See how Term Life, Whole Life, IUL, and Final Expense stack up side by side.
Life insurance is not one-size-fits-all. The right policy depends on your age, health, financial goals, family situation, and budget. Some people need affordable temporary protection, while others want lifelong coverage that doubles as a savings vehicle.
Below, you will find a detailed side-by-side comparison of the four main types of life insurance I offer: Term Life, Whole Life, Indexed Universal Life (IUL), and Final Expense. Use this guide to narrow down which policy type aligns best with your needs, then let me help you find the best carrier and rate.
A quick-reference breakdown of how each policy type compares across the features that matter most.
| Feature | Term Life | Whole Life | IUL | Final Expense |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage Duration | 10 – 30 Years | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime |
| Premium Type | Level / Fixed | Level / Fixed | Flexible | Level / Fixed |
| Cash Value | Guaranteed | Index-Linked | Modest | |
| Relative Cost | ||||
| Death Benefit | $50K – $10M+ | $25K – $1M+ | $100K – $10M+ | $5K – $50K |
| Cash Value Access | Loans & Withdrawals | Loans & Withdrawals | Limited | |
| Market Risk | None | None | Protected (0% floor) | None |
| Medical Exam | Usually Required | Sometimes | Sometimes | No Exam |
| Conversion Option | To Permanent | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Best For | Young families, mortgage protection, income replacement | Legacy planning, wealth building, estate needs | Retirement income, growth-focused investors | Seniors, burial costs, simplified approval |
Not sure which column describes you? Book a free consultation and I will walk you through it.
Explore each policy type in detail, including key advantages, trade-offs, and who benefits most.
Pure protection for a defined period. The most affordable way to secure a large death benefit during the years your family depends on your income most.
Pros
Cons
Permanent protection with guaranteed cash value growth. A cornerstone of financial planning that provides lifelong security and wealth-building potential.
Pros
Cons
Flexible permanent coverage with cash value growth tied to stock market indexes. Enjoy upside potential with a built-in 0% floor to protect against losses.
Pros
Cons
A simplified whole life policy designed to cover end-of-life costs. No medical exam required, making it accessible for seniors and those with health conditions.
Pros
Cons
The best policy type depends on your personal circumstances. Here are some general guidelines to help you start thinking about what fits:
Every family is different, and there is no single answer that works for everyone. The best way to determine which policy type or combination is right for you is to talk it through with a licensed professional who can evaluate your full picture.