Second-to-die life insurance
Second-to-die life insurance is also referred to as joint survivor or survivorship life insurance. It is different from traditional life polices in that it insures the lives of two people (typically married) under a single policy and pays out the death benefit only after the second insured dies. Second-to-die life is often more affordable (because you're purchasing a single policy instead of two separate policies and because both policyholders must die before a benefit is paid), and it can sometimes be easier to qualify for a policy in underwriting. Traditionally issued as a permanent* policy (whole or universal life), second-to-die life can also be underwritten on a term life insurance policy form.Universal and variable universal life insurance
Universal and variable universal life insurance are sometimes used in survivorship estate planning. As permanent policies, they afford the flexibility to vary the amount or timing of premium payments, and the death benefit may be adjusted up or down (in accordance with the plan limits) without having to purchase a new or separate policy. And because these policies can grow in value, they allow you to build an estate, not just insulate it from taxes. It is important to note that variable life growth is based on the investment performance of the selected investment funds inside the policy.Single-premium variable life insurance
Single-premium variable life insurance allows you to buy insurance with a single premium (lump sum) payment in return for a guaranteed death benefit that will remain paid-up until you die. Because the costs are paid in full and upfront, the cash value can grow quickly and your insurance coverage is entirely paid by the account value of the policy which grows if the underlying investment earnings are positive rather than with annual premiums. This policy allows your named beneficiaries to receive benefits income tax-free and without the time delay and expense of probate costs.Which type of survivorship life insurance policy is right for you?
Consult with a qualified life insurance professional and consider the following questions:
- Do you need/want to transfer wealth in a tax-efficient manner?
- Do you need to ensure that funds are available for fees, taxes, and other estate expenses?
- Do you need to provide funding beyond your lifetime for care of a child or other dependent with special needs?
- Are you interested in a life insurance policy with a tax-deferred investment component that could potentially increase the amount of your death benefit?
- Do you have assets that are difficult to divide and feel you should equalize your estate among your beneficiaries?
Life insurance needs arise from both personal and business concerns and can include cash for estate tax liabilities, funding a college education for grandchildren, or to fund a trust for a disabled child. For these and similar second death concerns, second-to-die insurance can often be the right policy in estate planning.
*As long as required premium payments are timely made.
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