Term Insurance Policy for Disabled People

People with disability can buy term life insurance. It can be a smart option for anyone looking to secure a financial future. Despite its many benefits, a large section of the population in our country, especially those with disabilities don’t avail of term insurance plan because most people assume that they have to be perfectly healthy to be able to avail of it or they don’t want to pay higher premiums.

However, life insurance companies evaluate different types of disabilities and process the term plan application accordingly.

Can a Disabled Person Buy a Term Insurance Policy?

Yes, disabled people are eligible to buy term insurance plans.

The plan is crucial for individuals with disabilities as it helps secure their family’s future and the financial requirements of a disabled person are more complex, owing to the necessary funds needed for medical check-ups, bills, and more. Therefore, having adequate financial resources is vital for individuals with disabilities to lead a comfortable life.

Benefits of Term Insurance for a Disabled Person

Financial Security for the Family

A term insurance plan provides a lump sum payment to the nominee if you pass away. It provides financial security to your family or dependents relying on your income.

There are a few life insurance policies that offer a steady income benefit in case the policyholder survives the policy term. The steady income benefit offers the policyholder peace of mind and financial security during times of need.

iSelect Smart360 Term Plan offers life cover, steady income benefit, an option to add a spouse to the same policy, coverage against 40 listed critical illnesses, and an option to block your premium rate for 5 years during which you can increase the base sum assured by up to 100%.

Financial Support for Medical Expenses

Living with a disability can be expensive, as it often involves regular visits to the hospital for assessment and treatment of the condition. These expenses add up quickly. Term insurance for disabled persons can help the insured meet these costs if the base plan is supplemented by additional riders.

Tax Benefits

Disabled persons can enjoy tax savings by buying term insurance under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. The premium is deductible up to ₹1.5 lakhs. Additionally, the death benefits received by the nominee or beneficiary of the disabled person are also not taxable, owing to the provisions of section 10 (10D) of the Income Tax Act.

Factors to Consider before Buying a Term Insurance for People with Disability

Insurers include certain special clauses for disabled persons, due to the higher degree of risk involved. So, people with disability need to understand the terms and conditions associated with the coverage while buying a plan.

Consider the three major things while buying a term insurance policy:

1. The Cover Offered

You need to ensure that the cover offered is adequate to help your beneficiaries through the financial crisis that may occur in your absence. Check the sum assured and calculate if it's enough to cover the annual expenses of your dependents.

Evaluate your options by comparing quotes from multiple life insurers to find the best deal.

2. The Premium Payable

The premium payable in term insurance for disabled persons is generally higher than the regular premium. Nevertheless, ensure that the premium you need to pay is within your budget, so you reduce the risk of defaulting on the payment. You have the option to spread the payments over months, quarters, or years, so choose carefully after assessing your financial horizon.

3. Available In-Built Covers

Term insurance often comes with additional in-built covers such as accidental death benefit coverage, waiver of premium riders, or critical illness benefit. For people with disabilities, adding optional covers can prove to be useful. The additional covers will enhance your base term plan by offering you more benefits during the policy term.

However, the additional covers will impact the premiums you pay. Hence, choose the covers as per your financial goals and needs.

While people with disabilities can buy term insurance plans, it is important to carefully consider the coverage offered by the insurer to ensure that it adequately meet your needs.

Due to lack of social security in India, disable people should buy the right term plan to ensure their financial stability. Pay the premiums regular to enjoy the benefits of the plan throughout. Also, choose a life insurance company that is reliable and trustworthy and has a high claim settlement ratio. Higher the claim settlement ratio, easier it will be for your beneficiaries to get the benefits of the plan in your absence.