How to Convert Your Term Life Policy to Permanent Coverage

How to Convert Your Term Life Policy to Permanent Coverage (Without Starting Over)

If you’ve got a term life insurance policy and you’re thinking long-term, here’s something smart: you might be able to convert it to a permanent life insurance policy — no medical exam required.

This move can lock in lifelong protection and build cash value while keeping the convenience of your original term policy. And the best part? You may not need to start from scratch.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the switch with confidence.

✅ What Is a Term-to-Permanent Conversion?

It’s a built-in feature in many term policies that lets you upgrade your coverage to permanent life insurance — typically whole life or universal life — without undergoing a new health screening.

It’s like trading up your car before it depreciates — only here, you’re securing protection for life.

💡 Why Convert to Permanent Coverage?

• Lifetime Protection: No expiration date, unlike term policies.

• Build Cash Value: Permanent policies grow cash value you can borrow from.

• No New Medical Exam: Lock in your health status from the original policy.

• Protect Your Legacy: Ideal for estate planning or caring for lifelong dependents.

🕒 When Should You Convert?

Most insurers allow conversion within a specific window — often during the first 10–15 years of your term policy, or before a certain age (commonly age 65 or 70).
The earlier you convert, the more options and lower premiums you’ll get.

📋 Step-by-Step: How to Convert Your Term Life Policy

1. Check Your Policy – Look for a “conversion option” clause or contact your agent.

2. Review Timelines – Make sure you’re still within the conversion period.

3. Compare Permanent Options – Choose between whole life or universal life based on your goals.

4. Submit Your Conversion Request – Usually involves minimal paperwork.

5. Start Your New Policy – Your new premium will be based on your original age, not your current health.

⚠️ Tips Before You Convert

• Run the numbers. Permanent policies cost more, so check affordability.

• Ask about partial conversions. You might not need to convert the full face amount.

• Work with a broker who can shop permanent policy options from multiple carriers for the best rate.

💬 Is Conversion Right for You?

If you want peace of mind, long-term financial planning tools, or protection that lasts your entire life — then yes, conversion is likely worth it.

And if your health has changed since you bought your term policy? Converting now could be your only chance to get permanent coverage without a medical exam.

🚀 Get Expert Help & Instant Quotes

Want to convert or explore your options?
We work with over 100 top-rated life insurance carriers to help you find the best coverage at the best rate.

👉 Fill out our quick form and get a custom quote in seconds.