Why life insurance is important
As long as you are alive and healthy, your income-producing capability is relatively secure, and you and your family can enjoy the lifestyle you have established. If you were to die, however, your family could face hard economic times. Your family’s financial needs may include:
• Final expenses, such as burial and funeral costs
• Unpaid medical bills
• Income replacement
• Mortgage balance
• Debt repayment (credit cards)
• Education fund for children
• Emergency expenses
Why life insurance may be even more important when you’re self-employed
As a sole proprietor, you are personally liable for all of the debts of your business. Legally, there is no difference between personal and business assets. By definition, a sole proprietorship ends when the owner dies. So, any losses or financial obligations at your death become the responsibility of your estate. It is possible that personal assets may have to be sold or transferred to pay off business debts. Business debts may include:
• Business loans
• Mortgage or lease payments on business location
• Payments due to suppliers, vendors, consultants, employees, and so on
• Taxes due to local, state, and federal taxing authorities
• Fees to lawyers, accountants, and other advisors to settle business affairs
Life insurance can be used to cover these debts, as well as to provide for the ongoing needs of your family after your death.
What to do about it
Ask your financial professional or insurance representative to help you assess your need for life insurance and design a program to fit your needs.
Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. Copyright 2021
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES
Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. does not provide investment, tax, legal, or retirement advice or recommendations. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances.
To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.
These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable — we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.
