October 2025

Consider for a moment the impact your absence would have on your family or loved ones. Death is an inevitable part of life, and it is prudent to prepare accordingly. Are you heeding that internal prompt encouraging you to act? Are you listening to that small voice urging you to secure a policy that provides the guarantees and financial protection you want?

The primary purpose of life insurance is to provide monetary support to your family at the time of your passing, replacing the financial structure you currently offer. Life insurance grants peace of mind that few other products can replicate. Lately there have been conversations surrounding generational wealth. Can you find a more immediate, cost-effective, tax-free, and straightforward way to transfer wealth than life insurance?

As an advisor, one of the most challenging situations occurs when I am contacted following a customers death, only to discover that no policy exists to help the grieving family. Another common difficulty arises when clients cancel policies before realizing their full long-term benefits. Since these policies are designed to last a lifetime, patience and stewardship are essential.

One of my most senior customers, in a community gathering shared the following  “The only people who don’t have a policy are those who are super rich or super foolish!”  She added “If your current savings will not replace your income potential then you need to get a policy today!”

Frequently, individuals devote more time to leisure planning than ensuring the financial stability of their dependents. The same dedication invested in enjoyable activities should also be directed toward safeguarding your family’s future.

Life insurance is an invaluable asset whose benefits are often overlooked, despite its crucial role in preserving financial security for dependents. Many people delay buying life insurance due to concerns about cost, competing priorities, health issues, misinformation, procrastination, trust, or apprehension.

An emerging voice for the millennial generation Mr. Vernon Brundage addresses this issue “Excuses are tools of the incompetent used to build bridges to nowhere and monuments of nothingness, and those who use them seldom specialize in anything else.”  

Just in case you choose to listen to that other small voice which leads you astray; A qualified advisor will address concerns and clarify policy options, emphasizing that anyone who provides financial support to others should consider life insurance as a responsible measure. My professional philosophy is straightforward: If anyone relies on you—for financial support, meals, or assistance—you need life insurance!

A common question is: Which policy type is best? My answer is consistent: “The best policy is the one that is active at the time of your passing!” A life insurance policy represents a critical gesture of care, ensuring the well-being and security of loved ones in your absence.

The benefits of life insurance include:

1. Guaranteed insurability protection (key for children)
2. Peace of mind through tax-free benefits (subject to standard conditions)
3. Locked-in rates for permanent policies.
4. Flexible premium payment options available in certain permanent policies
5. Accessible cash value during your lifetime
6. Financial protection
7. Income replacement
8. Debt security
9. Coverage for end-of-life expenses
10. Legacy and educational planning
11. Support for business ventures
12. Access for capital with home or large purchases
13. Guaranteed cash value growth.
14. Tax-free benefits
15. Dividend potential (Mutual companies) and optional riders
16. Asset protection
17. Creditor protection/lawsuit exemption
18. Supplemental retirement funding
19. Policies available without underwriting approval.
20. Protection from chronic and terminal illnesses

Life insurance offers essential financial assurance to dependents, addressing liabilities and maintaining stability after loss.

The discussion whether to secure a policy has been debated for centuries, one would think that this issue was culturally confined  however Benjamin Franklin observed: “It is a strange anomaly that men could be careful to insure their houses, their ships, their merchandise, and yet neglect to insure their lives—surely the most important of all to their families, and more subject to loss.”

Prompt action to secure the right coverage is paramount to the individual and community welfare. It is imperative to heed that small inner voice and take decisive steps to protect your family.

For further information or assistance, please contact me on 386-427-5277 or toll-free at 833-538-7829.

Stan Harrison is a respected State Farm Agent, community mentor, and Chamber of Commerce board member. Stan is more than just an insurance professional — he’s a purpose-driven advocate for smart decision-making, economic independence, and being prepared for whatever life throws your way. To read more advice from Stan click here to visit his column and archives page.