Term Life Insurance 2026

The most affordable way to protect your family. $500,000 in coverage for as little as $21/month.

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What Is Term Life Insurance?

Term life insurance pays a tax-free death benefit to your beneficiaries if you die during the policy term (10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 years). If you outlive the term, no benefit is paid — but you've paid a fraction of what whole life would cost.

It's the right choice for most people because it covers your family during your highest-need years: while the mortgage is active, kids are in school, and your income is essential.

$21
Starting monthly rate (age 25, $500K)
$500K
Most popular coverage amount
20 yr
Most popular term length
48 hrs
Avg. approval time (no-exam)

2026 Term Life Rate Table — $500,000 Coverage

Age10-Year Term15-Year Term20-Year Term30-Year Term
25$14/mo$17/mo$21/mo$29/mo
30$16/mo$19/mo$25/mo$34/mo
35$18/mo$22/mo$31/mo$46/mo
40$24/mo$31/mo$44/mo$68/mo
45$36/mo$48/mo$67/mo$108/mo
50$57/mo$76/mo$102/mo$168/mo
55$91/mo$121/mo$157/moN/A

Male, non-smoker, preferred health. Female rates are 10–20% lower. Smoker rates are 2–4x higher.

How to Choose the Right Term Length

Your SituationRecommended TermWhy
Single, no dependents10 yearsCover debts while building assets
Newlywed, no kids yet20 yearsCovers family growth + mortgage
Young kids (under 5)25–30 yearsCovers through college graduation
Kids in middle/high school15–20 yearsCovers remaining parenting years
Near retirement10–15 yearsBridge to retirement assets

Term Life vs. Other Types

FeatureTerm LifeWhole LifeUniversal Life
Coverage period10–30 yearsLifetimeLifetime (flexible)
Monthly cost (age 35, $500K)$31$400–$600$250–$400
Cash valueNoYesYes
Best forMost familiesEstate planningFlexible needs
ComplexitySimpleModerateComplex

Full term vs. whole life comparison →

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when term life insurance expires?

Coverage stops. You can renew at much higher rates, convert to a permanent policy, or buy a new policy. If you're healthy, a new policy is usually cheapest.

Can I get term life insurance without a medical exam?

Yes. Many carriers offer accelerated underwriting — you answer health questions online and get approved in 24–48 hours. Coverage amounts up to $3M are available without a physical. See no-exam options →

Is term life insurance worth it?

Yes — especially if anyone depends on your income. A 30-year-old can get $500,000 of coverage for $25/month. If you die unexpectedly, that pays off your mortgage, funds college, and replaces years of income. The math is strongly in your family's favor.

Lock In Your Rate Today

Term life rates increase every year you wait. A 35-year-old pays 40% less than a 40-year-old for the same policy.

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