Deciding what to do with an unneeded life insurance policy is a significant financial decision for many seniors. While some may consider surrendering their policy to the insurer, others might find a life settlement to be a more advantageous option. This blog post will explore the pros and cons of choosing a life settlement over a policy surrender, helping you make an informed decision based on your personal financial needs and circumstances.

What is a Life Settlement?

A life settlement involves selling your life insurance policy to a third party for more than its cash surrender value but less than its net death benefit. Essentially, it allows policyholders to access the value of their life insurance while they are still alive.

What is a Policy Surrender?

Policy surrender means giving up the policy back to the insurance company in exchange for the cash surrender value. This is the amount the policyholder receives if they decide to terminate the policy before it matures or the insured event occurs.

Pros of Choosing a Life Settlement

• Increased Payout Potential: Life settlements generally offer a higher payout than the cash surrender value provided by the insurance company, which can be particularly beneficial if the policy has a high face value and the policyholder has a shorter life expectancy.
• Market-Based Value: The payout from a life settlement is determined by competitive market factors, which can sometimes result in better offers compared to the fixed formula used to calculate CSV by insurance companies.
• Elimination of Premium Payments: Selling your policy frees you from ongoing premium payments, which can be a significant financial relief, especially if these payments are substantial.

Cons of Choosing a Life Settlement

• Complexity and Time: The process of a life settlement can be complex and time-consuming. It involves negotiations with potential buyers, which can extend over a period of time and require detailed medical and personal information.
• Broker Fees: Life settlements involving a broker who facilitate the transaction will charge fees for their services. This can reduce the net payout you receive.
• Potential Loss of Benefits for Heirs: By selling your policy, you forego the death benefit that would otherwise go to your beneficiaries upon your passing.

Comparing Tax Implications

When considering a life settlement or policy surrender, it’s important to understand the similar tax treatments for both options. Whether you opt for a life settlement or surrender your policy, the tax implications hinge on the policy’s adjusted cost basis (ACB). The ACB is calculated as the total premiums paid minus any dividends received or withdrawals made. For both life settlements and policy surrenders, any amount received above the ACB is subject to income tax. This means that if the cash payout—whether from a life settlement or a CSV—exceeds the ACB, the excess amount will be taxed as income. Despite the similarity in tax treatment, the complexity of the transactions and the potential for different financial outcomes suggest that consulting with a tax professional is crucial. This ensures that you fully understand how these rules apply to your particular situation and can make the most financially sound decision.

Making the Right Choice

When deciding between a life settlement and a policy surrender, consider the following steps to ensure you make the best choice for your situation:

1. Evaluate Your Financial Needs: Assess what you need financially for the present and future. Consider how the immediate cash from a life settlement or surrender can benefit your situation.
2. Consult with Professionals: Speak with your financial advisor, a tax professional, and a reputable life settlement broker to understand the full implications of your decision.
3. Compare Offers: If you decide to explore a life settlement, get quotes from several companies to ensure you are getting a fair offer.
4. Consider Your Health: Your health status can significantly impact the decision. Those with a longer life expectancy may find less value in a life settlement.

Are you considering a life settlement for your life insurance policy? Wondering if you’re eligible to sell your life insurance policy? Learn more about selling your policy and find out if you qualify for a life settlement by contacting the experts at Canadian Life Settlements today.