How much life insurance do you need?
Drag the sliders for a personalized coverage estimate using the DIME method — no contact info needed. Then see your real rate from 25+ carriers, or have it emailed to you.
How much life insurance do you actually need?
Most people guess — and guess low. This uses the DIME method advisors use: enough to clear your debts, replace your income, pay off the mortgage, and cover education.
Or email me this result + a personalized plan:
How this calculator works
This tool uses the DIME method — the same simple framework many advisors use to size a life insurance policy. DIME stands for Debt, Income, Mortgage, and Education. Add those up, subtract what you’ve already saved, and you get a realistic target for how much coverage your family would need if you weren’t there.
Debt
Credit cards, car loans, student loans, and personal loans. Coverage can wipe these out so your family doesn’t inherit the bills.
Income
Your yearly income multiplied by the number of years your family would need it replaced — usually until the kids are grown or a spouse retires.
Mortgage
The balance left on your home, so your family can stay in it without the monthly payment hanging over them.
Education
A rough allowance per child for school or college (the tool uses about $50,000 each, which you can adjust by changing the number of kids).
Why getting the number right matters
Most people guess — and guess low. Too little coverage leaves a gap your family has to make up at the worst possible time. Too much means paying for protection you don’t need. A few minutes here gets you a number you can actually act on, and your real rate is usually far lower than people expect.
When you’re ready, I’ll compare real rates from 25+ A-rated carriers to find the best fit — no fees, no pressure.
Common questions
How much life insurance do I really need?
It depends on your debts, income, mortgage, and family. The DIME method in this calculator gives most families a solid starting number — typically enough to clear what you owe and replace your income for the years your family relies on it.
What is the DIME method?
DIME stands for Debt, Income, Mortgage, and Education. You add those four needs together and subtract your current savings and any coverage you already have. It’s a quick, advisor-tested way to size a policy without guesswork.
Is the monthly estimate a real quote?
No. The monthly figure is an illustration for a healthy 35-year-old and is not a quote, an offer, or advice. Your actual rate depends on your age, health, and the carrier — which is why I shop 25+ carriers to find your best price.
Should I choose term or whole life for this amount?
Both can work. Term covers a set period (often the years your family needs income replaced) at the lowest cost; permanent coverage lasts for life and builds value. The right mix depends on your budget and goals — happy to walk you through it.
This calculator is an educational estimate only — not a quote, not advice, and not an offer of insurance. Your actual coverage and rate depend on your health, age, and carrier underwriting.