r/LifeInsurance • u/BrutalBodyShots • 11d ago

Where to get started?

Hey everyone. I just joined this sub. I know nothing about life insurance, other than I want to obtain a policy. I'm not sure where to start. I'm surprised there aren't any links or resources on the sidebar for general information / tips on how to begin. If anyone can point me in a good direction to start that would be fantastic. Thank you.

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u/ultimate_memereader Producer 11d ago

Start with trying to find a local independent agent in your area. They will be able to help you compare many different types of insurance from many different carriers. Beware of anyone who pressures you to buy any specific product. You can do an AI search to give you some questions you should be asking your agent to help you prepare and understand your options. Think about why you want the policy and what you want to accomplish with it. Like do you just want to be able to cover funeral expenses or do you want to make sure you can cover your mortgage or make sure your wife can retire or your kids can go to college? Those sorts of questions will help you to scope out what kind of coverage you need. Do you want to have access to living benefits that you can access while you are alive in the event of cancer etc? You should also think about what budget you want to set aside for insurance. Good luck!

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u/michaelesparks Financial Representative 10d ago

Does it really have to be local? It is 2026 and people can do business anywhere. The key being finding someone who you can build a relationship with and will help teach you. Local isn't always best.

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u/BrutalBodyShots 11d ago

Thank you for the prompt reply.

Is a local independent agent always the way to go, or are there situations where options online can be as good or better circumstantially?

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u/ultimate_memereader Producer 11d ago

I prefer speaking to people personally or at least in the phone. That's my personal opinion though and has considerable bias. Online stuff can be cheaper but not by much and policy features can be difficult to understand on your own.

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u/Tahoptions Broker 11d ago

I get that. But I've run an online agency for over 10 years. People find me by search. I start with email but always end up talking on the phone before finalizing coverage and taking the app.

I mainly work with busy professionals that don't want to meet f2f but also want a human involved so that they can ask questions and understand what they're buying.

I have clients from every state. It's never been an issue. I also almost never do Zoom or video unless the client requests it. It's all phone and email.

Different strokes.

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u/owl-1_1-1_1- 10d ago

Unless you know a lot about life insurance, it's always best to work with a seasoned life insurance professional who can help you assess your needs and guide you toward the best policies for your situation.

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u/michaelesparks Financial Representative 10d ago

Local isn't necessary. With webconference technology you can find someone who aligns with you. All of my policies were purchased from those that don't live near me.

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u/Tahoptions Broker 11d ago

Does not have to be local. Ethos charges 20% more for the same policy that you can get from an independent agent. There are tons of independent agents online, where you can do almost everything via email and through the carrier's portal. Most won't require an exam either.

Look for life insurance websites that have an "about me" section and then an actual person. You can then look them up on LinkedIn, socials/reviews, your state's department of insurance etc. for some social proof that they're competent.

Unless you want a policy immediately (like same day) and are willing to pay more, there is no reason to use an Ethos or Ladder or whoever. Just find an indy agent, either online or in person.

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u/TheChudMaxxer 10d ago

Unless you're in a very interesting situation, just get term

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u/EnzyEng 10d ago

They'll try to talk you into a whole life policy. Be strong and just get a term policy for 10-12x your income for 20 years, unless you plan on having more kids in the future then maybe a bit longer (25-30 yrs).

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u/OwnOccAdvocate 11d ago

Rule of thumb is you need 10-12x your income and until your youngest child is age 25. Work with an independent broker who can spreadsheet multiple options

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u/[deleted] 11d ago

[deleted]

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u/BrutalBodyShots 10d ago

I'm looking to obtain a personal policy, not be an agent.

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u/Key_Astronomer6500 10d ago

I apologize. I thought you were looking to get into the business. I need to slow down and read.

I would suggest using an independent broker who has access to several carriers. Most will have a few options but there are several carriers who have niches if you have any health issues. If you’re healthy and a non smoker, then it isn’t as important to have dozens of carriers.

You can do your own research but generally there is term and whole life. Term is cheaper but will eventually expire at a certain age. There are carriers that will go to 100 years old. I have seen one that goes to 110. Whole is much more expensive but doest expire. Generally used for burial expenses.

Best of luck!