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Does the net-worth value include term life insurance?
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No, term life insurance is not included in net worth as it is not a tangible asset.
Who are High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs)?
On a global level, High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) are individuals whose net worth exceeds $1 million in liquid assets. In India, HNIs are typically categorised into three groups based on their financial standing.
HNIs often require sophisticated financial solutions like estate planning, wealth preservation, and tailored term insurance plans. Ensuring proper protection of their assets through term insurance for HNIs is a cornerstone of their financial planning strategy.
Types of High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs)
Individuals with high net worth are categorised as follows:
Affluent Individuals:
With assets ranging from ₹50 lakh to ₹5 crore, they form the entry-level HNI category.
Core HNIs:
These individuals have a net worth between ₹5 crore and ₹50 crore, representing a substantial segment of the HNI population.
Ultra HNIs:
With assets exceeding ₹50 crore, they represent the top tier of wealth in India.
Each group has unique financial needs that determine the type of term insurance or life insurance plan best suited to them. If you are looking for a term insurance plan for a high net-worth individual, you may want to consider the category they can be classified under. A term insurance calculator can help you get appropriate estimates for the premium to be paid for the sum assured chosen. The sum assured may have to be chosen based on net worth value.
Why Do HNIs Need a Term Insurance Plan?
High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) have complex financial portfolios that include significant assets, investments, and liabilities. A tailored term insurance plan serves as a financial safety net for HNIs, ensuring their wealth and legacy are protected.
Key reasons for HNIs to invest in term insurance include:
Wealth Protection:
Policies like ₹1 crore term insurance, ₹2 crore term insurance, or even ₹5 crore term insurance ensure adequate financial security for family members in the event of the policyholder’s demise.
Estate Planning:
A term insurance policy helps streamline asset distribution among heirs, avoiding legal complications.
Debt Management:
Any outstanding debts, including business loans or mortgages, can be managed using the term insurance payout.
Business Continuity:
HNIs often own businesses; term insurance ensures smooth succession planning or debt settlement, safeguarding the enterprise’s future.
Tax Savings:
Premiums paid towards term insurance are tax-deductible under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, and the payout is tax-exempt under Section 10(10D).
Flexibility for Lifestyle Changes:
Term insurance in your 40s or 50s offers options to update coverage as financial priorities evolve.
For HNIs, choosing the right term insurance for HNIs ensures peace of mind while maintaining financial stability for their families and businesses.
How Term Insurance Plans Benefit HNIs
1. High Coverage Options
HNIs can choose policies like ₹50 lakh term insurance, ₹1 crore term insurance, or even ₹5 crore term insurance, providing robust financial protection.
2. Customisable Plans
Add-on riders, such as critical illness riders or accidental death benefits, offer extra layers of protection to cater to HNIs' unique needs.
3. Estate Preservation
Term insurance ensures seamless asset transfer to heirs, reducing potential disputes or financial strain during inheritance.
4. Business Protection
HNIs with business ventures can use term insurance for self-employed individuals as a financial backup for business continuity. It ensures that partners or dependents are not financially burdened in case of unforeseen events.
5. Tax Efficiency
Premiums qualify for tax deductions under Section 80C, and payouts are exempt under Section 10(10D).
6. Protection for All Stages of Life
Policies like term insurance in your 20s or 30s can lock in lower premiums, while term insurance in your 40s or 50s offers flexibility to adapt coverage to changing needs.
7. Coverage for Specific Needs
Options like family term insurance, term insurance for women, or term insurance for housewives ensure tailored solutions for HNIs' diverse requirements.
8. Global Coverage
Many policies provide worldwide coverage, ideal for HNIs with international assets or residences.
9. Liquidity for Heirs
The lump-sum payout from term insurance ensures that heirs have immediate access to funds, covering any urgent liabilities.
10. Cost-Effective Security
Compared to other financial instruments, term insurance provides high-value coverage at a relatively low cost, making it a practical choice for HNIs.
Types of Plans Best Suited to HNIs in India
Ideally, there is no single policy that can suit every HNI individual. There are a few plans that you may select from, based on your unique needs and means.
Level Term Insurance Plans:
Provides coverage for a specified duration allowing them to define their coverage duration.
Limited-Pay Term Insurance Plans:
Enables higher premium payments over a shorter period, ideal for HNIs with high liquidity.
Return of Premium Plans:
Refunds premiums paid if no claim is made during the policy term.
Customisable Rider-Enhanced Plans:
Offers critical illness, disability, and accidental death riders.
Family Term Insurance Plans:
Ensures comprehensive coverage for the entire family, including term insurance for housewives or senior citizens.
HNIs should carefully evaluate their financial priorities and liabilities to select the most suitable plan.
Why Should High Net-Worth Individuals Prefer Buying Whole Life Insurance?
Whole life insurance is a compelling option for HNIs because it provides lifelong coverage, ensuring that their family and dependents remain financially secure. It is particularly useful for estate planning, offering a guaranteed payout that can be used to cover inheritance taxes, debts, or other financial obligations.
Limited vs. Regular Premium Payment Mode
Feature | Limited Premium Payment Mode | Regular Premium Payment Mode |
Payment Duration | Shorter duration, higher premiums | Payments spread over the policy term |
Ideal For | Individuals with high liquidity | Those with steady income |
Overall Cost | Lower due to early completion | Higher due to extended tenure |
Flexibility | Less flexible | More flexible |
Financial Goals | Ideal for short-term commitments | Better for long-term planning |
Which Premium Payment Mode is Better for HNIs?
1. Limited Premium Payment Mode:
Suitable for HNIs with substantial liquidity who want to complete premium payments within a shorter timeframe. It reduces the overall cost and aligns with their wealth management goals.
2. Regular Premium Payment Mode:
This is a practical option for HNIs who prefer spreading out their premium payments, ensuring better cash flow management.
The choice depends on the individual's financial priorities, cash flow, and long-term goals. For instance, limited-payment options are ideal for those focusing on estate planning, while regular-payment options suit those planning retirement or business continuity.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Term Insurance for HNIs
1. Coverage Amount
Opt for higher sums like ₹1.5 crore term insurance or ₹2 crore term insurance for adequate protection.
2. Policy Tenure
Ensure the term aligns with long-term goals, such as children’s education or business obligations.
3. Premium Payment Options
Choose between limited and regular premium modes based on financial goals.
4. Riders
Include riders such as critical illness, disability, or accidental death for comprehensive coverage.
5. Provider Reputation
Select an insurer with a high claim settlement ratio for reliability.
6. Tax Benefits
Leverage deductions under Section 80C and exemptions under Section 10(10D).
7. Age Considerations
For younger HNIs, term insurance in your 20s or 30s ensures lower premiums, while term insurance in your 40s or 50s offers higher flexibility.
8. Customised Solutions
Explore specific options like term insurance for women, housewives, or self-employed individuals.
9. Future Adjustments
Look for plans allowing policy upgrades or increased coverage based on evolving needs.
10. Global Requirements
Ensure the policy provides international coverage if required.
Term insurance for High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) is more than just a financial product—it’s a cornerstone of effective wealth management. With high coverage options, tailored benefits, and tax advantages, term insurance ensures the security of an HNI’s family, business, and legacy. Whether you’re in your 20s or your 50s, choosing the right plan is key to aligning with your financial goals and safeguarding your future.
