5 to 40 Year Term Insurance Plans in India

Term life insurance is a vital financial safeguard that protects your loved ones in the event of an unexpected tragedy. Selecting an appropriate term insurance plan is critical, especially when determining the policy term. This coverage is available for a designated period, known as the "term," which can vary greatly.
In this article, we will explore various term durations, including 5, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and even 40 years, highlighting their unique features and benefits of each duration, we aim to assist you in identifying the option that best aligns with your specific needs and financial goals.
Table of Contents
What is Term Insurance?
Term insurance is the purest form of life protection that provides coverage for a specified period, or "term," such as 10, 20, or 30 years. If the insured person dies during this term, the policy pays a guaranteed death benefit to the beneficiaries.
Term insurance is known for its affordability, as premiums are generally lower compared to permanent life insurance. However, it does not accumulate cash value. This simplicity makes it the most affordable life insurance, allowing you to secure substantial coverage at reasonable premiums.
Why is the Policy Duration So Important in Term Insurance?
Why is the Policy Duration So Important in Term Insurance?
Just like we don’t buy shoes without considering how long we will wear them, choosing the right duration for term insurance is important.
The duration of a term insurance plan significantly impacts both the premium amount and the coverage it provides. Choosing the appropriate term depends on your age, financial responsibilities, long-term goals, and life stage. Common factors influencing your choice are:
- Age: Younger individuals often opt for longer terms due to lower premiums.
- Life Goals: Protecting children's education, paying off a mortgage, or supporting retirement plans.
- Financial Obligations: Shorter terms may suit temporary liabilities, while longer terms cover extended responsibilities.
How to Choose the Right Term Insurance Duration for Yourself?
Choosing the right term insurance duration depends on various factors such as your age, financial goals, dependents, and liabilities:
5 Year Term Insurance
This insurance plan lasts for 5 years and is a type of short-term life insurance. It has higher rates compared to other short-term plans since insurance companies don't find it cost-effective to evaluate a short policy.
The person covered by this policy can choose to convert it after it ends, but it's advised to consult an expert before doing so to make sure the policy allows conversion.
When is a 5 Year Term Plan Right for You?
A 5-year term insurance policy may seem short, but it has some specific benefits that can meet your needs:
- Ideal for covering obligations that will be completed within five years.
- Provides peace of mind while changing jobs or starting a new career.
- Fills in gaps between jobs or while waiting for a new long-term policy to start.
- Offers protection during defined timelines, such as buying a home or funding education.
Advantages and Limitations of 5 Year Term Plans
15 Year Term Insurnace
A 15-Year Term Insurance plan is designed to provide life insurance coverage for 15 years. It offers a mid-range option between short-term and long-term life insurance. This type of policy can be an ideal choice for individuals with specific financial obligations or responsibilities they would like to protect for a defined period.
Due to its longer duration, a 15-year Term Insurance plan usually has more affordable premium rates than shorter-term policies.
When is a 15 Year Term Plan Right for You?
A 15-year term life insurance plan can be a great choice for many people, especially during significant life stages. Here are some situations where this type of plan might be the best fit:
- Ensures financial support for your kids throughout their school years.
- Helps cover your home loan, ensuring your family can maintain their living situation.
- Provides funds to keep a small business running and cover debts, offering peace of mind to family and partners.
- Ensures financial support for older parents who rely on you.
Advantages and Limitations of 15 Year Term Plans
20 Year Term Insurnace
A 20-year Term Insurance plan is a type of life insurance that provides coverage for 20 years. This policy offers a balanced approach between short-term and long-term life insurance solutions, making it an attractive option for individuals looking for a substantial coverage period without the commitment of a lifetime policy.
Upon the expiration of the 20-year term, policyholders may have the option to renew the policy and convert it to a permanent life insurance plan.
When is a 20 Year Term Plan Right for You?
A 20-year term life insurance policy can be a great option for many reasons:
- Provides coverage from your children's birth through their college years, a period with significant expenses.
- Helps safeguard your family's financial future by covering large debts like a mortgage.
- This lasts during your most productive working years when financial responsibilities are highest.
- Offers extended family protection at reasonable rates without breaking the bank.
Advantages and Limitations of 20 Year Term Plans
25 Year Term Insurance
A 25-Year Term Insurance plan provides coverage for a longer period, offering financial protection for the insured individual and their loved ones over a quarter of a century. Typically, the premiums for a 25-year term policy are more affordable than shorter terms, making it a cost-effective option for long-term financial security.
At the end of the 25-year term, policyholders have the option to convert the policy into a permanent life insurance plan, which provides flexibility and continued coverage.
When is a 25 Year Term Plan Right for You?
A 25-year term life insurance plan is a great choice for people looking for long-term financial security. Here are some situations where it might be the right fit:
- Ensures your child's future needs are met.
- Covers long-term mortgage payments.
- Provides for someone who needs extended support.
- Helps in planning for your business's future.
Advantages and Limitations of 25 Year Term Plans
30 Year Term Insurance
A 30 Year Term Insurance plan offers extended coverage for individuals seeking long-term financial security and family protection. With three decades, this type of insurance provides consistent coverage at affordable premiums, making it a popular choice for those planning for the future.
Policyholders can have peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are financially safeguarded for a significant period.
When is a 30 Year Term Plan Right for You?
A 30 year term life insurance plan offers substantial coverage for various life situations, making it an excellent choice for many.
- It covers you while raising your children, ensuring their needs are met.
- When you are earning the most and have numerous obligations, it provides peace of mind during the years
- Helps in managing ongoing financial responsibilities.
Advantages and Limitations of 30 Year Term Plans
35 Year Term Insurance
A 35 Year Term Insurance plan is designed to provide individuals with long-term financial security and protection for an extended period. This type of insurance offers coverage for thirty-five years, ensuring robust financial protection for the insured and their loved ones.
With affordable premiums and consistent coverage, a 35 year term plan is well-suited for those seeking a comprehensive and long-lasting solution for their insurance needs.
When is a 35 Year Term Plan Right for You?
A 35 year term plan may not be as well-known, but it can benefit those needing extensive coverage.
- Provides security as your responsibilities grow when starting a family.
- Valuable if someone relies on you for financial support.
- Ensures your business can continue upon your death.
- This is for individuals wanting to secure peace of mind throughout their lives.
Advantages and Limitation of 35 Year Term Plans
40 Year Term Insurance
A 40 Year Term Insurance plan provides individuals with extensive financial security and protection for themselves and their beneficiaries. With coverage lasting for four decades, this type of insurance offers long-term peace of mind and assurance.
The premiums for a 40 year term plan are typically affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking for extended coverage.
When is a 40 Year Term Plan Right for You?
A 40 year term life insurance plan offers the longest available coverage, making it a unique option for many.
- Provides extended protection, reassuring you and your loved ones.
- Keeps financial options open without worrying about changing insurance costs.
- Ensures your family is cared for, covering significant responsibilities like a mortgage and children's education.
Advantages and Limitations of 40 Year Term Plans
Compare Premium Prices for 5-40 Year Term Life Insurance
Below are the estimated annual premiums (excluding GST) of Digit Term Life Insurance for a non-smoker male with an annual salary of ₹5-8 lakhs for a standard term life insurance plan offering ₹1 crore coverage. The rates vary based on age and different policy term durations:
Note: These rates can vary depending on the insurance provider, annual salary, policyholder's health, lifestyle, and other factors.
How to Choose the Right Term Insurance Plan?
Assess Your Financial Goals
Start by thinking about what you want to achieve financially. Your objectives will guide your choice:
- Short-Term Needs: If you need coverage for a short time, look at policies lasting 5 or 15 years.
- Medium-Term Goals: If you plan for the next 20 to 25 years, select a policy that fits that time frame.
- Long-Term Security: If you want secure coverage for a longer period, consider policies that last for 30, 35, or even 40 years.
Evaluate Your Age and Life Stage
Your age and where you are in life can affect your decision:
- Younger Individuals: You might want a longer plan. It typically comes with lower premiums (the amount you pay for the insurance), making it a cost-effective option.
- Older Applicants: If you are older, you might prefer a shorter plan. This can help you avoid paying higher premiums that often come with longer terms.
Personal Circumstances
Consider several personal factors such as current age, health status, family situation, dependents, career stage, income potential and any existing debts or financial responsibilities.Financial Goals
When considering what you want your insurance to cover, it's important to consider several key areas. First, if you have debts, such as loans or mortgages, you should consider a policy to cover these. Additionally, planning for your children's educational needs is crucial, so make sure this is part of your coverage.
It's also wise to consider how the policy fits into your retirement plans, ensuring your future savings are protected. Lastly, if you run a business, consider how the policy can support business succession, helping your business continue smoothly if something happens to you.
Cost Considerations
Longer policies generally have higher premiums but provide coverage for a longer time, but make sure you can fit the premiums into your long-term budget. Weigh the costs against the benefits to see if it makes sense. Consider how your income may change over time and how that could impact your ability to pay premiums.Understand Premium Affordability
When choosing a policy, remember that longer terms usually come with higher premiums but offer extended security. Shorter terms may be more affordable; however, you should renew them after expiration.Riders Features
Enhance your insurance coverage by considering additional features or riders:
- Critical Illness Coverage: Critical illness rider provides payouts if you are diagnosed with a serious illness.
- Accidental Death Benefit: Accidental death benefit rider offers extra payments if the policyholder dies in an accident.
- Waiver of Premium: Waiver of premium rider allows you to skip premium payments if disabled.
Compare Plans
Look for various insurance companies and compare their offerings. Don’t settle for the first option. Finding the best deal can save you money and provide better coverage.Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Term Insurance
Underestimating Coverage Needs
Costs can increase over time, so ensure your coverage keeps up with inflation. Consider any big expenses you might face later. Make a list of all your debts, such as loans, mortgages, bills and retirement, to ensure you have enough coverage if something happens. Life can be unpredictable, so it's wise to have some extra coverage for unexpected events or emergencies.Focusing Solely on Price
While it's important to stick to a budget, ensure you get the right coverage level for your needs. A cheaper policy might save you money now but could cost you more in the long run if it doesn't provide enough coverage.
Do thorough research on the insurance company. Look for reviews and ratings to see how they handle claims and customer service. Look closely to what each policy offers. Sometimes, a slightly higher price may provide important benefits that can save you money later.
Neglecting Regular Reviews
Life changes, like getting married, having kids, or changing jobs, can affect your insurance needs, so adjust your coverage accordingly. Every time you experience a significant life event, take the time to reassess your insurance situation.Benefits of Opting for Term Insurance
When considering ways to protect your loved ones financially, term insurance stands out as a practical and cost-effective option that offers numerous benefits:
Affordable Premiums
Term insurance is much cheaper than whole life insurance or universal life insurance policies. This means you can get good coverage without straining your budget.
Easy to Understand
Term insurance is straightforward, making it easy to grasp. Unlike other types of insurance that can be complicated, term insurance clearly defines the coverage period and benefits.
Customisable Options
You can add specific features, known as riders, to your policy. This allows you to tailor the insurance to meet your unique needs, such as adding coverage for critical illness or accident benefits.
Tax Advantages
The premiums you pay for term insurance may qualify for tax deductions, depending on the laws in your country. This can be a significant financial benefit, helping you save money during tax season.
Points to Keep in Mind Before Buying Term Life Insurance

Choosing the right term duration for your life insurance is a personal decision that depends on various factors. Consider your current situation, future goals, and financial obligations carefully. Remember that the best term duration provides adequate protection for your loved ones while fitting comfortably within your budget.
Whether you opt for a short 5-year term or maximum 40 year coverage, ensure your choice aligns with your overall financial planning strategy. Regular reviews and adjustments will help maintain optimal protection throughout your life stages.
Take time to compare options, consult with insurance professionals, and make an informed decision. Your choice of term length today will impact your family's financial security for years, making it one of the most important financial decisions you will make.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age to get 5-year term life insurance?
How long does it take to process a claim for 5-year term life insurance?
What documents are needed to file a claim for 5-year term life insurance?
How can I cancel my 5-year term life insurance policy?
Should I choose a 15-year term insurance policy or a whole life insurance policy?
Can I extend my 15-year term insurance policy?
Will my premiums increase yearly with a 15-year term life insurance policy?
Do I need to have a medical check-up to get a 15-year term life insurance policy?
What is the cost of 25-year term life insurance policy?
How can I reduce premiums for my 25-year term life insurance policy?
Do premiums for a 25-year term life insurance policy increase every year?
Are medical tests required to buy a 25-year term life insurance policy?
What happens if I outlive my 20-year term life insurance policy?
Can I add riders to my 20-year term life insurance policy?
Is a 30 year term life insurance policy suitable for mortgage protection?
What are the tax benefits of a 30 year term life insurance policy?
How does a 35 year term life insurance policy compare to a whole life policy?
Can I decrease the coverage amount of my 35 year term life insurance policy?
Is a medical exam required for a 40 year term life insurance policy?
What happens if I miss a premium payment on my 40 year term life insurance policy?
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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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