So you’ve got your home and auto insurance policies set up and crossed off your list. But what about life insurance? If you haven’t gotten around to it yet, you’re not alone: Last year, only 60% of Americans had some form of life insurance in place.¹

Maybe getting life insurance is already on your radar. Or maybe it's not—because life itself is just so busy! If you have loved ones who depend on your income, it’s worth knowing how life insurance can protect them if anything happens to you. So here’s what you need to know about life insurance—how it works, what it costs, and which type is right for you.  

What Is Life Insurance?

Life insurance is an agreement between you and an insurance provider that, in exchange for your monthly payments, the insurer will pay a sum of money to your loved ones when you die.

Okay, it’s not a fun topic to think about. But focus on this: You buy life insurance not because you’re going to die but...