What Is Convertible Life Insurance?


Enter your ZIP code to get started

Shield

Free. Simple. Secure.

Convertible life insurance is a type of policy designed for those who initially opt for term life policies. Over time, these policies offer a life insurance conversion option, allowing policyholders to switch from term to permanent coverage without undergoing additional medical examinations.

The primary advantage of convertible term life insurance lies in its flexibility. Policyholders can leverage the term life conversion option to extend their coverage well beyond the initial term, adapting to evolving financial needs or health statuses. Having a conversion provision in life insurance may benefit those who anticipate that their financial needs or health status may change and want to ensure continuous protection.

Key Takeaways

blueCheck icon

Convertible term life insurance allows the conversion of term life insurance to a permanent policy without medical exams.

blueCheck icon

Convertible life insurance is ideal for those expecting changes in financial needs or health. It also suits those who seek flexibility in their coverage duration.

blueCheck icon

Convertible life insurance implements a term life insurance conversion period, a designated timeframe within which term policies can be converted to permanent insurance without medical reassessment. This period can vary per insurer.

How Convertible Life Insurance Works

Convertible life insurance, also known as convertible term life insurance, operates through a conversion rider attached to a term life policy. This allows for an option to convert term life insurance to a permanent form of coverage without the need for a new medical examination. The process is designed to ensure continuity of coverage, allowing the policy to adapt as the policyholder's needs or health status changes.

When a convertible term life policy is converted to a permanent policy, the insured does not face interruptions or denials based on health issues that may have arisen since the initial term policy was issued. This feature is particularly beneficial as it offers a safeguard against becoming uninsurable due to health changes. It is important to note that converting term to permanent life insurance involves a predetermined conversion period, during which the policyholder must decide to make the switch.

clock icon
LIFE INSURANCE TERM CONVERSION EXPIRY DATE

The life insurance term conversion expiry date marks the final date by which policyholders must elect to convert their term coverage into permanent insurance. Missing this date can forfeit the conversion privilege, leaving the insured without the option to extend their coverage under the existing terms.

Partial Conversion of Life Insurance

Partial conversion is a flexible feature within convertible term life insurance policies. This approach allows you to convert a portion of your term life policy into a permanent policy, maintaining some term coverage. It offers a balanced solution for those who need both temporary and lifelong protection.

For example, if a policyholder has a $500,000 term policy, they could choose to convert $200,000 into a permanent policy, maintaining $300,000 as term insurance. This flexibility ensures coverage continuity while adapting to changing financial responsibilities.

However, some insurance providers stipulate a minimum amount that must be converted, while others may not allow partial conversions.

When to Consider Convertible Life Insurance

Convertible life insurance offers several benefits that cater to various life situations and financial needs. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider this type of policy:

    family icon

    You provide for dependents

    If you have dependents relying on your income, a convertible life insurance policy can provide financial support, even in your absence. Since the policy can be converted to a permanent one, it provides lifelong coverage.

    studenLoansDebt icon

    You have outstanding debt

    If you have significant debts, such as a mortgage or student loans, a convertible term life insurance policy can assure that these debts will be covered in the event of your death, preventing a significant financial burden on your loved ones.

    heartWithPlus icon

    You want coverage, even if your health changes

    Having a conversion option in life insurance allows you to switch to a permanent policy without a medical exam, ensuring continuous coverage even if your health condition changes. With this feature, you can convert your policy regardless of any future health complications.

    wristwatch icon

    You're not sure how long you'll need coverage

    If you are unsure how long you'll need protection, a convertible policy offers flexibility. You can start with a term policy and convert it to a permanent one when you see fit.

    refound icon

    You're concerned about renewal costs

    If you are worried about the escalating costs of renewing a term life policy, a convertible policy can be cost-effective. It allows you to lock in a permanent policy at a lower cost.

How to Convert Term to Permanent Life Insurance

Converting term life insurance to a permanent one is fairly straightforward. This step-by-step guide can help you navigate the process:

  1. 1
    Review your policy

    Start by examining your term life insurance policy. Make sure it includes a conversion life insurance rider, which is the provision that allows you to convert your term policy into a permanent policy.

  2. 2
    Select a permanent policy

    Next, decide on the type of permanent life insurance policy that suits your needs. You might have options like whole life or universal life insurance to choose from.

  3. 3
    Initiate the conversion

    Reach out to your insurance company to start the conversion process. This step typically involves completing a conversion application and outlining the specifics of your new policy.

  4. 4
    Examine and approve the new policy

    After your application is approved, examine the new policy and its premiums. Accept the policy to finalize the conversion if all aspects align with your expectations. This acceptance marks the successful transition from a term to a permanent life insurance policy.

vsDocuments icon
TERM VS. PERMANENT LIFE INSURANCE

The main differences between term life insurance and permanent life insurance revolve around duration, cost and value accumulation. Term life insurance is designed for a specific period, such as 10, 20 or 30 years, making it generally less expensive but without any cash value accumulation. In contrast, permanent life insurance, which includes whole life and universal life, covers you for your entire life and typically accumulates cash value over time.

Convertible Life Insurance: Pros and Cons

Like any financial product, convertible life insurance has its advantages and potential downsides. By examining the pros and cons of this coverage, you can decide if it aligns with your personal needs and long-term financial goals.

Pros of Buying Convertible Life Insurance

  • Adaptability: Convertible life insurance offers the flexibility to modify your coverage in response to evolving needs, ensuring your policy remains relevant throughout different life stages.

  • Assured conversion: The conversion feature of this policy type is guaranteed, allowing you to switch to a permanent policy without a medical exam, regardless of any changes in your health status.

  • Accumulation of cash value: Converting term life insurance to a permanent policy initiates cash value accumulation, offering an additional financial resource over time.

  • Potential for dividends: Once converted, some permanent policies pay dividends, providing an additional financial benefit.

  • No risk of policy cancellation: As long as premiums are paid, the converted permanent policy can't be canceled by the insurer, even if your health deteriorates.

Cons of Buying Convertible Life Insurance

  • Increased premiums: Permanent life insurance policies typically come with higher premiums than term policies, which could impact your budget.

  • Restricted conversion window: The conversion of your policy is bound by a specific timeframe known as the conversion period, which is outlined in each policy's terms. If you miss the conversion window, the opportunity to convert may be lost, leaving you with a term policy or the need to purchase a new policy with higher premiums.

  • Limited options for conversion: Depending on the insurer, you may have limited choices for the type of permanent policy you can convert to.

ARE THERE FEES WHEN YOU CONVERT TERM LIFE TO PERMANENT LIFE INSURANCE?

When converting a term life insurance policy to permanent coverage, it's important to understand the potential costs involved. Generally, there are no explicit fees associated with the conversion itself; however, the premiums for the new permanent policy will typically be higher than those for the original term policy. This increase reflects the extended coverage duration and the addition of a cash value component in permanent policies.

The cost to convert from term to permanent life insurance can vary, but the absence of medical underwriting typically offsets potential cost increases due to health issues. That said, always review the new policy details and premium adjustments and evaluate whether the new premiums fit your budget and financial goals.

How to Get Convertible Life Insurance

Whether you plan to convert a term life insurance policy in the future or want to leave the option open, selecting an appropriate convertible term life insurance plan is a strategic decision for long-term financial security. This guide can help you through the process of obtaining coverage:

  1. 1
    Determine your needs

    Begin by evaluating your financial needs and insurance requirements. Understanding your needs will help you pinpoint the amount of coverage that aligns with your lifestyle and future goals.

  2. 2
    Compare quotes

    Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Research multiple insurance companies and gather several life insurance quotes to identify the best rates and terms. This comparison will help you find a policy that offers value and meets your specific needs.

  3. 3
    Apply for a policy

    Once you have selected a provider, complete the application process. This step usually involves filling out a detailed form and undergoing the underwriting process, where the insurer assesses your risk profile.

  4. 4
    Review and accept your policy

    After receiving approval, thoroughly review your policy and its terms. Ensure that everything aligns with what you have discussed with the insurer. If all aspects are satisfactory, accept the policy and finalize your convertible life insurance coverage.

Where to Buy Convertible Life Insurance

Insurance providers now offer online applications for convertible life insurance, allowing you to compare and purchase coverage quickly.

For those who prefer a more traditional approach, contacting an insurance agent directly offers a personalized experience. Agents can discuss your specific needs, present suitable options, help you understand the terms and guide you through the application process.

Whether you opt for the ease of online applications or the customized guidance of a direct agent, accessing a convertible term life insurance is often straightforward. Both methods provide avenues to secure a policy that offers the flexibility of a life insurance conversion option, ensuring you have coverage that adapts to your life's changes.

mglogo icon
MONEYGEEK EXPERT TIP

Maximize the benefits of your term conversion life insurance by closely monitoring the conversion period. The conversion period in term life insurance is your window to convert to permanent coverage without medical reassessment, often before significant life changes can affect your insurability. Acting within this timeframe ensures you secure lifelong coverage under favorable terms.

Compare Insurance Rates

Ensure you are getting the best rate for your insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.

widget-location-pin
Insurance Rates

Alternatives to Convertible Life Insurance

If convertible life insurance doesn't align with your specific needs or preferences, there are other options to consider. Each offers unique features and benefits, catering to various financial situations and coverage needs:

  • Level term life insurance: This policy provides coverage for a predetermined period, with premiums that remain constant throughout the term. It can be an ideal choice for those seeking stability in their payments and coverage needs that align with a specific timeframe, such as the duration of a mortgage.

  • Decreasing term life insurance: With this option, the death benefit gradually diminishes over the policy's term. It's well-suited for individuals whose financial obligations are expected to decrease over time, such as parents with children who will eventually become financially independent.

  • Permanent life insurance: If lifelong coverage and the potential for cash value accumulation are your priorities, you might opt to purchase a permanent policy directly. Permanent coverage comes in the form of whole or universal life insurance. Unlike term policies, permanent life insurance doesn't expire, providing continuous protection.

  • Partial conversions: This approach allows you to convert a portion of your term life policy into a permanent policy, maintaining some term coverage. It offers a balanced solution for those who need both temporary and lifelong protection.

  • New term life policy: If your needs have changed, but you still prefer term coverage, obtaining a new term life policy tailored to your current situation might be the right path.

  • Burial insurance: For those primarily concerned with covering final expenses, burial insurance offers a simple and affordable solution. This coverage ensures that funeral costs and related expenses are handled, helping ease the financial burden on loved ones.

Convertible Life Insurance FAQ

MoneyGeek addressed some commonly asked questions to enhance your understanding of convertible life insurance.

What is a convertible term life insurance policy?

Can you convert a term life insurance policy?

How do I know if my term life insurance policy is convertible?

How do you convert term life to whole life insurance?

Is it worth converting term to whole life insurance?

What are the pros and cons of converting term life to whole life insurance?

What is a conversion period in life insurance?

What if I outlive my convertible term life insurance?

Can whole life insurance be converted to term?

About Mark Fitzpatrick


Mark Fitzpatrick headshot

Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.