| Type | Coverage period | Cash value | A reason to consider it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term life | A selected term, often 10-30 years | Usually none | More coverage for a temporary need |
| Whole life | Lifetime, with required payments | Policy guarantees and possible nonguaranteed additions | Permanent protection with predictable premiums |
| IUL | Can be lifelong if adequately funded | Interest credits linked to an index; costs apply | Permanent protection with cash value flexibility |
Start with the type of policy
Term life covers a set period. Whole life can last your lifetime while required premiums are paid. Indexed universal life, or IUL, combines permanent life insurance with cash value potential and a different set of costs and risks.
Then consider how you will use it
Mortgage protection and final expense describe what the coverage is intended to help pay for. No medical exam describes part of the application process. They are not separate alternatives to every type of life insurance.

