What is the primary distinction between a fixed and a variable life insurance policy?

The primary distinction between a fixed and a variable life insurance policy hinges on how the cash value and death benefit are managed within each type of policy. A fixed life insurance policy guarantees a certain payout amount at death and typically provides a stable, predictable cash value that grows at a specified rate determined by the insurer. This means policyholders can have confidence in knowing exactly what their beneficiaries will receive.

In contrast, a variable life insurance policy allows policyholders to allocate their cash value among a variety of investment options, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. As a result, the cash value and potentially the death benefit can fluctuate based on the performance of those investments. This element of variability means that while there is the possibility for growth, there is also the risk of loss.

This understanding directly addresses why the first choice is correct, highlighting the fundamental differences in guarantees and investment components between fixed and variable life insurance policies. The other options do not accurately capture the defining characteristics of these policies, emphasizing distinctions that may not hold true in all cases, such as premium costs or guarantees that can lead to a misunderstanding of each policy type’s risk and growth potential.