Term life insurance provides a level premium and a level-death benefit protection for a stated period of time, such as 10 or 20 years. Term life insurance can be a good fit for younger individuals and families, who need protection against the loss of income of a primary earner for a stated period of time, at an affordable cost. It has no savings component. Depending on the type of insurance you select, a medical examination will be required. Permanent life insurance typically provides both a death benefit and a savings component. There are different types of permanent life insurance, including whole life, universal life, index-universal life, variable life and variable-universal life. Permanent life insurance may provide protection for your entire life. If a guaranteed level premium is important to you, make sure your policy provides for one. Permanent life insurance accumulates a cash value, and the policy owner may be able to borrow against it tax-free or use it for retirement or other goals (like education). Premiums are initially higher than for term coverage.