How to Choose the Right Canadian Life Insurance Plan in 2026

September marks Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM)! This is the perfect time for Canadians to review their financial safety net, explore coverage options, and help ensure their loved ones remain protected.

While basic life insurance products (term life insurance, participating whole life, and non-participating permanent life insurance) are widely available, life insurance providers differ significantly in service, flexibility, intelligent solutions, and ease of application. Empire Life simplifies the process of getting insured with straightforward, flexible insurance policies tailored to your stage of life.

Comparing Canadian Life Insurance Options

Understand more about different types of life insurance here.

Estimating your coverage needs

From mortgages and personal loans to future living expenses and final costs, estimating your coverage needs doesn't have to be complicated. Our Life Insurance Needs Calculator breaks down your financial responsibilities in 5 simple steps:

1. Mortgage & Debt: Account for outstanding mortgages, credit cards, or personal loans that would need to be paid off.
2. Living Expenses: Help protect your family's standard of living and ongoing day-to-day costs.
3. Final Expenses: Plan ahead for funeral costs and immediate estate needs.
4. Existing Life Insurance: Factor in your current individual policies or employer group coverage.
5. Savings & Financial Resources: Subtract existing savings and assets to reveal your true coverage gap.

Whether you are buying your first policy, updating existing coverage, or simply checking in on your financial wellness, getting a realistic estimate takes less than two minutes.

Evaluating your financial goals during Life Insurance Awareness Month ensures your protection matches your current life stage. Explore your options with an Advisor to find the right Empire Life coverage today.

FAQs

How much life insurance coverage do I need?

Everyone has different needs and financial goals, use our Life Insurance Needs Calculator and answer 5 quick questions to find out how much insurance you need to protect you and your family.

Can I convert a term policy into permanent coverage later?

Yes. Some Empire Life flexible term policies allow conversion into permanent coverage without additional medical underwriting before age limits expire.

Why is September the right time to review coverage?

As you may have experienced, Summer is usually a busy time for Canadians and their families. September provides a structured moment to reevaluate financial planning goals before year-end.

¹Cash Value Savings are a portion of your paid premiums for Whole Life Insurance that are set aside by the company for investments. As the policy owner, these funds may be accessed through a policy loan (standard interest rates will apply) or by surrendering all or part of the policy. Any portion surrendered will reduce the Death Benefit accordingly. Please see policy contract for more details. Withdrawals may reduce value, assuming payments are made, a policy loan carries more risk.