Term and IUL solve different needs. One is pure, low-cost protection for a season of life; the other is permanent coverage that also builds an asset.
Term life: simple and affordable
Term covers you for a set period (e.g., 10–30 years) at a low premium and pays a death benefit if you pass during the term. It builds no cash value and ends when the term does.
IUL: permanent, with cash value
An IUL never expires (when funded), builds cash value with a 0% floor, and offers tax-advantaged access to that value. It costs more because it does more.
Many people use both
A common approach: a large term policy for temporary needs (income replacement while raising kids or paying a mortgage) plus a smaller IUL for permanent coverage and cash-value growth. The right mix is a suitability question.
Is term or IUL cheaper? +
Term is far cheaper per dollar of death benefit because it's temporary and builds no cash value. An IUL costs more because it's permanent and accumulates cash value.
Can I convert term to an IUL? +
Many term policies include a conversion option to a permanent policy without a new medical exam. Check your policy's conversion terms and deadlines.
Should I buy term and invest the difference? +
It's one valid strategy. An IUL offers something a brokerage doesn't — a 0% floor and tax-advantaged access — so the best choice depends on your goals.