Retirement changes why you carry life insurance. The mortgage may be smaller, the kids independent — but new roles emerge: legacy, estate efficiency, and supplemental income. Here are your options.
If you have term life
Many term policies expire around retirement. You can let it lapse if the need is gone, renew it (at a higher rate), or use a conversion option to move to permanent coverage without a new medical exam.
If you have permanent coverage
A funded whole life or IUL policy can keep providing a death benefit while its cash value supplements income through tax-advantaged loans, helping you manage taxes and market risk in retirement.
Make a deliberate choice
Review coverage 5–10 years before retirement so conversions and funding decisions are still available. This is the kind of review built into The SHIELD Protocol.
Should I keep life insurance in retirement? +
Often yes — for legacy, estate efficiency, final expenses, or to protect a surviving spouse's income. Permanent coverage can also supply tax-advantaged income.
Can I convert term to permanent at retirement? +
Many term policies include a conversion rider with a deadline (often a certain age). Check yours before it expires — conversion usually skips a new medical exam.
Can I use my policy for retirement income? +
A funded permanent policy's cash value can be accessed via tax-advantaged loans under current law, reducing the death benefit if unpaid.