Life Insurance Awareness Month: How to Get Covered

Last Updated on: May 7th, 2025

Reviewed by Kyle Wilson

Life Insurance Awareness Month

Life is unpredictable — but your family’s future doesn’t have to be. Every September, Life Insurance Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder to take control of your financial protection. Whether you’re just starting your career, raising a family, or planning retirement, life insurance is a critical step toward long-term security. Yet, millions of Americans remain uninsured or underinsured. This campaign isn’t just about policies — it’s about peace of mind.

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What Is Life Insurance Awareness Month?

Life Insurance Awareness Month is a national campaign held each year to educate individuals and families about the value and importance of life insurance. Despite its critical role in financial planning, many people delay or overlook getting coverage. This awareness month aims to change that by promoting informed decisions and encouraging Americans to take action in protecting their loved ones.

Who Created It and Why?

Life Insurance Awareness Month was launched in 2004 by Life Happens, a nonprofit organization focused on educating the public about life insurance and related products. The campaign was created in response to a growing number of Americans living without any form of life insurance — leaving families vulnerable in the event of an unexpected loss.

The goal was simple but powerful: increase awareness, dispel myths, and help people understand that life insurance is not just for the wealthy or elderly — it’s for anyone who wants to ensure financial stability for their family.

When Is Life Insurance Awareness Month Observed?

Life Insurance Awareness Month is observed every September across the United States. This timing allows for a focused, national push during the fall, as families often reassess their financial goals and prepare for the end of the year. During this month, insurers, agents, and advocacy groups share resources, host events, and encourage open conversations about the need for life insurance coverage.

The Role of Life Happens and Other Organizations

Life Happens plays a leading role in organizing and promoting Life Insurance Awareness Month. They provide free educational materials, videos, real-life stories, and planning tools designed to help consumers understand how life insurance works and why it matters. The organization partners with insurance companies, financial advisors, and media outlets to amplify its message nationwide.

Other contributors — such as the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and various life insurance providers — also support the campaign by spreading awareness and encouraging policyholders to review or update their coverage. Together, these efforts help make life insurance more accessible and less intimidating for individuals and families across the country.

Why Life Insurance Matters More Than Ever

In today’s uncertain world, the importance of life insurance has never been clearer. With rising living costs, mounting debt, and the unpredictability of health and income, families need more than just hope to secure their future — they need a plan. Life insurance is that plan. It provides a financial safety net that ensures your loved ones can carry on without the burden of financial strain if something unexpected happens to you.

Protecting Your Family Financially

The core purpose of life insurance is to provide financial protection for those who depend on you. If you pass away, a life insurance policy can help your family:

  • Pay off debts like a mortgage, car loans, or credit cards
  • Cover everyday expenses like groceries, rent, and utilities
  • Fund your children’s education
  • Replace lost income
  • Handle funeral and medical costs

Without life insurance, many families are forced to make difficult financial decisions during an already painful time. This is why having even a basic policy in place can make all the difference.

Life Insurance as Part of Smart Financial Planning

Life insurance isn’t just for emergencies — it’s a key element of a well-rounded financial strategy. In addition to protecting your family, certain policies (like whole life insurance) offer long-term benefits such as cash value growth, borrowing options, and tax advantages.

Smart financial planning involves preparing for the expected and the unexpected. By including life insurance in your strategy, you’re ensuring your legacy is preserved and your loved ones are supported, no matter what lies ahead.

Common Misconceptions About Life Insurance

Many people delay getting life insurance because of common myths that aren’t true. Let’s clear up a few:

  • “It’s too expensive.” In reality, term life insurance is often more affordable than people think — sometimes less than a dollar a day.
  • “I’m young and healthy, I don’t need it yet.” Getting covered early can lock in lower rates and ensure protection while you’re building your future.
  • “I have life insurance through work, that’s enough.” Employer-provided policies are usually limited and may not follow you if you change jobs.
  • “It’s complicated.” Today, getting life insurance is faster and easier than ever, with online applications and simplified underwriting.

Understanding the facts helps you make informed decisions and ensures your family’s financial future is secure.

Why Life Insurance Matters More Than Ever

Types of Life Insurance Policies

When it comes to life insurance, one size doesn’t fit all. Understanding the different types of policies can help you choose the right coverage for your lifestyle, goals, and budget. The two most common types are term life insurance and whole life insurance — each with its own benefits and considerations.

Term Life Insurance

Term life insurance is one of the most straightforward and affordable options available. It provides coverage for a specific period, usually 10, 20, or 30 years. If the insured person passes away during that time, the beneficiaries receive a tax-free payout.

Key features:

  • Lower premiums compared to whole life
  • Ideal for temporary needs like paying off a mortgage or raising children
  • No cash value — it’s pure protection

This is a popular choice for younger adults, new parents, and anyone looking for high coverage at a manageable cost.

Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance is a type of permanent coverage that lasts for the insured’s entire life, as long as premiums are paid. In addition to the death benefit, it also builds cash value over time, which can be borrowed against or withdrawn.

Key features:

  • Guaranteed lifetime coverage
  • Fixed premiums that never increase
  • Builds savings through cash value accumulation
  • More expensive than term policies

Whole life insurance can be a good option for those seeking lifelong protection, estate planning tools, or a policy that functions like a financial asset.

Which Policy Is Right for You?

Choosing the right life insurance policy depends on your financial goals, family needs, and personal preferences. Ask yourself:

  • Do you need coverage for a specific period or for life?
  • Is affordability more important now, or are you planning for long-term financial stability?
  • Are you interested in building cash value alongside your coverage?

For many, term life insurance is a smart and affordable place to start. Others may benefit from the lasting protection and financial features of a whole life policy. Some people even choose a combination of both to meet different needs.

How to Get Life Insurance

Getting life insurance doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re buying your first policy or reviewing your current coverage, the process can be simple and stress-free when you know what to expect. From choosing the right provider to deciding how to apply, here’s what you need to know.

Choosing a Life Insurance Provider

Start by researching and comparing reputable life insurance companies. Look for providers with:

  • Strong financial strength ratings (such as A.M. Best, Moody’s, or S&P)
  • Positive customer reviews and support services
  • A clear claims process and flexible policy options

You should also compare premiums, coverage limits, and optional add-ons (like riders for disability or critical illness). Some of the best-known insurers in the U.S. include Prudential, Mutual of Omaha, New York Life, and Haven Life — but always look beyond brand names and focus on your personal needs.

Working with a Financial Advisor

A licensed financial advisor or insurance agent can help you make informed decisions and find the right policy for your situation. They’ll assess your income, family responsibilities, debt, and future goals to recommend coverage that fits your lifestyle.

Advisors can also explain the fine print, help you compare policies across providers, and ensure you’re not overpaying or underinsured. If you’re unsure where to start, an advisor can offer clarity and confidence in your choice.

Buying Life Insurance Online vs. In-Person

Today’s technology makes it easier than ever to buy life insurance online — often without a medical exam. Many providers offer fast, secure applications that you can complete from home, with instant quotes and quick approval.

Online advantages:

  • Convenient and quick process
  • Transparent pricing and easy comparisons
  • No-pressure environment

In-person advantages:

  • Personalized guidance from an agent
  • Better for complex needs or larger policies
  • More opportunity to ask detailed questions

Both methods are valid. The right one depends on how much support you want and how complex your coverage needs are. For straightforward term life policies, many people now choose the convenience of online applications.

How to Get Life Insurance

Life Insurance Awareness Month Campaigns and Resources

Life Insurance Awareness Month isn’t just about highlighting the need for coverage — it’s also about action. Each year, national campaigns and tools help individuals, families, and professionals better understand life insurance and how to make informed choices. Whether you’re exploring coverage for the first time or looking to help others, there are many free resources available.

National Campaigns and Educational Tools

Life Insurance Awareness Month features nationwide campaigns that aim to educate and inspire. These often include:

  • Personal stories from real families affected by the presence or absence of life insurance
  • Celebrity spokespeople sharing their reasons for getting covered
  • Digital campaigns on social media, television, and radio
  • Webinars and workshops led by financial professionals

The goal of these campaigns is to break down complex topics and deliver clear, relatable information. They help make life insurance accessible — not intimidating.

Free Resources from Life Happens

The nonprofit Life Happens is the driving force behind Life Insurance Awareness Month and offers a wide range of free educational materials for the public. These include:

  • Life insurance calculators to estimate your coverage needs
  • Printable guides and fact sheets
  • Short videos explaining different policy types
  • Real-life testimonials from families impacted by life insurance
  • Social media toolkits for sharing awareness

These resources are designed to make it easier for individuals to understand their options and take the first step toward protecting their families.

How to Participate and Spread Awareness

You don’t have to be a professional to make a difference during Life Insurance Awareness Month. Here’s how you can get involved:

  • Review your own policy or explore getting coverage if you don’t have any
  • Share educational content from trusted sources like Life Happens
  • Talk to family and friends about the importance of financial planning
  • Join social media campaigns using hashtags like #GetLifeInsurance or #LIAM
  • Attend local events or webinars hosted by insurance companies or financial advisors

Spreading awareness can help others avoid the hardship of being uninsured and encourage smart financial decisions that last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Life Insurance Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder of how important it is to protect what matters most — your family’s future. Whether you’re just starting to explore life insurance or reevaluating existing coverage, this is the perfect time to take action. Life insurance isn’t just a policy — it’s peace of mind, financial protection, and a lasting act of love.

FAQs

Life insurance provides a financial safety net for your loved ones in the event of your death. It can help pay for funeral costs, cover outstanding debts, replace lost income, and ensure your family’s financial stability during a difficult time. It’s a key part of smart financial planning and a way to protect your legacy.

Term life insurance offers coverage for a set number of years (like 10, 20, or 30) and is usually more affordable. Whole life insurance lasts your entire life and builds cash value over time but comes with higher premiums. Term is great for temporary needs, while whole life is better for long-term planning and wealth building.

Yes, many people with pre-existing conditions can still qualify for life insurance, though options and pricing may vary. Some providers specialize in high-risk applicants or offer simplified issue policies that don’t require a medical exam. It’s important to compare offers and speak with an agent who understands your health background to find the best fit.

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Senior Writer & Licensed Life Insurance Agent

Iqra is a dynamic and insightful senior writer with a passion for life insurance and financial planning. With over 8 years of hands-on experience in the insurance industry, Iqra has earned a reputation for delivering clear, actionable advice that empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their financial future. At Burial Senior Insurance, she not only excels as a licensed insurance agent but also as a trusted guide who has successfully advised over +1500 clients, helping them navigate the often complex world of life insurance and annuities. Her articles have been featured in top-tier financial publications, making her a respected voice in the industry.

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