A variable life settlement is a financial transaction involving the sale of a variable life insurance policy to a third party for a lump sum that is greater than the policy’s cash surrender value but less than its death benefit. This type of settlement is often considered by policyholders who no longer need or want their insurance policy, can no longer afford the premiums, or would rather have cash now to use for other purposes.

1. Understanding Variable Life Insurance

To fully grasp what a variable life settlement entails, it’s important to first understand what variable life insurance is. Variable life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance that includes both a death benefit and an investment component. The policyholder can allocate portions of the premium payments to a variety of investment options, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. The cash value and death benefit of the policy can fluctuate based on the performance of these investments.

Key characteristics of variable life insurance include:

• Flexibility in Investment: Policyholders can choose from various investment options, potentially increasing the policy’s cash value based on market performance.
• Death Benefit: The death benefit is not fixed and can increase or decrease depending on the performance of the investments.
• Cash Value: The policy accumulates cash value over time, which the policyholder can borrow against or withdraw, subject to certain conditions and fees.

2. The Mechanics of a Variable Life Settlement

A variable life settlement involves selling the policy to a settlement company or investor. The buyer becomes the new policy owner, assumes responsibility for paying future premiums, and receives the death benefit when the original insured passes away.

The process generally includes the following steps:

• Evaluation: The policyholder’s life expectancy, the policy’s terms, and the investment performance are assessed to determine the value of the policy.
• Offer: Based on the evaluation, the settlement provider makes an offer, which is typically more than the cash surrender value but less than the death benefit.
• Transfer: If the offer is accepted, ownership of the policy is transferred to the buyer, who will continue to pay the premiums.
• Payment: The policyholder receives the lump sum payment agreed upon.

3. Reasons for Considering a Variable Life Settlement

Policyholders might consider a variable life settlement for several reasons, including:

• Financial Needs: Immediate financial needs, such as medical expenses, debt repayment, or funding retirement.
• Unwanted Policy: The policy may no longer be necessary, especially if the original purpose (such as income replacement or estate planning) is no longer relevant.
• Premium Costs: Difficulty in continuing to pay the premiums, especially if they have increased significantly.
• Investment Gains: Opportunity to capitalize on the value of the investments within the policy.

4. Benefits of a Variable Life Settlement

• Immediate Cash: Provides immediate access to funds that can be used for various needs.
• Higher Value: Often yields a higher payout than surrendering the policy for its cash value.
• Relief from Premiums: Eliminates the need to continue paying premiums.