is it good to have mortgage insurance

Life insurance for mortgages is specifically designed to make your mortgage payment upon loss of income or disabled. The policy typically has an increasing benefit (face) value that is reduced in proportion to the decrease in the value of your mortgage. The insured should name your spouse or a third party as the beneficiary so they can pay off your home in one lump amount. Your beneficiary could also keep the death benefit and continue to make monthly mortgage payments.

A "Return of Premium" (ROP) rider refunds the premiums you pay (excluding any claims) at the end of the term (usually 20 or 30 years). Reading the fine print on the ROP rider is important because details can vary widely.

While it's essential to spot the signs of a mortgage protection insurance scam, it's also important to know that most offers are legitimate. If you may be interested in this type of insurance, follow our top tips below as you fill out an interest card or make a phone call to ensure the company is legitimate and trustworthy.

Making sure that your family members are financially supported if you pass away prematurely or are disabled is essential. This is the bigger picture.

Most of the offers you receive in the mail have a postage-paid response card enclosed. Life agents know they will receive a response rate of approximately 2% to 3%. The next step is to call you and schedule an appointment. Be very careful here. Most mortgage life agents are trained to sell you in one visit. It's called the "one-call close." Be prepared for a compelling presentation. However, insist that the agent leaves the quote with you. Take time to compare it to your other options. Tell them this is a big decision and you need time to shop and consider other companies.