Not a guess — a real starting point based on your numbers. Use the quick estimate, or the more detailed method for a personalized figure.
This calculator is for educational purposes only and isn't a quote or financial advice. A licensed advisor will help confirm the right amount for your specific situation.
Credit cards, loans, or other debt you'd want paid off — not counting your mortgage, which is covered separately below.
Your annual income × the number of years your family would need it replaced — commonly 10 years as a starting point.
The balance remaining on your home, so your family doesn't have to worry about that payment.
Future schooling costs for your kids — estimated at $103,400 per child, the average total 4-year cost at an in-state public university, per College Board's Trends in College Pricing 2025-26 report.
The most affordable way to get a large coverage amount for a fixed period.
See term life →A smaller policy built specifically to cover funeral and end-of-life costs.
See final expense →No — it's a well-established starting point used by financial advisors, not a personalized recommendation. Your actual needs depend on details a calculator can't capture, which is why we always follow up with a real conversation.
That's common, and completely fine to talk through — your agent can show you what different coverage amounts and term lengths cost, so you can find something that fits your budget.
The DIME method is most commonly used for term life, since it's about income replacement. Whole life and IUL coverage amounts are often sized differently — around estate planning or legacy goals — and are worth discussing directly with an agent.
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