Life insurance that's the best fit for your life.

Since everyone's situation and goals are different, our policies are designed differently, too. Depending on what you need, our life insurance can simply be your safety net from the unexpected, or it can be the foundation of a smart financial plan, giving you more financial flexibility for the things that are important during your life like paying for college, growing your business, and having more income in retirement.

At Northwestern Mutual, our advisors base their recommendations on your priorities and what you can afford—so you get only the life insurance you need, and nothing you don't.

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How much life insurance is right for you?

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Let's talk about why life insurance is so important.

What is life insurance, exactly?

Life insurance is simple. You make reoccurring payments (your premium), and we pay a set amount of money, tax-free, to whoever you choose (your beneficiaries), including your favorite charities if you want, when you pass away.

Why do I need a life insurance policy?

Life insurance helps cover expenses like a mortgage, debts, your kids' tuition, even replacing lost income when you're no longer here. Depending on the type you get, it can be the foundation for a sound financial plan and help with expenses during your life.

Is life insurance affordable?

Surprisingly so, but there are a lot of options to choose from so the cost will vary, too. What you pay monthly (or yearly) will depend on things like the type and amount of life insurance that will fit your needs, as well as your age and health.

Isn't life insurance through my work enough?

Life insurance offered through your employer usually won't give you the coverage amount you may need, and the rates may go up year after year costing you more over time. Plus, if you ever leave your job, you can't take your coverage with you.

What if I need a life insurance policy fast?

You may be eligible for our exclusive underwriting process that uses the power of data to speed up decisions and eliminate the need for detailed medical records so you can get your life insurance application approved as soon as the same day.7

Can a life insurance policy earn money?

Yes, two ways: dividends (while not guaranteed, we've paid them every year since 1872) can be taken as cash, used to pay premiums, or buy more coverage. Some policies like whole life insurance also build cash value over time that you can use for anything throughout your life.

We have many types of life insurance to choose from

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Which type of life insurance is best for you? Compare them.

Compare life insurance products

To compare insurance products, select any two below.

BenefitsWholeUniversalVariable UniversalTerm
Guaranteed payout for your loved ones*
Chance to receive a dividend (yearly payout)5
Coverage that lasts for your entire life*
Builds cash value over time that can be used for anything2
Choose amount and frequency of payments**
Flexibility to change coverage amount
Premiums (payments) that never increase
Choose how your cash value is invested
* Unless you cancel or stop paying your premiums.** Subject to policy minimums. Independent of the death benefit.Learn moreLearn moreLearn moreLearn more

Questions about life insurance? We've got answers.

The key to a smart financial plan? Life insurance.

Most people don't see life insurance as a key part of their financial big picture. At Northwestern Mutual, our advisors6 blend the right insurance (and amount) together with smart investment strategies to create a personalized financial plan that's designed to help you:

couple on patio
  • Protect everything you've worked so hard for
  • Make the most of what you have with recommendations for saving and paying down debt
  • Grow your money with an investment strategy designed for your goals
Our approach to planning
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The Northwestern Mutual difference

No. 1  ranked insurance company for consumer experience

Best life insurance company for consumer experience, 20228

Ranking for Northwestern Mutual Investment Services LLC, ©2017–2022 and TM, NerdWallet, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

A++  financial strength rating

AAA, Aaa, and AA+—we've earned the highest financial strength ratings awarded to life insurers from all four major rating agencies.9

Awarded in the Insurance category: Life & Health industry, Fortune® Magazine's annual survey, 2017

$6.8B  in dividends expected to be paid in 2023

in dividends expected to be paid in 20235

Statistic for Northwestern Mutual, Dividends are reviewed annually and are not guaranteed. based on Northwestern Mutual policyowner data.
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Ready? Get a life insurance quote today.

Our advisors will help you find the right type, and amount, of life insurance for your goals and budget.

It's easy to get started—no commitment, just a conversation.