One of the most important things you will ever do is to choose a life insurance policy that will provide for your family after you are gone. Choosing the life insurance policy that is right for you and your family can be quite confusing. Do you want term life insurance? Would whole life, or permanent life, insurance be a better choice? Before you purchase a life insurance policy, make sure you understand the differences between the types of life insurance that are available to you.

Life insurance is generally purchased as either term or whole life, also known as permanent insurance. While the cost of term life insurance may be significantly lower than whole life, this doesn't automatically mean it is the best type of policy for you. The security of your family is the most important factor in choosing a life insurance policy. Make sure you know the details of the different types of policies and the benefits your family will receive.

Whole life, or permanent insurance will provide coverage throughout your lifetime. Your coverage will never expire and never require renewal. Your family will be guaranteed a certain amount of money upon your death and the policy will remain in effect as long as the premium is paid in a timely manner. These types of policies sometimes have a cash value that may be borrowed against or paid to the owner of the policy in the event the policy is cancelled before the death of the insured. This amount will not be the same as the amount that would be paid to your survivors in the event of your death. Instead it would be the actual amount you have paid towards the policy plus any interest that amount might have accrued.

Term life insurance is less expensive than whole life. The difference is that a term life insurance policy is effective only for a certain period of time, usually 10 to 30 years in duration. After this time expires you will have to purchase another term life policy for the term of your choice. Term life insurance is normally quoted dependent on the health and age of the insured. The older you get, the more expensive your premiums will be upon renewal. You can get a no obligation quote for your term or whole life insurance policy. Providing for your family may be the most important thing you will ever do. Don't leave your family unprepared.

To view our recommended life insurance companies, visit: Recommended Life Insurance Companies.

Carrie Reeder is the owner of eZerk, an informational website with articles and the latest news about various topics.