Guide
Term vs. permanent life insurance
What each kind is for, what it costs, and why most families start with term.
Term life pays a fixed benefit if you die during a set period, usually 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30 years, for a level monthly payment. When the term ends, coverage stops or renews at a much higher annual cost. It's the least expensive way to buy significant protection for the years a family needs it most.
Permanent life (whole life, universal life and similar products) is designed to last your lifetime and builds cash value inside the policy. Premiums are much higher for the same death benefit, and the cash value grows slowly at first. It fits people with lifelong needs: a dependent who will always need support, estate liquidity, or a business succession plan.
How to choose
Start with need, not product. If the need has an end date—a mortgage you'll pay off, children who will graduate—term coverage aligns cleanly. If the need doesn't end, permanent coverage or a convertible term might fit. Most carriers allow converting term to permanent without new underwriting during a window; your quote shows each carrier's conversion terms.
What people in Daly City often do
A tested approach is a 20 or 30 year term sized to your household's real obligations, reviewed when your situation changes. This keeps the premium affordable so you can protect what matters. Susman Insurance Agency can discuss permanent options if your picture includes lifelong obligations.