Published Oct 8, 2025 3 mins read

Introduction

Term insurance is one of the most effective ways to secure your family’s financial future in case of unforeseen circumstances. With so many options available, finding the right term insurance plan can be overwhelming. But worry not—this guide breaks down the process into seven simple steps to help you choose the ideal coverage tailored to your needs.


Whether you are looking to protect your loved ones or ensure peace of mind, these actionable tips will empower you to make an informed decision. Let us explore how you can find the most suitable term insurance plan for you.


Why is finding the right plan important?


Choosing the right term insurance plan is more than just buying a policy; it is about safeguarding your loved ones’ financial future. The primary purpose of term insurance is to provide a death benefit to your family in case of your untimely demise. This ensures that they can maintain their lifestyle, handle daily expenses, and achieve long-term goals like education and homeownership without financial stress.


One of the key concepts to understand is Human Life Value (HLV). HLV represents the financial worth of an individual based on their income, expenses, and liabilities. Selecting a term plan that matches your HLV ensures that your family receives adequate coverage to replace your lost income and meet their needs.

Moreover, term insurance offers peace of mind, knowing that your family is financially protected against uncertainties. By comparing plans and choosing wisely, you can enjoy benefits like affordable premiums, tax savings under Section 80C and 10(10D), and flexible payment schedules.


Start by assessing your financial needs and goals. This will help you determine the sum assured and tenure required for your term insurance plan.

Step-by-step tips for comparing term insurance

Finding the right term insurance plan requires a systematic approach. Follow these seven steps to compare term insurance and choose a suitable policy:


1. Understand your coverage needs


Begin by calculating the sum assured required to protect your family’s financial future. Consider factors like your income, liabilities, and future expenses (e.g., children’s education and marriage). Use a life insurance premium calculator to determine the premium for your desired coverage.


2. Choose the right policy tenure


The tenure of your term insurance should align with your financial responsibilities. For instance, if your youngest child is 10 years old, you may want a policy that lasts until they turn 25.


3. Compare premiums and benefits


Premiums can vary significantly across insurers. Compare plans based on affordability and benefits offered. Look for policies that provide maximum coverage at budget-friendly rates.


Discover affordable plans tailored to your needs → Compare plans and get quote now!


4. Evaluate riders for added protection


Riders like critical illness cover, accidental death cover, and waiver of premium can enhance your policy. Assess your specific needs and choose riders that offer comprehensive protection.


5. Check the claim settlement ratio


The claim settlement ratio (CSR) indicates the percentage of claims an insurer settles successfully. A higher CSR reflects the insurer’s reliability. Aim for providers with a CSR above 95%.


6. Review policy terms and conditions


Carefully read the fine print to understand exclusions, waiting periods, and other terms. This ensures there are no surprises during claim settlement.


7. Explore online comparison tools


Online platforms allow you to compare policies side-by-side, saving time and effort. Use trusted websites to evaluate plans based on premiums, benefits, and insurer credibility.

Key factor to consider: Analysing the premiums and coverages offered

Premiums and coverage are critical factors when selecting a term insurance plan. Here is how you can analyse them effectively:


Premiums


Premiums depend on factors like your age, sum assured, policy tenure, and health. Younger individuals typically enjoy lower premiums, as they are considered less risky by insurers. For example, a 30-year-old non-smoker may pay significantly less than a 45-year-old smoker for the same coverage.


Flexible payment options, such as monthly, quarterly, or annual premiums, make term insurance accessible to all. Some plans even offer discounts for higher sum assured values.

 

Coverage


Ensure that the coverage amount is sufficient to replace your income and meet your family’s financial needs. Policies with higher coverage may have slightly higher premiums, but they provide enhanced protection.


Tip: Balance affordability with adequate coverage. Use a term insurance calculator to find plans that fit your budget.

How do you evaluate the insurer's credibility?

Choosing a credible insurer is vital to ensure smooth claim processes and long-term reliability. Here are key factors to consider:


  • Claim settlement ratio (CSR)


The CSR reflects the percentage of claims an insurer settles annually. A high CSR (above 95%) indicates the insurer’s commitment to honouring claims.


  • IRDAI certification


Check if the insurer is certified by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). This guarantees that the provider operates within legal and ethical frameworks.


  • Customer reviews


Online reviews and ratings can provide insights into the insurer’s service quality. Look for feedback on claim settlement speed, customer support, and overall satisfaction.


Secure your plan with a trusted insurance provider—compare life insurance plans and get quote!


How to finalise the ideal term plan for you?


After comparing plans and evaluating insurers, follow these steps to finalise your term insurance policy:


Step 1: Prioritise your needs


Choose a plan that aligns with your financial goals, affordability, and family requirements.


Step 2: Customise your policy


Add riders to enhance your coverage. For instance, a critical illness rider can provide financial support during medical emergencies.


Step 3: Verify policy details


Double-check the sum assured, tenure, premium payment schedule, and exclusions before purchasing.


Step 4: Make an informed purchase


Use online platforms to buy your term insurance policy. They offer convenience, transparency, and quick comparisons.


Compare and finalise your term plan today—secure your family’s future – get quote!


Conclusion


Finding the right term insurance plan does not have to be complicated. By following these seven steps, you can compare policies, evaluate insurers, and choose a plan that secures your family’s future. Remember, the ideal term insurance plan is one that balances affordability, coverage, and reliability.

Frequently asked questions

What should I check before buying term insurance?

Before buying term insurance, ensure you assess your coverage needs, policy tenure, premium affordability, and insurer credibility. Check the claim settlement ratio, policy exclusions, and riders to make an informed decision.

Is online comparison useful for term plans?

Yes, online comparison tools are highly effective for evaluating term plans. They allow you to compare premiums, benefits, and insurer ratings side-by-side, saving time and effort.

Do I need riders with term insurance?

Riders like critical illness cover and accidental death benefit provide additional protection. Depending on your needs, they can enhance your policy and offer comprehensive coverage.

How to assess insurer's claim ratio?

The claim settlement ratio indicates the percentage of claims an insurer settles annually. Look for providers with a CSR above 95% for reliability.

What’s the role of age in term insurance premium?

Age significantly impacts term insurance premiums. Younger individuals typically pay lower premiums, as they pose less risk to insurers.

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Disclaimer

*T&C Apply - Bajaj Finance Limited (‘BFL’) is a registered corporate agent of third party insurance products of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited, SBI General Insurance Company Limited, ACKO General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited, New India Assurance Limited, Chola MS General Insurance Company Limited, Zurich Kotak General Insurance Company Limited, Star Health & Allied Insurance Company Limited, Care Health Insurance Company Limited, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited, Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited and Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company Limited under the IRDAI composite registration number CA0101. Please note that, BFL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. Your purchase of an insurance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any insurance product. Any decision to purchase insurance product is solely at your own risk and responsibility and BFL shall not be liable for any loss or damage that any person may suffer, whether directly or indirectly. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure & policy wordings carefully before concluding a sale. Tax benefits applicable if any, will be as per the prevailing tax laws. Tax laws are subject to change. BFL does NOT provide Tax/Investment advisory services. Please consult your advisors before proceeding to purchase an insurance product. Visitors are hereby informed that their information submitted on the website may also be shared with insurers. BFL is also distributor of other third-party products from Assistance service providers such as CPP Assistance Services Private Limited, Bajaj Finserv Health Limited. etc. All product information such as premium, benefits, exclusions, value added services etc. are authentic and solely based on the information received from the respective Insurance company or the respective Assistance provider company.

Note - While we have made all the efforts and taken utmost care in gathering precise information about the products, features, benefits etc. However, BFL cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damage/loss. We request our customers to conduct their research about these products and refer to the respective products sales brochure and policy/membership wordings before concluding sales.