Many overestimate cost of cover

New research suggests that many UK adults significantly overestimate the cost of life insurance.

According to a recent survey from L&G, respondents believe that life insurance typically costs £79.50 per month. In reality, the average policy was £27.95 in 2024, meaning that people are overestimating the cost of cover by an average of 184%. This substantial gap highlights the lack of public knowledge about the true price of insurance.

Misconceptions about cost

The report revealed that the biggest barrier to insurance was the cost, with 27% believing that it is too expensive. But the findings suggests that many people may be basing their decisions on inaccurate assumptions. Perhaps if more UK adults knew the real cost of life insurance, they would feel confident enough to take out protection.

The attitudes of different age groups

The research also highlighted differing opinions depending on age group and region. Brighton residents aged 45-54 were the most concerned about the price of life insurance. Younger adults shared similar worries; 18–24-year-olds also viewed life insurance as ‘too expensive’, despite this group being particularly engaged with their finances, reviewing them around 35 times a year on average. Motivation is also a barrier among younger generations, with 24% saying that they don’t have plans to take out life cover. Meanwhile, 13% of respondents said they ‘haven’t had time to look into it’.

Don’t wait for big milestones

Previous research from L&G found that many adults are waiting to reach key milestones before taking out products such as life insurance. However, with people getting married and buying houses later in life, many could be delaying having important conversations about financial security.

Life insurance is not just applicable to those who have experienced a major life event. If you rent a property, have you considered how others in your household would keep up with payments if you were no longer around? Or if you have other dependents who rely on you financially, such as an unwell family member, it’s important to get cover.

Don’t put it off

Securing life insurance provides long-term peace of mind that your loved ones will be financially supported at a difficult time. It’s understandable that younger adults may not want to think about what will happen in the event of their death. However, getting protection now could result in cheaper premiums in the long run, as it is generally more expensive to take out a policy when you’re older. We can help you source a policy that fits your budget and meets your specific needs.

As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgages

Sources:

https://protectionreporter.co.uk/uk-adults-overestimate-life-insurance-costs-by-184.html