life insurance

Life Insurance and Provision for Terminal Illness and End of Life Expenses: What You Need to Know

May 28, 2024

Facing a terminal illness or chronic illness brings a multitude of challenges, not least among them the financial implications for you and your loved ones. In these moments, understanding your life insurance options is crucial. 

Here, we demystify life insurance in the context of terminal illness and possible chronic illness, offering guidance and clarity on how to navigate this difficult terrain.

Life Insurance Options for Terminal or Chronic Illness

Life insurance isn't just a policy you set and forget; it's a dynamic tool that can offer support in times of critical need, such as during a terminal and chronic illness, or a specified medical condition.

Traditional Life Insurance Policies

Most are familiar with the death benefit provided by standard life insurance policies, but many aren't aware of the provisions that can become pivotal during terminal illness.

The Role of Living Benefits Riders

Living Benefits Riders allow policyholders to access part of their death benefit early under certain conditions, such as a terminal diagnosis or qualifying event situations.

The 1891 Living Benefits Rider allows the policyholder to access a portion of the death benefit of the policy in advance of the insured’s death, if the insured experiences a qualifying event or is diagnosed with a terminal illness.

Accelerated Death Benefit Riders

Accelerated death benefit (ADB) riders enable policyholders to tap into their death benefit early, providing financial relief when it's most needed.

Who Qualifies?

Eligibility hinges on specific criteria, typically including a doctor's certification of a terminal illness with a limited life expectancy. The 1891 Living Benefits Rider may also provide financial relief in the event of a qualifying event, such as chronic illness or a specified medical condition.

Weighing Pros and Cons

While ADB Riders can offer immediate financial support, it's important to consider potential impacts on the policy's remaining death benefit and how it might affect beneficiaries.

Accessing the Benefits

The process for activating an ADB rider usually involves submitting medical documentation and a formal request, a step where timeliness and accuracy are key.

Importance of Planning Ahead

Discussing end-of-life wishes isn't easy, but it's a crucial step in ensuring those wishes are honored and that financial affairs are in order.

Policy Review and Updates

A terminal diagnosis is a critical juncture to review your life insurance policy, ensuring it aligns with your current needs and circumstances.

Seeking Expert Guidance

Navigating insurance options during terminal illness is complex, making the advice of financial advisors and insurance professionals invaluable.

Understanding Is Key

In the face of a terminal illness or qualifying event, comprehending your life insurance options is vital, offering a semblance of control and peace in uncertain times.

Terminal illness is an incredibly challenging journey, both emotionally and financially. Life insurance, with its myriad options and provisions, can provide a crucial financial lifeline during this time. 

Understanding these options, from living benefits riders to hybrid policies, can empower you and your loved ones to make informed decisions that align with your needs and wishes. It's a conversation worth having for peace of mind and proactive financial planning.

Life Insurance for the Possibility of Terminal Illness

Discover the peace of mind that comes with 1891 Financial Life's life insurance for the possibility of terminal illness and contact us today. Prepare yourself and your loved ones for life's uncertainties with a policy designed to provide financial protection in the face of adversity. 

About 1891 Financial Life

Our culture is about looking out — for you, for others, for family, for the community. That is how we go “Beyond Life Insurance.”

At 1891 Financial Life, we don’t just sell policies, we offer possibilities. We pride ourselves on giving back to the communities that we serve by providing quality and comprehensive insurance solutions. 

We are a not-for-profit life insurance Society, which means the sales from these financial service products help fund member benefits along with social, educational, and volunteer programs designed to respond to community needs. 

In 2023, 1891 Financial Life was listed by Forbes as one of "The World's Best Life Insurance Companies." Our portfolio is extensive, ranging from various life insurance policies to our annuities to support your financial needs no matter what stage of life you’re in.