Understanding life insurance helps you make confident choices for your family’s future. Below you’ll find clear answers to common questions—no jargon.
1. How much coverage do I need?
Many Cottonwood families target 10–15× annual income, then adjust for mortgage balance, debts, savings, and college or childcare costs.
2. What riders should I consider?
Common options include accelerated death benefit, waiver of premium, child rider, and term rider—each adds specific protections.
3. Can I own more than one policy?
Yes. It’s common to layer a term policy for income protection with a smaller permanent policy for lifelong needs.
4. What happens if I miss payments?
Term policies usually lapse after a grace period. Some permanent policies can use built‑up cash value to keep coverage active temporarily.
5. Do I need a medical exam?
Some policies require an exam to qualify for lower rates. Others offer no‑exam or simplified issue coverage with different eligibility and pricing.
6. How fast can I get coverage?
Accelerated underwriting can approve some applicants the same day. Traditional underwriting may take 1–2 weeks depending on your health profile.
7. What are the main types of life insurance?
Term life covers you for a set period (10–30 years) at a lower cost. Permanent life (Whole or Universal) lasts your entire lifetime and can build cash value.
8. How are premiums determined?
Age, health, tobacco use, coverage amount, and policy length/type all affect price. Generally, younger and healthier applicants pay less.
Still have questions? Connect with a licensed local professional for clear, no‑pressure guidance and quotes.