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Life insurance 101: what do I need to know?

Life insurance is important to your financial security. As a vital part of your financial plan, it needs to be reviewed regularly. As you experience changes in your life and career, your goals and protection needs may change.

Why do I need life insurance?

Life insurance is an essential part of any financial program. Most people buy life insurance to replace income that would be lost at the death of a wage earner. The cash provided by life insurance also can help ensure your dependents are not burdened with significant debt when you die. Life insurance proceeds could mean your dependents won't have to sell assets to pay outstanding bills or taxes. An important feature of life insurance is that generally no income tax is payable on proceeds paid to beneficiaries. If you have questions about tax matters, talk to your tax advisor.

This information should not be considered tax advice. You should consult your tax advisor regarding your own tax situation.

How much life insurance do I need?

Before buying life insurance, you should bring together your personal financial information and review your family's needs. There are a number of factors to consider when determining how much protection you should have. Including:

  • Any immediate needs at the time of death, such as final expenses, burial costs and estate taxes;
  • Funds for a readjustment period, to finance a move or to provide time for family members to find a job,
How do I choose a beneficiary?

Designating a beneficiary is an important right of life insurance ownership. It lets you determine who receives your policy benefits. Under current tax law, life insurance benefits paid to a beneficiary are generally not taxable income.

Common terminology
What is medical underwriting, and why must I answer health questions?

To ensure you are in good health to qualify for a life insurance policy, you are asked a few medical questions as part of providing evidence of insurability (EOI).

What is the underwriting process?
What do I do if I have a claim?

Securian Financial is committed to providing superior service to you and your family when you have a claim. Our goal is to process all claims promptly, fairly and courteously. Most claims are processed in 5-10 calendar days of receipt of the necessary claim information.

If you or your family wish to present a claim, please contact your company's benefits department for specific instructions. You may also call us concerning the status of a claim at .

How do I learn more about a life insurance company?

Before purchasing life insurance, we encourage you to evaluate the financial strength and ethical reputation of the insurance company. This can be done by requesting information from the state insurance department or reviewing information from an insurance rating service. You can also check your state insurance department's web site (if available).

We are highly rated by the major independent rating agencies that analyze the financial soundness and claims-paying ability of insurance companies. Learn more about the rating agencies and view our ratings.