10 Pay Life Insurance: What Is This? How Does It Work?

Shawn Plummer

CEO, The Annuity Expert

Life insurance is a crucial investment for anyone who wants to secure their financial future and protect their loved ones in case of an untimely death. While many types of life insurance policies are available, one that is often overlooked but worth considering is 10-pay life insurance. As the name suggests, this policy requires the policyholder to make premium payments for only ten years, after which the policy remains in force for the rest of their life. In this guide, we will explore the key features of 10-pay life insurance and help you determine if it is the right option.

What Is A 10 Pay Life Insurance

10-pay life insurance is a type of whole life insurance that requires the policyholder to make premium payments for only ten years. Unlike traditional whole life insurance policies, which require the policyholder to make premium payments for the rest of their life, 10-pay life insurance allows them to pay off their policy in a shorter period. After the policyholder has made the required ten payments, the policy remains in force for the rest of their life, as long as the premiums are paid on time.

What Is A 10 Pay Life Insurance

How does it work?

The premiums for 10-pay life insurance are higher than those for traditional whole life insurance policies, as the policyholder pays off their policy in a shorter period. However, the premiums are fixed and will not increase over time, unlike term life insurance policies. This means that the policyholder can budget for their premiums with certainty, knowing that they will not increase in the future.

Who is it for?

10-pay life insurance is ideal for individuals who want to pay off their life insurance policy in a shorter period while still having the security of a whole life insurance policy. It is also a good option for individuals nearing retirement age who want to protect their loved ones in case of an untimely death.

Advantages of 10-pay life insurance

One of the main advantages of 10-pay life insurance is that it allows the policyholder to pay off their policy in a shorter period, saving them money in the long run. Additionally, the premiums are fixed and will not increase over time, providing the policyholder with certainty and predictability in their budget. 10-pay life insurance policies also have a cash value component, which can be borrowed against or used to pay premiums.

Disadvantages of 10-pay life insurance

One of the main disadvantages of 10-pay life insurance is that the premiums are higher than those for traditional whole-life insurance policies. Additionally, if the policyholder misses a premium payment, the policy can lapse, which means they will lose their coverage and any accumulated cash value.

10 Pay Life Insurance Benefits

  • Guaranteed Level Premiums: The insurance is paid up after ten yearly premium payments.
  • Guaranteed Lifetime Coverage: Your coverage cannot be discontinued as long as premiums are paid and policy loans do not exceed the entire cash value.
  • Tax-Deferred Cash Value Accumulation: Your insurance plan is set up to accumulate cash value each year on a tax-deferred basis. You can use policy loans and withdrawals to help pay for a big purchase, add to your retirement income, or provide in times of need.
  • Policy Dividends: A dividend may be paid on your 10 Pay Life Insurance Policy.
  • Living Benefits: A portion of the death benefit may be used to pay for medical expenses if you have a specified medical condition, terminal illness, or chronic illness.

How to choose the right 10-pay life insurance policy

When choosing a 10-pay life insurance policy, it is essential to consider the premium amount, the death benefit, and the cash value component. Choosing a reputable insurance company with a good track record of paying claims is also important. Comparing multiple policies from different insurance companies can help you find the right policy for your needs.

Alternatives to 10-pay life insurance

Other life insurance policies should be considered if 10-pay life insurance does not suit your needs. Term life insurance, for example, is a more affordable option that provides coverage for a specific period, such as 10 or 20 years. Another option is universal life insurance, which provides more flexibility in premium payments and death benefit amounts.

Tips for buying 10-pay life insurance

  • Compare policies from different insurance companies to find the best rates and coverage options.
  • Consider the premium amount, death benefit, and cash value component when choosing a policy.
  • Choose a reputable insurance company with a good track record of paying claims.
  • Work with a licensed insurance agent to help you navigate the buying process and find the right policy for your needs.

Helpful Tip: To ensure a secure financial future, investing in an extensive life insurance policy and a reliable living will or trust is imperative. For the best estate plan service for your budget, we highly recommend these options:

10-Pay Life Insurance

You Can Use Your IRA Money

There are 10 Pay Life Insurance policies designed for seniors up to age 80 that will accept funds from an IRA.

  • The owners will convert the taxable retirement plan into a tax-free death benefit on Day 1.
  • These policies include a single-premium immediate annuity (SPIA) and a 10-pay hybrid policy.
  • The retiree transfers the funds into the hybrid policy without a taxable event.
  • The policy then distributes money from the IRA (via the SPIA) into the 10-pay life insurance policy over ten years.
  • The retiree reports the taxable distribution each year for ten years.

Companies that accept IRA funds include (but are not limited to):

Next Steps

10-pay life insurance is a type of whole life insurance that allows the policyholder to pay off their policy in 10 years while still providing the security and benefits of a traditional whole life insurance policy. While it is more expensive than traditional whole-life insurance, it can be a good option for individuals who want to pay off their policy in a shorter period. Before purchasing a 10-pay life insurance policy, it is essential to compare policies from different insurance companies and work with a licensed insurance agent to ensure that you find the right policy for your needs.

10-Pay Life Insurance Policies

10 Pay Life Insurance Quotes

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Frequently asked questions about 10-pay life insurance

Is 10-pay life insurance more expensive than traditional whole life insurance?

Yes, 10-pay life insurance premiums are typically higher than those for traditional whole-life insurance policies.

Can the policy lapse if I miss a premium payment?

Yes, if you miss a premium payment, the policy can lapse, and you will lose your coverage and any accumulated cash value.

Can I borrow against the cash value of my 10-pay life insurance policy?

Yes, you can borrow against your policy’s cash value or use it to pay premiums.

Can I cancel my 10-pay life insurance policy?

Yes, you can cancel your policy anytime, but you may incur surrender charges and lose any accumulated cash value.

*Disclosure: We are grateful for your support! Some of the links in this guide may be affiliate links and if you purchase a policy through these referrals, I will receive a commission. Your contribution assists us with keeping our business running smoothly!

Shawn Plummer

CEO, The Annuity Expert

I’m a licensed financial professional focusing on annuities and insurance for more than a decade. My former role was training financial advisors, including for a Fortune Global 500 insurance company. I’ve been featured in Time Magazine, Yahoo! Finance, MSN, SmartAsset, Entrepreneur, Bloomberg, The Simple Dollar, U.S. News and World Report, and Women’s Health Magazine.

The Annuity Expert is an online insurance agency servicing consumers across the United States. My goal is to help you take the guesswork out of retirement planning or find the best insurance coverage at the cheapest rates for you. 

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