General & Basics

Can life insurance provide retirement income in Nevada?

Answer

Permanent life insurance policies with cash value accumulation can supplement retirement income through a strategy called a policy loan. Rather than withdrawing from taxable accounts, policyholders borrow against the cash value of their life insurance policy. These loans are not taxable income and do not require repayment, though interest accrues and unpaid loans reduce the death benefit.

This strategy—often called "Bank On Yourself" or "Infinite Banking" in popular literature—requires a well-funded permanent policy with substantial accumulated cash value. It works best when premiums have been paid for many years, allowing the cash value to grow to meaningful levels.

IUL policies with 0% floor protection can accumulate cash value linked to market index performance without direct market loss risk. Cap rates (typically 8-12%) limit gains, and policy fees must be considered in projections. Whole life policies accumulate at guaranteed minimum rates, with potential dividends (not guaranteed).

This approach is not a replacement for qualified retirement accounts and has important considerations including policy loan interest and death benefit impact. Many professionals consider it a complement to, not substitute for, a comprehensive retirement plan. Agents in our network can illustrate how different permanent policies might accumulate cash value over your specific planning horizon.

Key Takeaways

  • Permanent policy cash value can be accessed through tax-advantaged loans in retirement.
  • Policy loans are not taxable income but accrue interest and reduce death benefits.
  • IUL policies offer index-linked growth with a 0% floor and caps typically 8-12%.
  • Works best as a complement to, not replacement for, qualified retirement plans.

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