Permanent life insurance

How does the cash value in a permanent life insurance policy work?

On participating whole life, cash value grows through guaranteed values plus any dividends. On universal life, it grows with the investments you choose. Term to 100 builds none. You can borrow against the cash value or withdraw from it, though either can reduce the death benefit. You can also cancel the policy and take its cash surrender value, but your coverage ends. Using your cash value may be taxable, so speak with us before you decide.

Reviewed by Garrett Agencies Ltd., October 2026. How we write

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Life insurance that lasts your whole life, with options that build cash value.

Permanent life insurance

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