders

  • Accidental Death Benefit (ADB) Rider: This rider provides an additional sum assured in the event of the life insured’s death due to an accident.
  • Accidental Total and Permanent Disability Benefit (ATPD) Rider: This rider provides a waiver of all future premiums and an additional sum assured in the event of the life insured becoming totally and permanently disabled due to an accident.
  • Critical Illness Benefit (CI) Rider: This rider provides a lump sum payout in the event of the life insured being diagnosed with a critical illness, such as cancer, heart attack, or stroke.
  • Child Support Benefit (CSB) Rider: This rider provides a monthly income to the life insured’s children in the event of the life insured’s death before the children reach a certain age.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Entry Age: Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 70 years
  • Maturity Age: Maximum – 75 years
  • Policy Term: 5 to 40 years
  • Premium Paying Frequency: Yearly, Half-yearly, Quarterly and Monthly
  • Sum Assured: INR 25 lakh and above
Pros & Cons
  • Provides life-long financial protection for families at affordable premiums.
  • Flexible policy terms from 5-40 years as per customer’s needs.
  • Higher sum assured of up to INR 1 crore for greater coverage.
  • No medical tests required for covers up to INR 25 lakh.
  • Option to increase cover without medical tests during policy term.
  • Advance payout of 50% sum assured for critical illnesses.
  • Acquires surrender value after 3 years of unclaimed benefit.
  • Longer policy durations and a higher sum assured warrant higher premiums.

Max Life Smart Secure Plus

Max Life Smart Secure Plus
4.0
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Term Plans

Max Life Smart Secure Plus

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 65 years

Maturity Age

Maximum – 85 years

Max Life Smart Secure Plus
Apply Now

On Max Life Insurance's website

Term Plans

Max Life Smart Secure Plus

Entry Age

Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 65 years

Maturity Age

Maximum – 85 years

Why We Picked It

Max Life Smart Secure Plus is an individual, pure-risk premium, non-linked, non-participating, age-60-80-specific life insurance policy. In the event of your untimely death within the insurance period, your loved ones will be protected financially.

Depending on the customer’s preference, premiums can be paid annually, semiannually, quarterly, or monthly, and the plan provides life insurance coverage of up to INR 50 lakh. It provides the nominee with a death benefit regardless of the cause of death, and it also reimburses the policyholder for the full amount of premiums paid. Policyholders are safeguarded for the whole 10, 15, 20, or 30-year duration of their coverage.

Key Features

  • After paying premiums for ten years, policyholders can choose a one- or two-year premium break. During the interval, life insurance remains in effect, but supplementary benefits are suspended. Premiums can be resumed without any health concerns following the hiatus.
  • If no claims are filed, all premiums paid will be refunded at the end of the policy period. This ensures that the customer receives their insurance money back.
  • Customers can pay additional premiums during the insurance term to raise the total insured by 100%. Higher levels of protection are available for major life goals and events.
  • Customers can abandon the plan after 10 policy years and earn the higher of Guaranteed Surrender Value or Special abandon Value. Customers benefit from this flexibility if their protection requirements decrease.

Additional Covers

  • Terminal Illness Cover – In the event that the policyholder is diagnosed with a terminal disease, the policy will provide for his or her financial needs. After the medical certificate is verified, the insured will receive the full death benefit amount promised by the policy.
  • Death Benefit – The Max Life Smart Secure Plus Plan provides financial support to the policyholder’s family as a death benefit under the Increasing Life Cover or Life Cover option. The policyholder has the option of selecting the preferred variant.
  • Maturity Benefit – The insured will receive a maturity benefit if he or she outlives the policy’s term and opted for the return of premium while acquiring the plan. The insured might choose to receive a refund of all premiums paid at the end of the insurance period.
  • Accelerated Critical Illness – With Accelerated Critical Illness (ACI), upon diagnosis of one of 40 different types of defined critical diseases, the insured is immediately entitled to the entire insurance sum.
  • Accident Cover – If the insured person is killed in an accident, his or her family will get the sum insured in addition to the basic death benefit. The policyholder has the option of including accidental coverage in the term plan at any moment throughout the period for which premiums are being paid.
  • Joint Life Benefit – The joint life benefit provided by the Max Life Smart Secure Plus Plan will ensure that your spouse’s financial needs are taken care of in the event of your death.
  • Riders – In the event of your death, your spouse will receive a joint-life benefit from the riders included in the Max Life Smart Secure Plus Plan.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Entry Age: Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 65 years
  • Maturity Age: Maximum – 85 years
  • Policy Term: 10 to 67 years
  • Premium Paying Frequency: Yearly, Half-yearly, Quarterly and Monthly
  • Sum Assured: INR 50 lakh
Pros & Cons
  • Life covers up to INR 50 lakh suitable for senior citizens’ protection needs.
  • Affordable premium rates without any medical tests required up to age 65.
  • Premium payment options as per convenience – yearly, half-yearly, quarterly or monthly.
  • Guaranteed death benefit ensures financial security for the family.
  • Additional 100% premiums payback provides extra financial cushion.
  • Long policy terms of 10 to 67 years ensure coverage throughout retirement.
  • Flexibility of premium break and sum assured top up.
  • Maturity benefit of all premiums returned ensures the customer gets money back.
  • Claim settlement may take longer than with unit-linked plans.

Comparison of Best Term Insurance Plan for Senior Citizens (Comparison table)


Company Forbes Advisor India Rating Term Plans Entry Age Maturity Age Learn More
Aegon Life 4.5 Aegon Life iTerm Plan Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 65 years 75 years View More
Aviva 4.5 Aviva Life Shield Platinum Term Insurance Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years Minimum – 28 Years, Maximum – 75 years View More
Edelweiss Tokio Life 4.4 Edelweiss Tokio Life Protection Plan Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years Minimum – 28 Years, Maximum – 70 years View More
Bharti AXA Life 4.3 Bharti Axa Life Flexi Term Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 60 years Maximum – 85 years View More
Canara HSBC OBC 4.1 Canara HSBC OBC eSmart Term Plan Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 70 years Maximum – 75 years View More
Max Life Insurance 4.0 Max Life Smart Secure Plus Minimum – 18 years, Maximum – 65 years Maximum – 85 years View More

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.

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.

Forbes Advisor adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.

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How can you choose the best term insurance policy for seniors citizens?

  • Compare features like maximum entry age, sum assured options, premium rates, policy term limits across insurers.
  • Check for critical illness and waiver of premium benefits.
  • Consider the insurer’s claim settlement record and customer service reputation.
  • Choose a plan that best matches one’s budget, health condition and family’s protection needs.

Can senior citizens buy term insurance online?

What age groups are covered by Senior Citizen Term Insurance Plans?

Do senior citizen term insurance policies provide a regular income payout option?

Why are term plans for senior citizens typically more expensive than term plans for younger people?

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