One way to prepare for the unexpected is to purchase life insurance. Life insurance can provide financial security to your loved ones in the event of your untimely death. The money gained from a life insurance policy can help cover expenses such as funeral costs, unpaid debts, and mortgage payments. It can also provide income replacement to dependents who rely on you financially. Essentially, life insurance provides a way to ensure that your family’s financial burden is not made worse by your death.
A common misconception about life insurance is that it’s only necessary if you have dependents. However, even if you’re single and childless, life insurance can still be a valuable investment. For example, if you have an aging parent who relies on you for financial support, life insurance can help ensure that they are taken care of after you’re gone. Additionally, purchasing a policy when you’re young can lock in lower premiums and protect against any unforeseen health problems that may arise later in life.
Another unexpected event that can cause financial strain is an untimely disability. According to the Social Security Administration, one in four 20-year-olds will become disabled before they reach retirement age. While you may think that worker’s compensation or disability insurance from your employer will cover you in such an event, it may not be enough to maintain your current lifestyle. Additionally, if you work for yourself or are a sole proprietor, you may not have access to such benefits. This is where long-term disability insurance (LTD) comes in.
LTD insurance is designed to provide financial security if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. Unlike worker’s comp or disability insurance from an employer, LTD is personally owned and not tied to a specific job. LTD policies vary depending on the provider, but they typically provide around 60% of your gross monthly income. This can help cover expenses such as rent/mortgage, utilities, car payments, and medical bills. While it may seem like an added expense during an already tight budget, LTD insurance can bring peace of mind knowing that you’re protected in case something goes wrong.
While it’s uncomfortable to think about what may happen if tragedy strikes, it’s important to prepare for the unexpected. Purchasing life insurance and long-term disability insurance can provide much-needed financial security for you and your loved ones. Remember, it’s never too early to start planning for the future, and you’ll be glad you did in the event of an emergency.