Quick tips to get covered with life insurance

Americans are more aware of their health and well-being these days. We take extra preventive measures and change our daily routines to protect ourselves and those we love. We have an opportunity to take the same steps with our financial well-being.

Unfortunately, many Americans don't carry any life insurance. Not having it can leave loved ones at risk if someone they depend on financially dies unexpectedly. The bottom line is that life insurance gives families cash when they need it most.

Most American families, when trying to figure out what a new normal looks like after losing a loved one, still have basic financial needs that must be met. They need a roof over their heads, groceries and other living expenses paid for. Without money from life insurance, many American families would feel significantly impacted within six weeks of the loss of a primary breadwinner.

Don't be overwhelmed by the conversation if you don't currently have life insurance. Keep it simple to start.

Here are a few quick tips for those starting out with life insurance:

• Start with enough coverage to pay off all debt and replace your yearly income for at least five years.
• If you don't already have life insurance, term life insurance may the best kind to consider.
• A term life insurance policy should last as long as the things that you want protected. For example, you could choose a term that's the length of your mortgage or one that will see your youngest child through to financial independence.

These tips should help you be more confident in your life insurance search. USAA is here to help with tools that can help you calculate your life insurance needs. You can also reach our team of life insurance specialists who can provide more information and help get your coverage in place. Simply call 800-531-LIFE (5433).