Guide
Term vs. permanent life insurance
What each kind is for, what it costs, and why most families start with term.
Term life provides a fixed payout if you pass away within a set number of years (typically 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30), at a fixed monthly cost. After the term expires, coverage ends or converts to much higher rates. It's the cheapest way to buy serious protection during your family's most vulnerable years.
Permanent coverage (whole life, universal life, and others) is meant to last your whole life and accumulates a cash value. It costs much more per month than term for the same death benefit, and the value grows slowly at first. It works for people whose support needs won't end: a disabled family member, estate planning, or passing business interests smoothly to heirs.
How to choose
Begin with the problem you're solving, not the product type. If there's an end point—the mortgage gets paid in 15 years, the kids graduate in 20—term life aligns perfectly. For needs that don't end, permanent insurance or a convertible term might be right. Many carriers allow term-to-permanent conversion without re-underwriting during a conversion window; the quotes here show each carrier's terms.
What people in Pittsburg often do
Many people pick a 20- or 30-year term matched to their actual needs—then review it if life changes. This approach keeps costs low enough to buy enough protection today, which is what counts. If you later discover a permanent need, Susman Insurance Agency can help you explore those options.