Introduction

Dying isn't something that people like to think about, let alone talk about. However, tragedies occur and those of us who have financial obligations and loved ones should consider the consequences if the worst happens.

You should ask yourself if a surviving relative or partner could pay the mortgage or meet the monthly bills without you.

The principal of life insurance is simple. It is designed to pay out a benefit in the event of death. Of course death is inevitable, but you can either plan to protect against it for a particular term or for whenever it occurs.

And even if you do not have dependants who are financially reliant on you, you may wish to ensure that sufficient funds are available to tidy up your affairs quickly and to prevent the taxman from taking a significant slice.

This guide provides an easy to read introduction to the type of products that are available to you, whatever your personal circumstances.