Q: I want to get Life Insurance–where do I begin?

A: Start by evaluating your family’s needs. Gather all your personal financial information and estimate what your family will need after you’re gone.

Include ongoing expenses (such as day care, tuition or retirement) and immediate expenses at the time of death (like medical bills, burial costs, and estate taxes). Your family also may need funds to help them readjust… perhaps to finance a move, or pay expenses while job hunting.

Remember, life insurance provides financial protection. If protection is not your primary goal, you should consider other financial products.

Aug. 31, 2005.