Life Insurance

Survivorship Life Insurance (Second-to-Die)

Survivorship life insurance policies insure the lives of two people, typically a husband and a wife. Death benefits are paid to the beneficiary upon the death of the second insured. These policies are usually available as either universal life insurance or whole life insurance and premiums are often less expensive than buying two separate policies.

Wealthy individuals often use this class of policy in estate planning. The proceeds upon death can be used to help pay for estate taxes. Through the use of highly complicated gifting practices and third party ownership, this type of policy can accomplish many estate planning needs. With careful planning and assistance from your tax and legal advisors, a properly structured survivorship life insurance policy can help preserve your net worth.