The one-line version
Term insurance pays your family a large sum (the 'sum assured') if you pass away during the policy period. If you outlive the term, there's usually no payout — and that's exactly why it's so cheap.
Think of it as pure protection: you're not investing, you're buying peace of mind for a small yearly premium.
Why it's the foundation of a financial plan
If anyone depends on your income — a spouse, children, parents — term insurance replaces that income if you're gone. A ₹1 crore cover can cost a healthy 30-year-old a surprisingly small premium.
It should almost always come before investments. Protect the downside first, then grow your money.
What to look for
- A high enough sum assured (a common rule of thumb is 10–15× your annual income)
- A claim settlement ratio you can trust
- Cover that lasts until you'd retire or your dependents are independent
- Honest disclosures — never hide health or lifestyle facts, or claims can be rejected
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Vijay Singh Rana — HDFC Financial Advisor · IRDAI & AMFI Registered