What is Paid-Up Additional Insurance and How Does It Work?

Definition & Meaning

Paid-up additional insurance is a type of life insurance option that allows policyholders to use dividends or additional premiums to purchase extra coverage on their existing policy. This additional insurance is based on the policyholder's age at the time of purchase and does not require further premium payments once acquired. It enhances the overall death benefit of the policy without the need for ongoing contributions.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A policyholder has a whole life insurance policy that earns dividends. They decide to use these dividends to purchase paid-up additional insurance, increasing their death benefit without needing to pay additional premiums.

Example 2: A 50-year-old policyholder opts to buy paid-up additional insurance using their accumulated dividends, resulting in a higher payout for their beneficiaries upon their passing. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Notes
California Allows for flexible use of dividends for additional insurance.
New York Regulations may require specific disclosures regarding paid-up options.
Texas Offers similar options but may have different tax implications for dividends.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Description Difference
Whole Life Insurance A permanent life insurance policy that provides coverage for the insured's entire life. Paid-up additional insurance is an enhancement to an existing whole life policy.
Term Life Insurance A life insurance policy that provides coverage for a specified term. Paid-up additional insurance is not available with term policies as they do not accumulate cash value.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering paid-up additional insurance, review your current policy to understand your dividend options. Consult with your insurance agent to determine how much additional coverage you can purchase and the implications for your overall policy. For assistance, you can explore US Legal Forms' templates to help you navigate the process effectively. If your situation is complex, seeking advice from a legal professional may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Type: Life insurance option
  • Payment: No additional premiums required after purchase
  • Determining factor: Insured's age at purchase
  • Benefits: Increases death benefit without ongoing costs

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is a life insurance option that allows policyholders to use dividends to buy extra coverage without additional premium payments.