This created a massive population of universal life insurance policy holders that are now stuck with under performing policies and faced with a decision on how to not go without coverage.
The cash value of a universal life insurance policy accumulates based on the amount of premium paid, monthly deductions for policy costs and an interest rate that is declared by the insurance company.
According to Henry Montag of Financial Forums, Inc., the majority of universal life insurance policies sold in the past relied on a growth rate of 7 - 10 % to earn enough interest to keep their rates affordable.
According to Newton, the cost for term life insurance has decreased significantly in the last few years, and a new generation of universal life insurance policies from various providers allows consumers to set low monthly premiums.
The investment element of a universal life insurance policy often allows consumers to purchase a higher death benefit amount for less than a traditional whole life policy because the investment return is contributing to the policy's cash value.
In addition, the policyholder of a universal life insurance policy may also be able to decide how much of their premium dollars will go towards the death benefit, and how much will go towards the cash value component of the policy.