Life Insurance Coverage Has a Deadline

Term life coverage lasts only for a set period, often 10, 20, or 30 yr, not for life, so policy timing matters before signing.
When the term ends, coverage stops unless you renew, buy a new policy, or convert if allowed, and none of those steps happen automatically.
Premiums usually stay level during the chosen term, but renewal later can cost much more because age and new health issues reshape eligibility.
Some policies let you convert to permanent coverage without a new exam, while return-of-premium options may refund payments only if you outlive the term.
Choosing the right duration means matching coverage to income replacement needs, mortgage timing, children, and retirement, then reviewing yearly so protection does not lapse.