Life Insurance Awareness Month: Why Now Is the Time to Review Your Plan

September marks Life Insurance Awareness Month—a timely reminder to consider how life insurance fits into your retirement plan and overall financial strategy. Life insurance is more than a safety net for families with young children. For retirees and pre-retirees, it’s a versatile tool that can provide income protection, cover final expenses, and even support legacy planning.

Even if you already have a policy, Life Insurance Awareness Month is an excellent opportunity to review your coverage, ensure it still meets your needs, and make any necessary adjustments.

The Importance of Life Insurance

Life insurance serves multiple purposes, even in retirement:

  • Protect Your Spouse: If one spouse passes away, life insurance can replace lost income, helping the surviving spouse maintain their lifestyle.

  • Cover Final Expenses: Funeral costs, medical bills, and outstanding debts can quickly deplete savings if life insurance isn’t in place.

  • Leave a Legacy: Life insurance can provide a financial gift to children, grandchildren, or charitable organizations, creating a lasting impact.

  • Support Long-Term Goals: Certain policies, such as permanent life insurance, may accumulate cash value over time, which can supplement retirement income if used strategically.

Life insurance is a tool that goes beyond financial protection—it provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Why Reviewing Your Life Insurance Plan Matters

Life changes, and so do your financial needs. A review ensures your policy continues to align with your goals and family situation. Consider these key factors when reviewing your coverage:

  • Life Events: Marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or retirements can all affect your coverage needs.

  • Financial Changes: Significant increases or decreases in savings, retirement accounts, or debts may require adjusting your policy.

  • Beneficiary Updates: Ensure beneficiaries are current and reflect your intentions, particularly after life changes.

  • Policy Type and Features: Review whether term, permanent, or other policy types best meet your current goals. Riders, such as long-term care or accelerated benefits, may also be worth considering.

Regular reviews help prevent gaps in coverage, overpaying for unnecessary protection, or leaving your family unprepared.

How a Retirement Planner Can Help

Navigating life insurance in retirement can be complex. A retirement planner can help you:

  • Assess your current and future needs

  • Determine the right type and amount of coverage

  • Coordinate life insurance with other retirement income sources

  • Ensure your policy supports both financial security and legacy goals

With professional guidance, you can be confident that your life insurance plan is working effectively for you and your loved ones.

Take Action This Life Insurance Awareness Month

Life Insurance Awareness Month is the perfect time to reflect on your coverage, review your policy, and make informed decisions. Don’t wait until a life event forces you to act—proactive planning ensures your loved ones are protected, your financial goals are supported, and your legacy is preserved.

At Sound Retirement Solutions, our retirement planners help retirees and pre-retirees review life insurance policies, adjust coverage as needed, and integrate protection into a comprehensive retirement strategy. Contact us today to ensure your life insurance plan is up to date and working for you.

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Myth-Buster: “I Don’t Need Life Insurance After Retirement”

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Keeping Your Estate Plan Up to Date: When and Why