What happens if I don’t pay my life insurance premium?
We'll cover what happens when you don’t pay your term life insurance premium in a timely fashion. If your policy is canceled, there are a few ways you can get it reinstated.
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Brad Larson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Aug 10, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right life insurance coverage choices.
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Our life insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different life insurance companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about life insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything life insurance-related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by life insurance experts.
UPDATED: Aug 10, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right life insurance coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident life insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one life insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our life insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different life insurance companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- All term life insurance policies allow for some grace period in making your monthly premium payment
- The common length of a grace period is 30 days
- If you don’t pay before the end of the grace period, your life insurance company may cancel the policy
Term life insurance is an agreement between you and your life insurance company. Unlike whole life insurance, term life insurance is only provided for a certain period of time. Term lengths can range from five to thirty years from the start date of the policy, and expire at the end, or if you don’t pay your bill.
But what happens if you miss a life insurance payment or stop paying term life insurance premiums? Let’s find out.
Before jumping into the details of what happens if you don’t pay your term life insurance premium, use our free online tool for instant term life insurance quotes in your area. Learn more about how to cancel your life insurance policy.
Not yet ready to buy term life insurance? Read on to learn more.
What happens if you stop paying life insurance premiums?
All term life insurance policies allow for some grace period in making your monthly premium payment. There are different ways that you can pay for your term life insurance policy, and you get to choose how you’ll pay when you set it up. The common length of a grace period is 30 days.
As long as you make your payment within the 30-day window, your policy will remain active. However, remember that different insurance companies have their own rules and guidelines regarding grace periods. Therefore, it’s important to review your policy carefully to understand what to expect in case of late payment with State Farm or if life insurance is canceled due to non-payment. Additionally, be aware of the process for obtaining a refund for life insurance premiums if needed.
After the 30-day grace period for an individual life insurance policy, your life insurance provider may proceed with the cancellation of your term life insurance policy. To prevent the cancellation of term life insurance, promptly make any missed payments. To explore the possibility of reinstatement of a lapsed individual life insurance policy, ensure that payments are made as soon as possible.
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Can a canceled life insurance policy be reinstated?
If you miss a life insurance payment and extend beyond the reinstatement period for life insurance without making a payment, the policy is likely to be canceled.
If you decide you still want coverage, you can apply for reinstatement, but make sure you read the terms and conditions to make sure this is allowed. Each insurance company can make its own rules regarding policy reinstatement. Accelerate the process of acquiring information on how to reinstate a lapsed insurance policy.
Most life insurance companies allow you to apply for reinstatement up to five years after the end of the grace period.
How do I reinstate my unpaid life insurance policy?
To reinstate the policy, here’s what you’ll need:
- Reinstatement Application. Some companies will ask you to complete this, which is pretty similar to your original application.
- Health Statement. Some companies might require that you submit a health statement about your current health status to see if anything has changed since your original application.
- New Paramedical Exam. Some term life insurance companies might require that you take a new medical exam, but this varies from company to company. Most companies don’t require this, however, if you apply within 90 days of the end of the grace period. Some give you up to a year before they require a new exam.
Oftentimes, you won’t need to provide these things, but some insurers will require them.
What if I decide I don’t need life insurance coverage anymore?
Maybe you bought a whole life insurance policy, or perhaps you purchased a less-expensive term insurance policy elsewhere. Perhaps you discovered that there was a difference between term life insurance and permanent life insurance, and you want to switch the type of policy you have. Regardless of your reasons, you have a couple of options for terminating the policy.
- Stop Paying. The simplest way to get rid of your term life insurance is to simply stop paying. The policy will cancel on its own due to non-payment.
- Formally Cancel. If you’d rather let the insurance company know, you can formally cancel your term life insurance policy by calling them and giving them a specific date. You can also ask them to refund any “unused” premiums you’ve already paid. Most companies will have no issues giving you your money back.
When canceling a term life insurance policy, there are generally no obligations tied to the cancellation. However, the company might attempt to provide you with benefits or discounts as an incentive, especially if you have outlived the policy. If you stop payment of whole life insurance premiums or have an overdue insurance payment, these offers may be part of the company’s efforts to retain you.
Also remember, term life insurance rates increase the older you get and the more health risk you present.
Below are a few sample rates from the top three life insurance companies for insurance holders at different stages of life.
Top 3 Life Insurance Companies Based on Stage of Life with Sample Annual Rates
General Age of Insured | Company A & Sample Annual Rates | Company B & Sample Annual Rates | Company C & Sample Annual Rates |
---|---|---|---|
20s | Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co.: $177.25 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance: $195.50 | Pacific Life: $199.92 |
30s | Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co.: $201.00 | Pacific Life: $215.12 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance: $222.25 |
40s | Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co.: $321.50 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance: $339.75 | Pacific Life: $364.25 |
50s | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance: $604.50 | Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co.: $646.00 | Pacific Life: $719.04 |
60s | Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co.: $1317.25 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance: $1469.25 | Pacific Life: $1604.12 |
Read more: Massachusetts Life Insurance
Comparing rates from the top three companies for you will help you narrow down your options and choose the best life insurance policy for your needs.
Case Studies: What happens if you don’t pay your life insurance premium?
Case Study 1: John’s Missed Payment
John, a 40-year-old individual, had a term life insurance policy with XYZ Insurance Company. Due to financial difficulties, he missed his premium payment within the grace period of 30 days.
As a result, his policy was canceled by the insurance company. In this case, John faced the consequences of not paying his term life insurance premium on time.
Case Study 2: Sarah’s Policy Reinstatement
Sarah, a 35-year-old policyholder, missed her term life insurance premium payment and allowed her policy to lapse. Realizing the importance of life insurance coverage, she decided to reinstate her policy.
Sarah contacted her insurance company and followed their specific reinstatement process, which involved submitting updated information, completing an application, and paying the outstanding premiums along with applicable fees or interest.
After meeting the requirements, her life insurance policy was successfully reinstated.
Case Study 3: Mark’s Decision to Terminate Coverage
Mark, a 50-year-old individual, had a term life insurance policy for several years. However, he recently decided that he no longer needed life insurance coverage. Mark contacted his insurance company and expressed his intention to cancel the policy.
He terminated the policy without any complications or strings attached, as he had reached a point in life where he felt adequately protected.
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Bottom Line on Not Paying Your Term Life Insurance Premium
Thankfully, term life insurance policies are usually easy to reinstate if you fall behind, and — unlike whole life insurance — there aren’t as many complications if you don’t pay your premium on time.
If you find yourself falling behind on term life insurance payments or you’re unsure about whether you want to continue your coverage, contact your insurance agent or your life insurance company to discuss your options. They can help you make an informed decision in order to keep your loved ones protected.
If your individual life insurance policy has recently lapsed, consider shopping around for a new one that can protect you and your family.
Still need to make a decision about purchasing a term life insurance policy? Try our free online tool to get instant term life insurance quotes from insurers in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don’t pay my life insurance premium?
If you fail to pay your life insurance premium in a timely manner, your policy may be canceled. However, there are usually options available to reinstate the policy. It’s important to contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible to discuss your options and avoid a policy cancellation.
Can a canceled life insurance policy be reinstated?
In some cases, a canceled life insurance policy can be reinstated. Each insurance company has its own rules regarding policy reinstatement, so it’s crucial to review the terms and conditions of your specific policy. Generally, you can apply for reinstatement within a certain timeframe, usually up to five years after the end of the grace period.
How do I reinstate my unpaid life insurance policy?
To reinstate your unpaid life insurance policy, you will typically need to contact your insurance company or agent and follow their specific reinstatement process. The requirements may vary, but you may need to provide updated information, complete an application, and pay any outstanding premiums, along with any applicable fees or interest.
What if I decide I don’t need life insurance coverage anymore?
If you decide that you no longer need life insurance coverage, you have the option to terminate the policy. This can usually be done by contacting your insurance company or agent and expressing your intention to cancel the policy. Keep in mind that there may be certain benefits or discounts offered to policyholders who outlive their policies, so it’s worth discussing your decision with your insurance provider.
What are the consequences of not paying term life insurance premiums?
If you fail to pay your term life insurance premiums, your policy may lapse or be canceled. This means that you will no longer have the coverage provided by the policy. It’s important to make payments within the grace period specified by your insurance company to avoid a policy cancellation. If you’re unsure about your options or need assistance, reach out to your insurance agent or company for guidance.
What happens if you stop paying a life insurance policy?
If you stop paying a life insurance policy, it may lapse or become inactive. This means you could lose the coverage, and any benefits or claims may not be paid out. The exact outcome depends on the type of policy and how long you have missed payments.
Can a lapsed life insurance policy be reinstated?
Yes, a lapsed life insurance policy can often be reinstated, but it usually requires paying any overdue premiums and possibly providing evidence of insurability. The specific process and requirements can vary by insurance company and policy type.
Can you pause life insurance payments?
Pausing life insurance payments is generally not an option. However, you may be able to take advantage of a grace period or work with your insurer to find alternative solutions, such as adjusting the policy or temporarily reducing coverage.
How long do you have to reinstate a lapsed life insurance policy?
The timeframe to reinstate a lapsed life insurance policy varies by insurer but is typically between 30 to 90 days from the policy’s lapse date. Contact your insurance company to understand the specific reinstatement period for your policy.
How long is the grace period for a life insurance policy?
The grace period for a life insurance policy is usually 30 days from the due date of the premium. During this time, the policy remains in force, and you can make the payment without losing coverage.
How to cancel a Primerica life insurance policy?
To cancel a Primerica life insurance policy, contact Primerica’s customer service or your insurance agent. You may need to provide written notice or complete a cancellation form, depending on the policy’s terms.
What happens after term life expires?
After term life insurance expires, the coverage ends, and no benefits will be paid out. If you need continued coverage, you may have the option to convert to a permanent policy or purchase a new term policy.
What happens if a premium due is not paid before the end of the grace period?
If a premium is not paid before the end of the grace period, the policy will typically lapse, meaning coverage ends and no claims will be paid. The policyholder may lose any accumulated cash value or benefits.
What happens if I cancel my life insurance?
If you cancel your life insurance, coverage ends, and no benefits will be paid out. You may be eligible for a refund of any unused premiums or cash value, depending on the type of policy and its terms.
What happens if I don’t pay my life insurance premium?
If you don’t pay your life insurance premium, the policy may lapse after the grace period expires. This means you will lose coverage, and any claims may be denied. Some policies offer reinstatement options.
What happens if you cancel a life insurance policy?
When you cancel a life insurance policy, coverage ends, and no benefits are paid out. Depending on the policy, you might receive a refund of any cash value or unused premiums.
What happens if you stop paying term life insurance?
If you stop paying term life insurance premiums, the policy will lapse after the grace period. Coverage will end, and no benefits will be paid if a claim is made after the policy has lapsed.
What happens if your life insurance lapses?
If your life insurance lapses, coverage ends, and you will not be covered for any claims. You may lose any cash value or benefits associated with the policy, although some insurers offer options to reinstate the policy.
What is the grace period for life insurance?
The grace period for life insurance is typically 30 days after the premium due date. During this time, the policy remains in force, allowing you to pay overdue premiums without losing coverage.
What to do when life insurance won’t pay?
If your life insurance won’t pay a claim, review the policy terms to understand the reason for denial. Contact your insurer to resolve the issue, and consider filing a complaint or appeal if necessary.
When can you stop paying premiums on whole life insurance?
You can stop paying premiums on whole life insurance once the policy has accumulated enough cash value to cover future premiums. This is often known as “paid-up” status, and you should check with your insurer for specifics.
When should you stop paying for life insurance?
You should consider stopping life insurance payments if you no longer need coverage, such as in retirement or if you have sufficient financial resources. Evaluate your situation and policy benefits before making this decision.
Will Allstate reinstate my policy?
Allstate might be able to reinstate a lapsed policy, generally within a designated period and under specific conditions. For details on the Allstate policy reinstatement process and the Allstate payment grace period or grace period for late payment, reach out to Allstate directly.
Does Liberty Mutual have a grace period?
Yes, Liberty Mutual typically offers a grace period for policyholders who miss their payment due date. The grace period usually lasts 10 to 15 days, during which time the policy remains active, and coverage is maintained. It’s important to review your specific policy details or contact Liberty Mutual directly to confirm the exact grace period for your policy.
How can I cancel Gerber Life Insurance?
To cancel a Gerber Life Insurance policy, you need to contact Gerber Life Insurance customer service directly. You can do this by phone, mail, or online. Be sure to have your policy number and personal information handy. Follow the instructions provided by the customer service representative to complete the cancellation process.
What happens if I make a late payment for Sun Life Insurance?
If you make a late payment for Sun Life Insurance, your policy may enter a grace period during which coverage remains active. If payment is not made within this grace period, your policy could lapse, leading to potential loss of coverage. It’s important to contact Sun Life Insurance to discuss your payment status and avoid any lapse in coverage.
Who is Brad Larson at State Farm?
Brad Larson is an agent with State Farm Insurance. To get specific information about his services, office location, or contact details, you should visit the State Farm website or contact their customer service.
How can I get a Pacific Life term insurance quote?
To obtain a quote for Pacific Life term insurance, visit the Pacific Life website or reach out to a licensed insurance agent. You can complete an online form or consult with an agent to get a customized quote based on your coverage requirements and personal details. Be aware that non-payment of premium could affect your Pacific Life payment terms.
How do I cancel a Primerica life insurance policy?
To cancel a Primerica life insurance policy, contact Primerica’s customer service. You may need to provide your policy number and complete any required forms. Make sure to follow up to confirm that your policy has been canceled and to understand any potential refunds or outstanding obligations.
Can a lapsed life insurance policy be reinstated?
Yes, a lapsed life insurance policy can often be reinstated, but it typically requires proof of insurability and payment of any outstanding premiums. The process and requirements vary by insurer, so it’s best to contact your insurance provider for details on how to reinstate a lapsed policy.
What are the consequences of not having life insurance?
The consequences of not having life insurance include financial instability for your dependents in the event of your death, as they may face challenges covering expenses such as funeral costs, debts, and living expenses. Without coverage, there is no financial safety net to support your family or beneficiaries.
Why might someone say Hudson Insurance is unsatisfactory?
Criticism of Hudson Insurance could stem from various factors such as poor customer service, claims handling issues, high premiums, or coverage limitations. To understand specific concerns, it’s helpful to look at customer reviews or feedback about Hudson Insurance’s services.
How can I pay my bill on ColonialPenn.com?
To pay your bill on ColonialPenn.com, log in to your account on their website. Navigate to the payment section, where you can enter your payment details and submit the payment. If you need assistance, you can also contact Colonial Penn’s customer service for help with bill payment.
What is the State Farm return of premium policy?
The State Farm return of premium policy is a form of term life insurance that reimburses the premiums paid if the insured survives the policy term. Unlike traditional term life insurance, which does not offer refunds on premiums, this return of premium (ROP) policy ensures that all premiums paid during the policy term are refunded to the policyholder if they do not pass away before the term ends. This feature can be especially beneficial for individuals concerned about their insurance payments being wasted if they outlive the policy term. Additionally, if a policyholder misses a payment or experiences a State Farm insurance lapse grace period, the return of premium policy may still offer protection and financial value despite a State Farm policy lapse or State Farm payment grace period.
Your life insurance quotes are always free.
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Brad Larson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about life insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything life insurance-related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by life insurance experts.