Simplifying Life Insurance in India
Can You Take a Loan Against Term Insurance Policy?
The most essential purpose of life insurance is to protect the family's financial future if the insured dies young. Several policies tend to offer extra benefits, including the possibility of taking out a loan against them.
Borrowing against life insurance policies allows policyholders to use their policy's cash value as collateral to obtain a loan. The loan amount is usually a percentage of the policy’s surrender value, and the outstanding loan, including interest, reduces the death benefit if unpaid.
This article will explore the concept of taking a loan against a term life insurance policy and how this financial option works.
Table of Contents
What is a Loan Against a Term Life Insurance Policy?
A loan against a life insurance policy refers to borrowing some funds by using the policy's value as security. This usually comes in handy with life insurance that has a built-in cash value.
Examples include whole life insurance and universal life insurance. Term life insurance, conversely, does not usually entail such an element and, therefore, cannot be loaned against.
Can You Take a Loan Against Term Life Insurance Policy?
The answer depends on the specific policy and the insurance provider. In most cases, since term life insurance does not accumulate cash value, it cannot be used as collateral for a loan. However, policies with return-of-premium riders may allow loans based on the surrender value if applicable.How Does Loan Against Term Life Insurance Policy Work?
If your term life plan has provisions for a loan, just like in the case of a return-of-premium feature, the loan is generally built around the policy's surrender value.
Here's how it works:
Eligibility Check
The insurance service first checks whether the applicant is qualified for a loan, which it usually uses as collateral based on accruing cash value.Pay-out on the Loan
The loan amount is calculated based on a percentage—usually 80% - 90%—of the policy's surrender value.Interest Rates
Interest on the loan is either fixed or variable according to the condition provided by the insurance company.Repayment Terms
You repay the loan with interest over a specified period, either through installments or a lump-sum payment.Features and Benefits of Loan Against Life Insurance Policies
Here are some of the prominent features and benefits of taking a loan against life insurance policies:
No Credit Check
A loan against an insurance policy does not require a credit check since the policy itself guarantees it, unlike personal loans or bank loans, which require checking the credit score.
Lower Interest Rates
The interest rates for the loan against insurance policies are relatively lower compared to a regular personal loan since it is already backed up by the policy.
Flexible Repayment
They provide flexible repayment, so the borrowers can repay at their convenience without terminating the insurance cover.
Quick Access to Funds
Loans in the form of advances on life insurance policies are usually managed very quickly compared to other loans, thus allowing immediate access to funds.
Life Cover Continuation
The cover continues if the interested party pays the loan interest premiums in time.
Eligibility Criteria to Take Loan Against a Term Life Insurance Policy
1. Policy Type
Primarily available for whole life, universal life, or endowment policies. Some term policies with specific riders may qualify.2. Policy Maturity
The policy must have a minimum age or surrender value before a loan can be considered.3. Loan Limit
Loans are typically limited to a percentage of the policy's surrender value.Documents Required for Taking Loan Against Term Life Insurance
To apply for a loan against a life insurance policy, you will need to provide the following documents:
How Much Loan Can You Avail Against Term Life Insurance?
If you a life insurance policy with return-of-premium features or or guaranteed benefits, which has the cash value attached to it, only then you can get loan against your term life insurance policy.
Steps to Avail a Loan Against Life Insurance Policy
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Ensure that your policy qualifies for a loan. For term policies, check if any riders provide cash value.Step 2: Submit Application
Complete the loan application form provided by the insurance company.Step 3: Provide Documents
Submit the required documentation, including policy documents and proof of identity.Step 4: Approval Process
Wait for approval. If the loan is approved, the funds will be disbursed into your bank account.Applicable Fees for Loan Against Term Life Insurance Policy
Processing Fee
Some insurance companies charge a nominal processing fee for the loan.Service Charges
Periodic charges for maintaining the loan account.The following table details some of the applicable fees:
What are the Repayment Terms After Availing the Loan?
Key Considerations Before Opting Loan Against Term Life Insurance?
Impact on Death Benefit
Any unpaid loan amount will reduce the death benefit paid out to your beneficiaries.Loan Limits
Ensure the loan you receive is sufficient for your financial needs.Repayment Obligation
Be sure you can comfortably repay the loan to avoid forfeiture of the policy.Consultation
Consider consulting a financial advisor to understand the full implications of taking a loan against your policy.FAQs about Loan Against Term Life Insurance
What is a loan against a term life insurance policy?
Which types of insurance policies qualify for a loan?
How much loan can I get against my term life insurance policy?
What is the interest rate for a loan against insurance?
How is the loan amount calculated based on the surrender value?
What happens if I don’t repay the loan?
Can I continue my life insurance policy after availing of the loan?
Is the death benefit impacted if I take a loan against my policy?
How do I apply for a loan against a term insurance policy?
What are the key documents required for a loan against insurance?
How long does it take to get a loan against my policy?
Are there any charges or fees associated with the loan?
Can I avail of a loan against term insurance policies?
What happens to the loan if my life insurance policy matures?
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Disclaimer
- This is an informative article provided on 'as is' basis for awareness purpose only and not intended as a professional advice. The content of the article is derived from various open sources across the Internet. Digit Life Insurance is not promoting or recommending any aspect in the article or its correctness. Please verify the information and your requirement before taking any decisions.
- All the figures reflected in the article are for illustrative purposes. The premium for Coverage that one buys depends on various factors including customer requirements, eligibility, age, demography, insurance provider, product, coverage amount, term and other factors
- Tax Benefits, if applicable depend on the Tax Regime opted by the individual and the applicable tax provision. Please consult your Tax consultant before making any decision.
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