Should I get life insurance when I start my first job?

Starting your first job is an excellent time to establish life insurance for several reasons. Your income is now worth protecting, you are likely at peak health, and premiums are at their career-long low point.

Many employers offer group life insurance as a benefit — typically 1–2x your annual salary. While this is a good start, it is usually insufficient and definitely not portable. When you change jobs, that coverage ends. Individual life insurance you purchase and own stays with you regardless of your employment status.

For young professionals, a 20- or 30-year term policy is often the most practical starting point. It covers the years when you are building financial obligations — student loans, future mortgage, potential family — at the lowest premium you will ever pay.

Nevada's no state income tax environment means your take-home pay is higher than in many states, often making life insurance premiums very manageable as a percentage of income. Agents in our network can help you identify how much coverage to start with and how to build on it as your career progresses. Actual premiums vary by carrier, age, health status, and coverage amount.