FAQ
Life insurance, in plain English.
Real answers to the questions people ask most. If yours isn't here, reach out — we're happy to help.
How much life insurance do I need?
A common guideline is 10 to 12 times your annual income, but the right amount depends on your debts (like a mortgage), your family's future expenses, and how long you want the coverage to last. The calculator on our home page lets you explore different amounts and see an estimated monthly cost in real time — no commitment required.
What's the difference between term and whole life insurance?
Term life covers you for a set period (like 20 years) and pays out only if you pass away during that term. Whole life covers you for your entire life and builds cash value you can borrow against. Term is usually much cheaper; whole life is permanent. Many families use a mix of both.
How much does life insurance cost?
It varies based on your age, health, coverage amount, and the type of policy. A healthy 30-something can often get hundreds of thousands of dollars in term coverage for a modest monthly amount. The best way to know your real price is to run a quote — you can start one through our secure quoter.
Do I need a medical exam to get life insurance?
Not always. Many term and whole life policies require a short medical exam, but there are also "simplified issue" and final expense policies that skip the exam and use a health questionnaire instead. We can help you find an option that fits your situation.
Can I get life insurance if I have health issues?
Often, yes. Different carriers and products have different underwriting guidelines, and an independent broker can shop across companies to find one that fits your health history. Some guaranteed-issue policies don't require medical questions at all, though they may come with a waiting period before full benefits apply.
What are living benefits?
Living benefits let you access part of your death benefit while you're still alive if you experience a serious illness — like a heart attack, stroke, cancer, or a condition that prevents you from caring for yourself. Not every policy includes them, so it's worth asking about when you compare options.
What is final expense insurance?
Final expense insurance is a smaller whole-life policy designed to cover end-of-life costs like funeral services, cremation, and outstanding medical bills. It's usually simple to qualify for and is popular with older adults who want to leave a modest, guaranteed amount to their family.
How do I buy life insurance in Illinois?
You can start right here. Run a quote through our secure online quoter to see real options, or reach out and we'll walk through your situation and compare plans from multiple carriers. As an independent broker based in Central Illinois, I'm here to help — not to push.
What happens if I miss a payment?
Most policies have a grace period (often 30 or 31 days) during which your coverage stays in force. If you miss that window, the policy can lapse. Many carriers let you reinstate a lapsed policy within a set time, sometimes with a health statement. If you ever have trouble, reach out and we'll help you figure out your options.
Can I change my coverage later?
Often, yes. Many term policies let you convert to permanent coverage without a new medical exam during a conversion window. You can also usually apply for additional coverage later, though it will be priced at your age and health at that time. It's smart to review your coverage when life changes — a new home, a new child, a new business.