%20scale(0.8388520971302428)'%20fill='%23FFFFFF'%3e%3cpolygon%20points='0,0%20102,0%20256,322%20307,238%20345,315%20247,500'/%3e%3cpolygon%20points='230,0%20333,0%20519,390%20467,494'/%3e%3cpolygon%20points='615,0%20712,0%20532,350%20489,254'/%3e%3cpolygon%20points='656,185%20656,422%20906,422%20866,500%20570,500%20570,354'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
Compare
Every coverage type, side by side.
A plain-language comparison so you can narrow it down before you ever talk to me. Nothing here is a recommendation — your situation decides the answer.
| Feature | Indexed Universal Life | Term Life | Whole Life | Final Expense |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| How long it lasts | Permanent, if adequately funded | A stated term (often 10–30 years) | Permanent, if required premiums are paid | Permanent, if premiums are paid |
| Relative cost | High, flexible | Lowest | Highest | Low premium, high per dollar |
| Builds cash value | Yes, not guaranteed | No | Yes, per the policy's guaranteed schedule, subject to the insurer's claims-paying ability. | Small amount |
| Premium flexibility | Flexible | Fixed | Fixed | Fixed |
| Typical coverage | $100k – $1M+ | $100k – $1M+ | $25k – $500k | $5k – $50k |
| Medical exam | Usually | Often optional | Sometimes | No |
| Best for | Flexible premium schedules | Replacing income while kids are home | Wanting coverage that doesn't end at a set term | Ages 50 to 85 |
Find my fit
The tools and content on this site are educational only. They are not financial, tax, or legal advice and do not constitute a recommendation of any specific policy.