What questions should a first-time life insurance buyer ask their agent?

Question

Philip Santucci · Accepted Answer

How long have you been in the life insurance space? Are you captive or independent? What type of life insurance products do you sell? How many clients do you currently help? What is your philosophy on life insurance coverage?

Answered by Philip Santucci on June 17, 2026

Broker Licensed in IL, FL, MI, MN & TX

Answered by Philip Santucci Life Insurance Agent

Taylor Langlois · Answer

First-time buyers should come in with a few key questions. Start with how much coverage you actually need based on your income, debts, and dependents, that drives everything else. We use out own equation in case you need assistance with that. From there, ask whether term or permanent insurance makes more sense for your situation, what the premiums look like, and whether a medical exam is required. Don't forget to ask as well about available riders as well; some policies have neat ones like "return-of-premium" if you want them.

Answered by Taylor Langlois on June 17, 2026

Agent Licensed in KS

Answered by Taylor Langlois Life Insurance Agent

Bill Sandefur · Answer

How long have you been in the business what companies do you represent are you my personal dedicated agent or do I call an 800 number if I have a problem are you local to my area do you know people that I know I mean there are probably 100 questions that one could ask but the main one to begin with would be what is your name. New agents nowadays are scared to death to even speak to a person online much less shake their hands smile of them and say hello face to face

Answered by Bill Sandefur on June 22, 2026

Agent Licensed in GA

Answered by Bill Sandefur Life Insurance Agent

Jim Mentink · Answer

Are you an independent or captive agent?  (Put another way, do you represent me or the agency?)
How long is my premium good for?  (Should be expressed proactively; but if not, a good question).
How can I change beneficiaries?
Are there any risks with this policy?
How much coverage do I need?
Do I actually need life insurance?
What happens if I miss a payment?

Another good question to ask independent agents is if you're getting the best benefit for the price.  Many agents will lead with a particular carrier because they have a good reputation, competitive pricing, or their organization has a long relationship with them--things like that.  It's okay to ask for another carrier's price and ask them to compare the benefits of each.

Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF · Answer

How long have you been in business and are you an independent agent. As well as how many carriers do you represent?

Tim Cassidy · Answer

Your questions can depend on your age, health, goals, needs and monthly budget.
Examples;  If you want to use your cash value for tax-free income later in life, you can ask questions about the IUL. If you want the lowest cost of insurance to cover a mortgage, you can ask questions about Term. Lastly, regardless of age and if you are healthy or have health challenges, you can ask questions about Whole Life.

Dean Chiapetto · Answer

What type of policy is this? Is Term or permanent? How long is the Term? Can I convert this term policy to whole life? For permanent insurance, is it whole life or universal life. If it is universal life you need to know what type, universal life, indexed or variable. Make sure to seek out a local broker to explain this to you.
Brokers make a difference.

Joe Zanni · Answer

1. How much life insurance do I actually need?
Ask the agent to explain the amount based on your income, mortgage, debts, children, spouse, final expenses, and future goals.

2. What would this policy protect?
For example: income replacement, mortgage protection, funeral costs, children’s education, debt payoff, or leaving money to family.

Clifford Moss · Answer

Here are three good ones to start with: What type of insurance is the policy.  Will the premiums ever increase. How do I update my beneficiaries.

Moishe Zirkind · Answer

How much life insurance do I actually need?

Ask the agent to explain the calculation, considering:

Income replacement
Mortgage and other debts
Children's education
Final expenses
Existing assets and insurance

Norma Reynoso · Answer

How much coverage do I actually need?
What is the difference between term and permanent/whole life for my situation?

Dina Todd · Answer

First time buyers should ask their agent if they do consultations on types of coverages that are available. They should also ask what coverages are appropriate for their needs.

Mark Bilgere · Answer

First, ask if your agent is able to write for multiple carriers. Different carriers may have not only different pricing, but different underwriting requirements. One carrier may view a recent health condition differently than another. If your agent can only write policies for one carrier, you may pay more for a policy or even be declined for a policy that may have been approved at a lower price with a different company.

Answered by Mark Bilgere on May 6, 2026

Agent Licensed in TX, IA, IN & 6 other states

Answered by Mark Bilgere Life Insurance Agent

Shane Bullock · Answer

Ask them about their process. A good agent will be able to speak about how they determine need and why they pick certain plans over others.

Tamekia Mckinnie · Answer

How long will this last!? Term ends at a term, so how much will I pay if I want to extend ? If I want to increase, how do I do that? Does this increase in value ? Does this go up in price over the years?

Answered by Tamekia Mckinnie on June 17, 2026

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Tamekia Mckinnie Life Insurance Agent

Amber King · Answer

What type of life insurance options do you have? 
What happens if I have a life change like marriage/divorce/adoption/birth of children? 
What happens if I get in a bind and can't pay my premium, what happens next?
When can I make changes?
How much life insurance do I need and how do I get it to fit my budget?

Annelies Van Schie · Answer

You should ask the agent if they are a broker or captive agent? 
Do they sell life-insurance plans from multiple insurance companies or only from one. Ask what are key reasons of proposing one life insurance plan from another. 
Do they only sell term-life or also whole life insurance plan?
How about plans that has coverage for Long-Term Care and/or critical illness coverage.

They should be able to give a little insight confidently without too much detail, so you have a better understanding that they can provide different options that you might want to consider.

Allen McGirl · Answer

1. How much coverage do I actually need?
Not what your neighbor has. Not some random number online. Ask what makes sense for your family, income, mortgage, kids, debt, and future plans.

2. What happens if my health changes later?
This is a big one people don’t think about. Ask if your policy can grow with you or if you can convert it later without jumping through medical hoops.

3. What’s the difference between term and permanent life insurance… in plain English?
A good agent should be able to explain it without making your eyes glaze over.

4. What will this actually cost me long term?
Not just the shiny monthly payment today. Ask if rates stay the same or if they change later.

5. What doesn’t this policy cover?
Nobody likes surprises. Better to ask upfront than assume everything is covered.

6. If something happened to me, how easy is the claims process for my family?
This one matters. The whole point is helping the people you love when life gets hard.

7. Would you recommend this if I were your family member?
You can tell a lot by how someone answers that question.

Alyson Collins · Answer

First-time life insurance buyers should ask how much coverage they need to protect their family, which type of policy best fits their goals, and what the monthly premium will be. It's also important to understand the underwriting process, whether the policy includes living benefits, and if the coverage and premiums are guaranteed for the life of the policy.

Answered by Alyson Collins on June 17, 2026

Agent Licensed in TX, AR, FL & KS, LA, NM & OK

Answered by Alyson Collins Life Insurance Agent

Michael Andrews · Answer

I would ask them what their personal philosophy on life insurance is in general? I would ask what would I need for my needs

Ronnie Robinson Jr · Answer

How long will the policy premiums stay level? Does the policy include living benefits to be used while you are living, and if something terminal, critical, or chronic happens to you, can you file a claim for access to the death benefits?

Answered by Ronnie Robinson Jr on July 17, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Ronnie Robinson Jr Life Insurance Agent

Juliette Chihade · Answer

After presenting the agent with facts about the need for life insurance, a buyer should ask
what is the agent recommendation and why.
Do represent one Insurance Company or several and what are the ratings?

Kris Moen · Answer

One of the biggest mistakes first-time life insurance buyers make is focusing only on the monthly price instead of understanding what the policy is actually designed to do.
A few important questions to ask your agent:


How much coverage do I really need?


What’s the difference between term and permanent life insurance?


What happens if my health changes later?


Can this policy be adjusted as my life changes?


What riders or extra benefits should I consider?


Life insurance isn’t just about finding the cheapest option — it’s about protecting your family, income, business, or future goals the right way.

Joshua Price · Answer

A first time life insurance buyer should ask his or her agent 2 questions are as follows:

1) Are you a licensed agent?- The reason for this question is to make sure that they are licensed and that they are qualified to serve you.

2) Are you a captive agent or an independent agent/broker? The jobs are the same between the two,however, there are major differences between the roles. A captive agent can only represent one company and what they have to offer. The independent broker shops all of the insurance companies to see what is the right fit for you. An independent broker/ agent, keeps you and in your situation at the forefront of his mind while shopping for you.

Zac Mekker · Answer

Can you please explain the different types of life insurance that are available? Are there any that exist that you do not have access to? How do you calculate the death benefit need? Life is going to continue to evolve, how does the life insurance plan continue to grow and adjust as needs and objectives change over time? What does your own personal life insurance plan look like?

Answered by Zac Mekker on June 17, 2026

Agent Licensed in NY

Answered by Zac Mekker Life Insurance Agent

Stephen Finney · Answer

Can you shop around with multiple companies? Can you give me options for term and permanent insurance within my budget?

Steven Lovell · Answer

Ask the agent if they were in your exact financial, personal and family situation, what insurance would they get to cover those specific needs?

Corey Schuler · Answer

I think it's important to ask your agent how many companies they represent. If you are using an agent who represents only one company, you cannot easily compare all your options. Another important question to ask would be how many years they have been helping people with life insurance. You want someone with some experience under their belt who has helped many families during their tenure.

Answered by Corey Schuler on May 1, 2026

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AR & 19 other states

Answered by Corey Schuler Life Insurance Agent

Mark Cunningham · Answer

Here are a few questions to consider asking your agent.

•	What type of life insurance policy best fits my needs—term or whole life?
•	How much coverage should I get based on my financial situation and future goals?
•	What is the premium, and will it change over time?
•	How long does the application and approval process take?
•	Can I convert my term policy to a permanent policy in the future?
•	Are there any living benefits or riders I should consider adding to the policy?
•	How does the claims process work for my beneficiaries?

Sandi Horne · Answer

A first time insurance buyer should ask their agent what are my options?
When will my policy go into effect?

Justine O&#039;Connor · Answer

What are the types of life insurance available and how do I determine what is most suitable for my needs? How do I decide what company to buy life insurance from?

Antonio Lopez · Answer

You should ask what specific problem the policy is solving for you and how the recommended coverage amount was determined. It’s also very important to understand why a particular type of policy is being suggested and how it fits into your overall financial plan. Lastly, please ask about the long-term costs, flexibility if your situation changes, how the agent gets compensated and any trade-offs to note so you know exactly what you’re committing to. Life insurance should fit seamlessly into your life, and the decision should be made with clarity and confidence.

Answered by Antonio Lopez on June 3, 2026

Agent Licensed in CA, AZ, CO & 10 other states

Answered by Antonio Lopez Life Insurance Agent

Bonetta Culp · Answer

Why are you considering a life insurance policy would be first question to ask.  Do you have spouse, children, mortgage,  etc?

Steven Connell · Answer

How much death benefit do I need? How does the premium change over time? Is term or whole life/permanent life insurance better suited for my specific situation? If term, how long does the term last and what additional riders are available? How does this product compare to products offered by other companies?

Answered by Steven Connell on June 25, 2026

Agent Licensed in GA, MO, NJ, PA, TX & UT

Answered by Steven Connell Life Insurance Agent

Harold Randolph · Answer

How much coverage do I really need? 
What’s the difference between term and permanent? 
What happens if my health changes? 
Are there exclusions? 
Can my premium ever go up? 
What options am I not being told about?

The right conversation can save your family money and heartache later. If you’re buying life insurance for the first time, I’d be happy to walk you through your options.

Chace Readshaw · Answer

You should be asking how they calculated your death benefit need. If it’s just a multiple of your income they didn’t even try. 

You will also want to know the legitimacy of the company, how quickly they pay out a death benefit claim (ask what the process is), is it term or permanent insurance. 

If its term, is there a conversion period or option to convert term into permanent over time, is there a waiver of premium if you become permanently disabled, and what is the total length of the term

If it’s permanent what is the dividend rate and how much did the company pay out in dividends last year. How many consecutive years has the company paid a dividend. Is the cash value of the policy tied to the stock market or is it a safe asset. What is the goal of this savings vehicle? 

There’s more you could ask but this gives a good base.

Tonya Mowan · Answer

When speaking with an agent, an individual needs to determine how much insurance is needed. The type of insurance that best fits your needs, the cost of the policy, and what it covers. It is also necessary to determine if the insurance requires a medical exam or is guaranteed issue. A person may want to know if it is convertible, if it is term life, if it builds cash value, what riders are available, and whether a person can add more later if needed. It is always okay to ask someone to explain it another way if needed and to compare options. Always consider what if I do nothing today and something happens, how will my family be affected?

Answered by Tonya Mowan on July 16, 2026

Agent Licensed in AR

Answered by Tonya Mowan Life Insurance Agent

Penny Wegner · Answer

What kind of policy is it? (Whole Life, Term, IUL, etc). Does it have any riders on it? Terminal Illness rider, Chronic Illness Rider, Long-term care rider, Accelerated Death Benefits, Critical Illness Rider and Premium Protection Riders. There are other riders such as Coverage Expansion Riders typically used for a plus one.

Answered by Penny Wegner on July 17, 2026

Agent Licensed in WI, CA, CO & 6 other states

Answered by Penny Wegner Life Insurance Agent

Caleb Hanke · Answer

Verify what problem is needing to be solved? Is there a short-term need for life insurance? if so, why are you recommending a long-term product? and vice-versa. 
Also, what rating are you quoting me, the highest most elite rate that is very unlikely that I'll receive, or an average rate with chances I could get a better one?

Eizel Mere · Answer

This is my life story, medical history, my goals and what is important for me, what type of life insurance do you recommend for me based on my needs?
Every case is different and if the agent does not know you they do not have all the information to meet your needs and you wont have all the information as to what is available.

Shelly Hefley · Answer

You need to verify whether the life insurance is whole life or time insurance. You should verify your beneficiary and have a contingent beneficiary. Make sure the company is reputable and has an A+ rating.

Answered by Shelly Hefley on June 17, 2026

Agent Licensed in IN

Answered by Shelly Hefley Life Insurance Agent

Cris Zimmerman · Answer

How much life insurance is necessary?  What is the underwriting process like? What type of policy should I have? (Term or Permanent).  Will the premium go up?

Mel Stevens · Answer

Ask yourself what do you want life insurance for? How long do you want to have it in place for? Do you want to build a supplemental retirement strategy with life insurance? Do you need it to replace income, cover debts, take care of family needs in the event of death? Do you need life insurance to protect important business partners or relationships? Do you just need life insurance to take care of basic funeral expenses? Just a few questions to ask of think about.

Answered by Mel Stevens on June 17, 2026

Agent Licensed in AZ

Answered by Mel Stevens Life Insurance Agent

Glenn Soucek · Answer

Going to find you've been a life insurance agent. 
Are you independent or captive. 
What states are you licensed in. 
Do you belong to the Better Business Bureau.

Allen Harris · Answer

How do you determine the type of policy and amount of coverage that is most appropriate for me and my unique circumstances?

Jordan Shanbrom · Answer

Do you have a preference for Term Life Vs Whole Life? A good agent will offer both with little to no bias, both have their function, and a good agent will ask you questions to help you understand which of the two products makes the most sense for your needs.

What does the process look like from start to finish, is there anything I should be cautious about or know more before taking the next step? This helps you as the consumer understand what is expected of you (i.e. make sure to stop exercising at least 72 hours before the test, avoid Tylenol at least 48 hours before the test, etc.)

Chris Neal · Answer

Who are you wanting to protect and how much would it cost to keep them protected should something happen to you.

Joseph Morace · Answer

As a first-time buyer you need to ask
1. How much insurance do I need?
2. What type of insurance do I need?
3. Is the premium reasonable for my budget?
4. How does this specific policy fit into my overall financial plan?

Ayden Griffith · Answer

Good questions to ask: 
- How much life insurance do I need?
- What is the difference between term life and permanent life insurance?
- Is term life insurance or permanent more suitable for me?

These questions will help you understand life insurance more and also helps me know what recommendations to make based on your needs.

Paula Pairman · Answer

Ask your agent to explain the type of policy and why does it best suit your needs. Does it expire, what riders are included, what riders can be purchased.

Woldine Petit · Answer

As an insurance producing professional, I think it's important for clients to understand what insurance product is best for their financial plan. There are so many vehicles out there, all are not created equal. Here are a few questions to ask your agent: 
*What type of policy is best for me (term vs. whole)?
* Can I use my policy to pay for long-term care cost that Medicaid and Medicare don't cover?
* How much coverage do I need where my family will not have to worry about selling off hard assets?
* Can I change or update my policy later?
* Are there any fees or penalties (e.g., for early cancellation)? and will my premium increase overtime?

Get in touch with me if you have any questions.

Contact me.

David Didier · Answer

Hello,  

Here's a few questions to help you with your Life Insurance agent.

1. How long have you been in the life insurance business?
    Are you an independent agent or work for a captive agency?
    How many insurance companies do you represent?
2. What factors do you consider (income, debts, dependents, future goals)?
   What would this policy protect me from?         
3. What type of life insurance do you recommend for my situation — term or permanent?
     What are the premiums, and how do they work?
     Do I need a medical exam or para medical?
4.  Ask about the company and it's AMBest rating ( A+, A Excellent ,  A-, or  A )
    How do you choose which company to work with?
5. About policy details and changes
    How long is my premium good for?
    How can I change beneficiaries or make changes on my policy?
    Are there any risks or exclusions with this policy? l
6. How do you handle claims and customer service?
    Can I speak directly with someone about my policy, customer service

I hope this helps!

Thx!