Understanding whole life insurance
Whole life insurance promises lifetime coverage and cash value—but what’s the real trade-off? Understand participating policy bonuses, surrender values, and long-term costs.
Last updated 2 July 2026
Key takeaways
Whole life policies generally cost more than term insurance as part of the premium is invested to build up cash value
Bonuses projected by participating policies are not guaranteed and may fluctuate
Prepare to commit for the long term; early termination may result in losses
A non-participating policy only provides guaranteed benefits and it is not entitled to bonuses
If you take a loan from your cash value, it has to be repaid with interest – it will make it harder for your money to grow
Whole life insurance provides life-long protection. It is available in different forms such as participating and non-participating policies.
Participating whole life policies VS non-participating whole life policies
Participating whole life policies share in the profits of the company’s participating fund. Your share of the profit is paid in the form of bonuses or dividends to your policy.
Bonuses or dividends are not guaranteed as they depend mainly on the investment performance of the participating fund. When you make a claim, bonuses or dividends which have been declared will be paid in addition to the sum assured.
Whole life policies have cash values which will build up after a minimum period, and this differs from product to product.
Non-participating whole life policies have guaranteed claims benefits and cash values.
Compare participating and non-participating whole life policies. Decide what features and benefits match your needs and buy the product that best meets them.
Things to note
Before buying a whole life product, ask yourself if you need to provide for your dependents for the rest of your life or until they are financially self-reliant.
Buying a life insurance policy is a long-term commitment. Early termination causes you to lose money. Can you afford the premium?
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