Active Planning & Investment Solutions logo

2810 Fieldstream Drive North

Wilson, NC 27896

 

Phone: 252-237-4357

Fax: 252-243-2681

 

March/April 2025

Survivorship Policies: Filling a Need

Survivorship Policies Filling a Need

A survivorship policy—also called a second-to-die policy—can be a valuable estate-planning tool. It* insures two lives, typically a married couple (or business partners), with the death benefit paid out after the second person's death.


The Strategy
The unlimited marital deduction allows one spouse to leave an unlimited amount of assets to the surviving spouse without owing estate or gift taxes. The assets become part of the survivor's estate at the first spouse's death. When the second spouse dies, proceeds from the life insurance policy are available to pay expenses.


Cost Advantages
Because the premium on a survivorship policy is based on the joint life expectancy of the insured, the cost may be significantly less than the cost of buying two single-life policies. Qualifying for a joint policy may also be easier since the survivor will continue to pay the premiums, and the death benefit isn't paid until the second spouse dies.


Multiple Uses
A survivorship policy is often purchased by couples who want to preserve more of their wealth for heirs. Additionally, survivorship policies can be used to:
  • Provide support for a special needs child after both parents have died.

  • Leave a legacy to support a charitable organization.

  • Provide the funds needed to pass on a family business while providing cash value for heirs that aren't involved. The policy also can help fund a buy-sell agreement upon the death of a business owner.


Survivorship policies are often used in conjunction with a trust. Talk to your financial and legal professionals for more information.


*Applications for life insurance are subject to underwriting. Insurance coverage exists only if the premium is paid to put the policy in force. Accessing cash values may result in surrender fees and charges and may require additional premium payments to maintain coverage, and will reduce the death benefit and policy values. Guarantees are based on the issuer's ability to pay claims.


SUBSCRIBE

Enter your Name and Email address to get
the newsletter delivered to your inbox.

Please include name of person that directed you to my online newsletter so I can thank them personally.


CONTACT US

Enter your Name, Email Address and a short message. We'll respond to you as soon as possible.

Active Planning & Investment Solutions and LTM Client Marketing are unrelated companies. This newsletter was created by LTM Client Marketing and was not written or created by the named financial professional and does not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Avantax Wealth Management® or its subsidiaries.
Avantax affiliated advisors may only conduct business with residents of the states for which they are properly licensed and registered. Securities offered through Avantax Investment Services, Member FINRA, SIPC, Investment advisory services offered through Avantax Advisory Services, Insurance services offered through an Avantax affiliated insurance agency. Not all products and services are offered by all financial professionals. Products and services listed may only be offered by properly licensed individuals.

The information and opinions contained in this web site are obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but their accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The publishers assume no responsibility for errors and omissions or for any damages resulting from the use of the published information. This web site is published with the understanding that it does not render legal, accounting, financial, or other professional advice. Whole or partial reproduction of this web site is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher.