How much life insurance do I need?

Add up what your family would need if you died tomorrow, subtract what you already have, and see the gap. Takes about two minutes — nothing is saved or sent.

What your family would need

Often: until your youngest is 18–22, or your spouse retires
~$40k ≈ 4 years in-state public tuition

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What you already have

Work coverage usually ends when the job does

Suggested additional coverage

$825,000
Income replacement$600,000
Mortgage + debts$195,000
Education$80,000
Final expenses$12,000
Total needs$887,000
Minus resources−$75,000

For most families, a level term policy that lasts until your kids are grown and the mortgage is paid is the most coverage per dollar.

Talk to a licensed agent about $825,000

Want the reasoning behind each line? Read how much life insurance do I need.

Frequently asked questions

What is the DIME method?

DIME stands for Debt, Income, Mortgage and Education. You add those needs (plus final expenses), then subtract savings and existing coverage to find how much life insurance to buy.

How many years of income should life insurance replace?

Commonly until your youngest child is independent or your spouse reaches retirement — often 10 to 20 years.

Should I include work life insurance?

You can, but remember it usually ends when you leave the job. Many people treat it as a bonus rather than their core coverage.

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