10 Mistakes to Avoid While Buying a Term Insurance Policy
Purchasing a term insurance plan is one of the most crucial financial decisions to secure your family's future. However, many individuals make common mistakes that could lead to financial setbacks or inadequate coverage. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure you get the best benefits from your term insurance policy.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Term Insurance Plan
Let's take a look at the most common mistakes people make while purchasing term insurance plan and understand how to avoid them:
Buying Insufficient Coverage
A primary purpose of term life insurance is to provide financial stability to your family in your absence. If the sum assured is inadequate, your family may struggle to maintain their standard of living. Your coverage should be at least 10-15 times your annual income to ensure long-term financial security.
Delaying the purchase of a term plan leads to higher premiums. The best time to buy is when you are young and healthy, as you get lower premiums and greater coverage for the long term. Waiting until later increases the cost and may limit your eligibility due to health conditions.
Choosing a Shorter Policy Term
Opting for a short-term policy to save money can backfire. If your coverage expires when you still have financial responsibilities, you may have to buy a new policy at a much higher premium. Opting for the longest term available is wise to ensure continued protection.
Providing Incorrect or Incomplete Information
Failing to disclose medical history, lifestyle habits (such as smoking or drinking), or existing health conditions can result in claim rejection. Always provide accurate information while purchasing a policy to avoid complications in the future.
Adding Unnecessary Riders
While riders enhance coverage, adding too many can make the policy expensive. Evaluate whether you need additional benefits like critical illness or accidental death riders before including them in your policy.
Ignoring Online Insurance Options
Many people prefer traditional offline methods but often miss out on cost-effective options available online. Buying term insurance through an IRDAI-approved web aggregator can help compare multiple policies, ensuring better coverage at lower premiums.
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Not Comparing Policies from Different Insurers
Many policyholders buy insurance from familiar companies without comparing other options. Exploring different insurers can help you find better coverage at competitive rates. Always compare plans, features, and claim settlement ratios before deciding.
Some insurers attract customers with low premiums but include hidden exclusions. Instead of focusing solely on affordability, ensure the policy offers comprehensive coverage with minimal exclusions and a high claim settlement ratio.
Cancelling an Existing Policy Before Getting a New One
Switching policies without a proper plan can leave you temporarily uninsured. Always secure a new policy before discontinuing an old one to avoid any gaps in coverage.
Failing to Read the Terms and Conditions
Many policyholders overlook the fine print, leading to misunderstandings later. Carefully review the inclusions, exclusions, premium structure, and claim process before finalizing a policy.
Avoiding these common mistakes can help you choose the best term insurance policy tailored to your needs. By opting for adequate coverage, comparing plans, providing accurate details, and reading policy documents thoroughly, you can make a well-informed decision that benefits your family in the long run.
What happens if I provide incorrect details in my policy application?
Ans: If false or incomplete information is provided, your claim may be rejected, leaving your beneficiaries without financial support.
How do I determine the right sum assured for my policy?
Ans: Experts recommend choosing coverage at least 10-15 times your annual income, considering future financial obligations and inflation.
Is it better to buy term insurance online or offline?
Ans: Online term insurance policies often come at lower premiums due to reduced operational costs. Comparing policies online also provides better clarity on features and benefits.
Can I increase my term insurance coverage later?
Ans: Some insurers allow policyholders to enhance coverage at key life stages (marriage, childbirth). However, this may require additional medical evaluation.
Why should I opt for a longer-term policy?
Ans: A longer tenure ensures that you remain covered when your financial responsibilities are at their peak, avoiding the risk of policy expiry when you need it the most.
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Policybazaar does not endorse, rate or recommend any particular insurer or insurance product offered by any insurer. This list of plans listed here comprise of insurance products offered by all the insurance partners of Policybazaar. For a complete list of insurers in India refer to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India website, www.irdai.gov.in
+Rs. 487/month (Rs.16/day) is starting price for a 1 crore term life insurance for an 18 year-old male, non-smoker, with no pre-existing diseases, cover upto 38 years of age.
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+Rs. 820/month is starting price for a 2 crore term life insurance for an (NRI) 18 year-old male, non-smoker, with no pre-existing diseases, cover upto 38 years of age.
+Rs. 1,443/month is starting price for a 5 crore term life insurance for an (NRI) 18 year-old male, non-smoker, with no pre-existing diseases, cover upto 38 years of age.