Your 60s are a vibrant, dynamic time full of exciting changes. Many Americans retire during their 60s, but others may keep working longer to meet larger financial goals, like paying off a mortgage or supporting children through college. On the other hand, some people in their 60s have grandchildren, and others become empty-nesters for the first time.

As you navigate your 60s while managing today’s financial responsibilities and planning for tomorrow, a senior life insurance policy can help. End-of-life conversations can be difficult at any age. Nevertheless, life insurance offers you the freedom to enjoy your time with loved ones instead of worrying about their financial future.

Can you get life insurance over 60?

 

Not only can adults over 60 get life insurance, but several types of policies available. While life insurance needs differ for everyone, there are plenty of reasons to consider taking out a policy.

Why would you need life insurance after 60?

 

Life insurance provides a safety net for your loved ones in an already difficult time. There are a few reasons why you might want to make this investment in your family’s future:

• Cover education costs: Your death benefit, the payout your beneficiary will receive, can help your children or your grandchildren pay for their education costs.
• Pay off debts: Debts you leave behind after you die, like credit cards or medical bills, may come out of your estate. Or, worse, if you have any shared accounts, your surviving loved one could inherit any remaining balance. Your life insurance can pay off that debt, so no one finds themself stuck with it.
• Pay down a mortgage: You and your family may still make mortgage payments on your house. With adequate life insurance coverage, loved ones can pay off the mortgage, so your family’s home is secure.
• Cover funeral or burial expenses: Beneficiaries can use the payout they receive from your insurance policy to cover your funeral and other end-of-life expenses.
• Leave a legacy:  With life insurance, you can leave a tax-free inheritance that your family can invest in their futures. The money your beneficiaries receive could help your loved ones finance milestones like a wedding, buying a house, or even caring for their children.

 

If anyone depends on your income, make sure you have enough life insurance coverage to meet their needs so they can maintain their lifestyle after you’re gone.

Types of life insurance for seniors 60 and over

Your 60s often bring with them a wide range of experiences, and you might find that your life insurance needs start to look a little different. Fortunately, there are several types of life insurance for seniors over 60 to choose from, each with its advantages.

Term life insurance

 

Term life insurance policies cover a fixed period between 10 and 30 years. These plans offer substantial coverage at a reasonable cost. A term life policy could make the most sense if you’re still concerned about specific expenses, like a mortgage or a loved one’s education. Likewise, if you’re looking for extra financial security for a low monthly premium, term life insurance could be a great fit.

In the first half of your 60s, up through age 65, Fidelity Life’s RAPIDecision® Life insurance offers quick approval and low-cost plans with 10, 15, 20, and 30-year terms. If you’re over 65, RAPIDecision® Senior Life Term can provide excellent coverage with reasonable premiums.

You can often receive an instant eligibility decision for RAPIDecision® Life while taking up to 6 months to complete a medical exam if required. RAPIDecision® Senior Life Term often requires only a short medical questionnaire.

Permanent life insurance

Permanent life insurance offers coverage through the end of your life as long as you continue paying premiums. Most permanent policies, like RAPIDecision® Senior Whole Life, also accrue some cash value. You can borrow from that cash value during your life to supplement your savings or retirement funds.

A whole life policy can be essential if any loved ones consistently rely on any portion of your income. The death benefit is substantial enough to cover bills and daily living costs, and you never have to worry about renewing  your policy.

Final expense life insurance

If your loved ones are financially independent and your debts are all paid, you may still want to consider final expense life insurance. These plans are accessible and affordable to provide your loved ones with enough money to lay you to rest. On average, funerals cost around $9,000, and many families are unprepared to take on this expense when the need arises. Fidelity Life’s RAPIDecision® Final Expense insurance offers coverage up to $40,000 for funerals, remaining medical debts, and more.

Final expense policies often don’t require a medical exam, though some policies will ask you to complete a health questionnaire. If you’re concerned that a health condition might limit your eligibility, you can apply for RAPIDecision® Guaranteed Issue Life, which has no medical requirements.

How seniors over 60 can choose the right life insurance policy

End-of-life planning is never easy, and comparing life insurance policies can feel overwhelming. However, there are fundamental questions that can help guide you through the process. Some of the most important questions to consider are:

• Does anyone, like your children, grandchildren, or  spouse, depend on your income?
• How long will loved ones need your support?
• Will anyone rely on you indefinitely?

These questions will likewise help you with choosing a beneficiary. When deciding on coverage amounts, consider your income, expenses, bills, and debts to ensure you get a policy that will meet your family’s needs.

A licensed insurance agent can support you if you want further guidance on life insurance options for seniors over 60 or quotes for specific plans. Get your quote online or call an agent today.