What is whole life insurance?

Whole life insurance - sometimes called whole of life assurance - is a type of life cover that lasts for your entire life, not just a fixed term. As long as you keep up with the monthly premiums, it guarantees a payout to your loved ones whenever you pass away.

Unlike term life insurance, which only covers you for a set number of years, whole life insurance never expires, so you don’t have to worry about outliving your policy. It offers peace of mind that your family will receive the money they need, no matter when you die. It can help cover funeral costs, outstanding debts, or simply provide financial security for your family.

While it can be more expensive than other types of cover, the lifelong protection and guaranteed payout make whole of life cover a popular choice for people looking for long-term financial certainty.

Page updated on 5th November 2025, Reviewed by Richard Groom

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