Post-Budget Impact: Navigating Term Insurance Choices in India’s Current Economy

New policies, reforms, and incentives have been adopted in India’s latest budget to empower people, boost industry, and stabilise the economy. However, what does this signify for those who purchase term insurance plans? Several economic circumstances, including the recently implemented budget, may influence your decision to get term insurance.

Term insurance is essential to financial planning as it cushions families against unforeseen events. Given post-budget economic shifts, knowing how to modify your decisions in this dynamic environment is critical.  This guide aims to help you navigate these choices and select the right term insurance plan for your needs in 2024 and beyond.

Budget Highlights Relevant to Term Insurance Policies

Understanding the impact of the 2024-25 budget on the Indian insurance sector involves analysing the announcements that may influence premium prices, tax benefits, and the overall financial situation of an individual. This year’s budget includes several initiatives to increase personal savings, promote financial stability, and facilitate access to insurance coverage. Thus, some key things to look for in this budget related to term insurance policies are as follows:

• Modifications to Tax Benefits: Term insurance plans offer several tax benefits under Sections 80C, 80D and 10D. Policyholders can claim tax exemptions on premiums paid and maturity benefits obtained under certain provisions. Any changes to these budget sections could directly impact term insurance’s attractiveness.
• Economic Adjustments: Budgetary allotments for GDP growth, healthcare, and infrastructure have an impact on total disposable income, which in turn affects how much people are prepared to spend on term insurance.
• Digital Initiatives and Insurance Accessibility: The government promotes digital access to financial products, including insurance, to facilitate online policy comparison and purchase.

Advantages of Buying a Term Insurance Plan in India’s Current Economy

Buying a suitable term life insurance policy will give you the following benefits:

1.     Financial Stability for Your Loved Ones

If you are the only earning member of your family, getting a term insurance plan is a smart financial choice. It will ensure that your family is financially protected in your absence. The sum assured can cover daily expenses, clear debts, and pay for emergencies.

2.     Affordable Premiums and Premium Return Options

You can get a term insurance policy at an affordable rate. Also, the premium rates are considerably low if you are still young and healthy. Apart from low premiums, some term insurance plans allow you to add a return of premium (ROP) rider. This optional add-on benefits you by returning your premiums if you outlive the term. Moreover, a term insurance calculator can estimate your premium for a specific policy.

3.     Get a Joint Life Option

Some term insurance plans benefit you by adding your spouse to the same policy. This will give a lump sum amount to one partner if there is an untimely death of the other. With this benefit, it is possible to cover household expenses or financial responsibilities without setbacks.

4.     Simple and Flexible Plans

Term insurance plans are straightforward and flexible. This means they can be easily customised based on your needs. For instance, paying a slightly higher premium can enhance your term plan coverage by adding an optional rider, such as critical illness or accidental death.

Factors to Help You Choose the Best Term Insurance Plan

Here are some other factors which will help you choose the right policy plan:

Claim Settlement Ratio: This ratio represents the percentage of claims the insurance company has successfully settled out of the total claims received. A high claim settlement ratio indicates the insurance company has a good track record of settling claims.

Benefits on Taxes: Section 10D and Section 80C tax deductions (up to ₹1.5 lakh) are attractive aspects of term insurance policies. These deductions were maintained in the most recent budget, making term insurance a great way to reduce taxes and increase financial stability.

Options for Customising the Plan: If your financial needs change, you can easily customise an existing term insurance plan. You can adjust your coverage amount, riders, premium pay model, payout options, and premium payment frequency to meet your changing circumstances.

Final Thoughts

Post-budget, there are a few key tips to consider about term insurance. One is to increase the coverage amount as the sum you consider enough today may not be enough tomorrow when inflation pushes the costs. Also, you must take advantage of current tax laws by utilising Section 80C deductions, which can help reduce your taxable income.