Unsuitable life insurance policies

Hi Mr Tan,
I came across your blog that you will help to review the life insurance policies. I attached 2 benefit illustrations
for a Vivolife policy and an ILP. My wife and I bought these life insurance about a year ago from a friend working for an financial adviser firm. Is it worthwhile to keep these policies? Both policies have a coverage of $10,000.

REPLY
The coverage of $10,000 is too low for your needs. These policies are not suitable for protection and offer a poor yield as an investment.

The ILP policy takes away 46% of the value of your accumulated premium at the end of 25 years, i.e. $102,000 out of $220,000). This is far too high. The Vivolife policy takes away 31%, i.e. $36613 out of $116694. This is high, but not as bad as other policy. According to my book, Practical Guide on Financial Planning, the fair deduction should be 20% for 25 years. If I were in your place, I would certainly give up the ILP policy now, but I am not sure about the Vivolife policy.

More important, you should read my book (you can buy the 5 book bundle at a 40% discount) to learn about how to safeguard your own financial future, i.e. buy term insurance and invest your savings in a low cost fund. You should also join FISCA and attend its educational talks.