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Life Insurance Calculator

Calculate how much life insurance coverage you need using three proven methods: the DIME formula, income replacement, or expense-based approach. Get a recommended coverage amount and premium estimate.

How the DIME Method Works

Coverage = Debt + Income + Mortgage + Education
Income = Years × Annual Income | Education = Per Child × Children

The DIME method is widely recommended by financial planners because it accounts for all major financial obligations your family would face. Premium estimates use age-based actuarial heuristics ($0.06–$0.10 per $1,000 of coverage per month).

How to Use This Calculator

  1. 1
    Choose a Method
    Select DIME (most comprehensive), Income Replacement (quick estimate), or Expense Method (detailed spending-based).
  2. 2
    Enter Your Financials
    Fill in debts, income, mortgage balance, and education costs. Be as accurate as possible for the best estimate.
  3. 3
    Add Existing Coverage
    Enter any life insurance you already have through work or private policies. This determines your coverage gap.
  4. 4
    Review Your Results
    See recommended coverage, estimated monthly premium, and coverage gap. Use these figures when shopping for policies.

Example Calculation

A 35-year-old with $25,000 debt, $75,000 income (10 years), $300,000 mortgage, $100,000 education (2 kids):

Debt: $25,000
Income: $75,000 × 10 = $750,000
Mortgage: $300,000
Education: $50,000 × 2 = $100,000
Total: $1,175,000
Est. monthly premium: ~$94/mo

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