How Much Life Insurance Do I Actually Need?

A common starting point is 10–12 times your annual income, but the right number depends on your specific obligations. Think about what your family would actually need if your paycheck disappeared tomorrow.

Add up your major financial responsibilities: mortgage balance, other debts, future college costs for your kids, and the years of income your family would need to maintain their lifestyle. Then subtract existing savings and any current coverage.

Don't forget non-earning spouses. The cost of replacing childcare, household management, and other contributions is real — and easy to underestimate until it's needed.

Coverage doesn't have to be expensive. A healthy 40-year-old can often get $500,000 of 20-year term coverage for less than the cost of dinner out each month. We'll run a quick needs analysis so you don't pay for more — or less — than you need.