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Is Term Insurance Better Than a Money Back Policy?

Is Term Insurance better than a Money Back Policy

January 31, 2024, Harpreet Puri, 11 Mins

Not many people know this, but 60% of Canadians are underinsured when it comes to Life Insurance. That’s right, a significant portion of the population may not have adequate financial protection for their loved ones. In today’s world where financial security is of utmost importance, the choice between different types of insurance policies becomes a very important thing to consider. So, let’s find out the answer to the question: Is Term Life Insurance Better than Money Back Insurance Policies in Canada? We’ll explore the facts, dissect the numbers, and uncover the key differences between these two insurance options to find the answer.

Let’s Find Out About Money Back Insurance Policy

A Money Back Insurance Policy, also known as a Money Back Term Life Insurance Policy, is a type of Life Insurance that combines protection and savings. Find out more in detail about it here. Here’s how it works:

  • Premium Payments: When you purchase a Money Back Insurance policy, you pay regular premiums for a specified term, which can vary depending on the policy’s terms and conditions.
  • Death Benefit: At the time of the policyholder’s death during the term, the beneficiary receives a death benefit, which is the sum assured. In the event of your unexpected death, this will protect your loved ones financially.
  • Survival Benefit: The unique feature of Money Back Insurance policies is the survival benefit. If the policyholder survives the policy term, they get a part of the sum assured at timely intervals throughout the term. These intervals can be yearly or at predefined intervals.

Pros of Money Back Insurance Policy

  • Financial Security: Money-back policies give your loved ones financial security in case you die by giving them both Life Insurance and a guaranteed payout.
  • Liquidity: The regular survival benefits can serve as a source of liquidity, helping you meet various financial goals or expenses during the policy term.
  • Maturity Benefit: In the case you outlive the policy term, you receive the remaining sum assured as a lump sum, providing a financial cushion for retirement or other long-term needs.

Let’s Find Out About Term Life Insurance Policy

Term Life Insurance, on the other hand, is a straightforward Life Insurance policy that provides coverage for a specified term. Find out more in detail about it here. Here’s how it works:

  • Premium Payments: As with money back policies, you pay regular premiums for the chosen term. However, Term Life Insurance does not offer any survival benefits or savings components.
  • Death Benefit: The death benefit, which is the sum assured, is given to the beneficiary if the policyholder dies during the insurance term. Term Life Insurance Policy provides pure financial protection and does not offer any maturity benefits.

Pros of Term Life Insurance Policies

  • Affordability: Term Life Insurance premiums compared to Money Back Insurance policies are lower making them a cost-effective choice for pure Life Insurance coverage.
  • High Coverage Amounts: You can choose a higher sum assured with Term Life Insurance, ensuring your loved ones are well-protected financially.
  • Simplicity: Term Life Insurance is easy to understand and does not involve complex survival benefits or savings components.

Find out why you should buyTerm Life Insurance here

Which One Is Better for You?

Aspect Term Life Insurance Money Back Life Insurance
Purpose Pure protection for a specified term. Combines protection and savings.
Premiums Lower premiums for higher coverage. Higher premiums due to the savings component.
Coverage Amount Fixed death benefit amount. Fixed death benefit amount.
Survival Benefits No survival benefits; and no payout if you outlive the term. Regular survival benefits are paid during the policy term.
Savings Component No savings or cash value component. Includes a savings component with cash value.
Maturity Benefit No maturity benefit; coverage ends at the term’s expiration. A lump sum maturity benefit is paid if the policyholder survives the term.
Affordability Affordable premiums for maximum coverage. Higher premiums due to added savings features.
Financial Goals Ideal for providing pure financial protection to beneficiaries. Suitable for individuals with financial goals who need periodic payouts.
Tax Implications The death benefit is generally tax-free in Canada. Tax implications may vary depending on the policy’s structure.
Flexibility Limited flexibility; no changes once the policy is in force. Some flexibility in adjusting premium payment terms and sum assured.
Complexity Simple and straightforward coverage. Includes complexities such as survival benefits and savings.
Suitable Candidates Those seeking maximum coverage within budget constraints. Individuals with a mix of insurance and savings goals.
Beneficiary Payout Lump sum death benefit paid to beneficiaries. Periodic survival benefits are paid to the policyholder during the term, with the remaining sum assured paid to beneficiaries at maturity or in the event of the policyholder’s death.

The choice between Money Back Insurance policies and Term Life Insurance depends on your financial goals and priorities. Let’s go deep into the specific scenarios where each type of insurance policy shines:

Choose Money Back Insurance Policy If:

Aspect Money Back Insurance Policy
Why Choose It? If you want a combination of Life Insurance and savings.
Benefits of Savings Component – Provides financial protection in case of untimely demise.
– Accumulates savings over the policy term.
Financial Goals Suitable for individuals with future financial goals such as:
– Funding a child’s education.
– Purchasing a home.
– Planning for retirement.
Periodic Payouts Offers regular survival benefits to policyholders during the term.
Flexibility in Financial Planning Helps meet specific financial goals by providing periodic payouts.
Examples of Use Useful for covering educational expenses or maintaining a lifestyle without depleting savings.
Premium Payments Generally comes with higher premium payments compared to Term Life Insurance.
Comfort with Premiums Suitable if you have a stable financial situation and can manage higher premiums.
Financial Evaluation It’s essential to assess your budget and ensure premium payments align with long-term financial capabilities.
Advice from Insurance Advisor Discuss your financial situation with a trusted insurance advisor to determine affordability.
  1. You want a combination of Life Insurance and savings.

    Money Back Insurance policies are designed for individuals who seek a dual benefit of financial protection and savings accumulation. These policies offer a unique blend of security and financial growth. With a Money back Term Life Insurance, you not only protect your family in case you die too soon, but you also save money over the term of the policy.

    This savings component can be beneficial if you have future financial goals, such as funding your child’s education, purchasing a home, or planning for your retirement. The regular survival benefits provided by money back policies can serve as a valuable source of liquidity to meet these milestones.

  2. You need periodic payouts to meet financial goals.

    One of the main advantages of Money Back Insurance policies is their ability to provide periodic payouts, also known as survival benefits. These payouts can be similar to your specific financial goals and can be especially helpful during different life stages.

    For example, if you aim to cover your child’s educational expenses every few years or want to take a family vacation without depleting your savings, the survival benefits from a money back policy can be a reliable source of income precisely when you need it.

  3. You are comfortable with higher premium payments.

    Money Back Insurance policies generally come with higher premium payments compared to Term Life Insurance. This is because they offer both Life Insurance coverage and a savings component. If you have a stable financial situation and can comfortably manage the higher premiums, a money back policy may be the right choice for you.

    However, assessing your budget and ensuring that the premium payments are the same as your financial capabilities in the long term is essential. Discussing your financial situation with a trusted insurance advisor can guide you in figuring out if you can comfortably afford a Money Back Insurance policy or not.

Choose Term Insurance If:

– Prioritize affordability for maximum coverage.

Aspect Term Life Insurance
Why Choose It? – Prioritize affordability for maximum coverage.
– Primary goal is to provide financial protection for your family.
– Do not require survival benefits or savings components.
Benefits of Savings Component No savings component.
Financial Goals Ideal for individuals looking for cost-effective maximum coverage.
Suitable for those focused on providing pure financial protection.
A simpler option for individuals without specific savings goals.
Periodic Payouts No periodic payouts; only a death benefit.
Flexibility in Financial Planning Limited flexibility; straightforward coverage.
Examples of Use – Providing financial security to your family.
– Covering debts and financial responsibilities.
– Ensuring beneficiaries receive a lump sum.
Premium Payments Lower premiums for affordable coverage.
Comfort with Premiums Ideal for those with a limited budget.
Suitable for individuals seeking cost-effective coverage.
Financial Evaluation Offers a simple and clear financial solution.
Provides straightforward protection.
Advice from Insurance Advisor Consult with an advisor to determine the appropriate coverage.
  1. You prioritize affordability for maximum coverage.

    If your primary concern is to secure maximum coverage at an affordable cost, Term Insurance is an excellent choice. Term Insurance policies typically come with lower premiums compared to money back policies because they focus solely on providing Life Insurance coverage without the added savings component.

    This affordability makes it possible for you to allocate your budget effectively, ensuring that your family receives an adequate death benefit in case of your unexpected passing. Term Insurance can be a desirable option for those looking to maximize their coverage within a limited budget.

  2. Your primary goal is to provide financial protection for your family.

    Term Insurance is a very simple and pure form of Life Insurance that provides financial protection for your family at the time of your demise. It doesn’t involve the complexities of savings or survival benefits. If your primary goal is to make sure that your loved ones are financially safe in your absence, Term Insurance is the ideal choice.

    By opting for Term Insurance, you can rest assured that your beneficiaries will get the full sum assured as a tax-free lump sum, offering them the financial support they need during a difficult time.

  3. You do not require survival benefits or savings components.

    Let’s say you already have other ways to save or spend money to reach your long-term financial goals. In this case, you may not need the extra savings that Money Back Life Insurance policies offer. In that case, Term Insurance simplifies your insurance needs. With Term Insurance, you receive straightforward coverage without the complexity of managing savings and survival benefits.

    Hence, the decision between Money Back Insurance policies and Term Insurance hinges on your unique financial situation, goals, and preferences. Carefully evaluating your priorities and discussing with a reputable insurance brokerage in Canada, can help you make the right choice.

    Regardless of the policy you choose, having Life Insurance is an essential step to take toward securing your family’s financial future. It’s a responsible decision that offers mental peace and makes sure that the ones you love are protected no matter what life may bring.

    Find out if you get money back from term life insurance here

The End

In Canada, both Money Back Life Insurance policies and term policy have its own benefits to offer. Your choice should be as per your financial objectives, budget, and long-term planning. It’s very important to consult with a reputable insurance brokerage in Canada to help you make the right decision based on your individual needs.

Remember, the best insurance policy is one that meets your unique requirements and provides mental peace at the same time.

FAQ’s

No, Term Life Insurance, will not give any money back if you outlive the policy term. It’s pure protection coverage that pays out only if you pass away during the policy term. If you survive the term, there is no payout.

The primary difference is that Term Life Insurance provides pure Life Insurance coverage for a specified term without any savings or survival benefits, whereas Money Back Insurance policies combine Life Insurance with a savings component, offering periodic payouts (survival benefits) during the policy term.

It depends on your interests and financial goals. If you want Life Insurance and savings at the same time, have clear financial goals that can be met with regular payouts, and don’t mind paying higher premiums, Money Back Insurance might be a good choice. If affordability and maximum coverage are your main concerns and you primarily want to provide financial protection for your family, term life policy is a better choice.

Yes, you can often switch between insurance policies, but it depends on your insurance provider and the terms of your existing policy. Keep in mind that such switches may involve changes in premiums, coverage, and policy terms. It’s essential to consult with your insurance advisor before making any changes to ensure they suit your current financial needs.

Generally, yes. Money Back Insurance policies tend to have higher premium payments because they offer both Life Insurance coverage and savings components. Term Life Insurance plans, on the other hand, are known for their affordability, as they focus solely on providing Life Insurance coverage without additional features.

Yes, you can use the survival benefits from a money back policy for various purposes, such as education expenses, vacations, or other financial goals. The flexibility of these payouts allows you to tailor them to your specific needs throughout the policy term.

The death benefit from a Life Insurance policy is generally not taxable in Canada. However, for the savings component (the survival benefits), whether they are taxable or not can depend on several factors, including the specific terms of your policy and how the payouts are structured. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional for personalized guidance.

The above information is only meant to be informative. It comes from Canadian LIC's own opinions, which can change at any time. This material is not meant to be financial or legal advice, and it should not be interpreted as such. If someone decides to act on the information on this page, Canadian LIC is not responsible for what happens. Every attempt is made to provide accurate and up-to-date information on Canadian LIC. Some of the terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, termination, and other parts of the policies mentioned above may not be included, which may be important to the policy choice. For full details, please refer to the actual policy documents. If there is any disagreement, the language in the actual policy documents will be used. All rights reserved.

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