Alternatives
Life settlements* are a great option for many people who have policies that are unaffordable or unwanted. They are not the only option, however. The table below outlines the benefits and pitfalls of the other available options.
| Description | Pro | Con | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Policy loan | Loan that uses the cash value of the policy as collateral. | If the insured does not need that much cash, then provides access to a bit of liquidity while preserving most of the death benefit for heirs. |
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| Surrender the policy for the cash value | Voluntarily terminate the policy in exchange for the accumulated cash value. | Guaranteed funds, though life settlement can usually provide higher return. |
|
| Beneficiaries pay the premium | Beneficiaries take over payment of the premium. | Full death benefit will be available to heirs. |
|
| Accelerated death benefit rider | Life insurance proceeds paid to a terminally ill person before his or her death. Generally, the life expectancy must be 6-12 months and the policyowner may receive 25-75% of the policy's face value. Any remainder is paid to the beneficiary after the insured passes. | The insured has access to funds during their lifetime, while also leaving some death benefit for the beneficiary. |
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