Sun Life Financial is a frontrunner in the global financial services industry, serving customers in 28 countries. Among its businesses is Sun Life Insurance.
Millions of individuals around the world rely on the company’s protection and wealth products and services.
Sun Life Insurance Company of Canada exclusively sells individual plans internationally. In its home country of Canada, the firm sells individual life insurance products, but in the United States, it does not.
Sun Life exclusively provides group coverage through employers in the US. In its native Canada, the corporation sells individual life insurance, but not in the United States.
As a component of your employee benefits package, your company is required to provide coverage via Sun Life. You should be aware of Sun Life’s financial stability and low customer complaint rate if your firm offers life insurance through them.
In order to qualify for employee benefits, your company must provide Sun Life insurance. Sun Life is a financially sound and well-regarded insurer, so you may be assured if your employer provides you with a life insurance policy from them.
In this article, we will take a look at Sun Life Insurance, its products and services, as well as some discussion on what you should look for in insurance, to help you make an educated decision about availing their products.
This article should not be construed as professional financial advice or a recommendation of any kind. To make the best choices for your goals, please see a reputable financial adviser or advisor.
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Table of Contents
What is Sun Life Insurance?
Sun Life Financial, Inc. has been around since 1865, making it one of the world’s oldest and largest life insurance providers.
The Sun Insurance Company of Montreal was founded in the Canadian city of Montreal. The firm relocated its headquarters to Toronto from Montreal in 1979.
The corporation has expanded its activities to numerous countries across the world, and is now a major player in the international financial sector in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Bermuda, among others.
Over 112,000 advisors help get the word out about the company’s products, which are distributed by the company’s 37,000 workers.
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is not only a dominant participant in the insurance industry, but also in the wealth and asset management sector, with over $1 trillion CAD in assets under management (AUM).
Traditional term life insurance packages from Sun Life Financial include both medical and non-medical plans that can be converted to permanent coverage if desired.
SunSpectrum Term (lower premiums for lower coverage), SunLife Go (shorter terms and fewer rider options, but up to $1 million coverage), and SunLife Go Simplified (non-medical, lower coverage) are the four product lines.
SunTerm provides the standard $15 million in coverage seen in the full term life market.
What are the pros?
AM Best has given Sun Life an A+ (Superior) rating for its financial strength. Thus, the firm is in an excellent position to fulfill its ongoing insurance responsibilities, including the settlement of claims.
AM Best similarly praises Sun Life for its solid financial footing. In case you are unfamiliar with AM Best, it is a credit rating firm that has been evaluating the financial stability of insurance companies all over the world for many years.
Insurers are given Financial Strength Ratings (FSRs) from D+ to A++ after being evaluated.
Among U.S.-based providers of group life insurance, Sun Life Financial Inc. and its affiliates have an A+ (Superior) financial strength rating, indicating an exceptionally strong capacity to pay all claims when they become due.
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners tracks the ratio of insurance company complaints to total premiums.
Based on the NAIC’s complaint index, Sun Life has received a lower number of complaints than would be expected for a life insurer of its size.
Coverage can be continued or made permanent even if an employee leaves their job or loses eligibility for benefits. The insured will be responsible for paying the premiums if they leave their previous employer.
What are the cons?
In the United States, you can only acquire health insurance through your workplace if you qualify for a policy and your company provides it.
Sun Life only provides group life insurance coverage in the United States. It is unclear from their website’s product pages whether or not they provide different kinds of life insurance.
Their help page, however, hints at the availability of permanent life insurance in addition to term life. For group life insurance, this is extremely unusual.
There is a possibility that the permanent insurance are only accessible through term life conversion. If your company participates in Sun Life benefits, you should contact Sun Life or your company’s benefits office to learn about your choices.
There is also a lack of online product information. You may get more details about your group life insurance policy on your company’s benefits portal.
What are Sun Life Insurance’s products?
Term life Insurance
If the insured individual passes away while the policy is still in effect, the beneficiary will get a death benefit.
The term for group insurance is often the time during which a person is employed by the company, meets the eligibility requirements for the employee benefit, and makes the decision to participate in the benefit.
With portable coverage, however, the employee has the option of keeping the policy and continuing premium payments even after leaving the workplace. The policy can then be held for its whole term.
Sun Life Insurance provides their customers with a selection of term life insurance policies including the following:
SunTerm
SunTerm is the standard policy offered by Sun Life, and it has elements that are common to most term life insurance plans.
- Term lengths of 10, 15, 20, and 30 years are available, and guaranteed level premiums are included.
- In the event that your requirements for coverage change, you have the option of exchanging SunTerm 10 and SunTerm 15 for SunTerm 20 or SunTerm 30.
- Guaranteed insurability, accidental death benefit, children’s insurance riders, and remission of premium on total disability are just few of the extra perks that are available with each and every term.
- The plan includes a non-contractual living benefit in which the insured person has the potential to be entitled to accept a 50% advance on the coverage amount, up to a maximum of $250,000, in the event that they are diagnosed with a terminal illness.
- The fine print states that the payment is not obligated by any contract and is left up to the decision of Sun Life on an individual basis.
- Each term can be extended till the age of 85 and converted before the age of 75, and available joint-first-to-die and multiple life options. The minimum amount of coverage that you can get with this policy is $250,000.
SunSpectrum Term Insurance
SunSpectrum is comparable to SunTerm, although the minimum amount of coverage required is significantly lower at $50,000. If you want protection for lesser sums, you might wish to think about this option. Provides most of the functionality that are available in SunTerm, such as:
- 10, 15, 20, and 30 years with premiums that are assured to remain constant.
- Every term is convertible before the age of 75 and is renewed up until the age of 85.
- Should your requirements for coverage evolve over time, you have the option of exchanging your SunSpectrum Term 10 or SunSpectrum Term 15 for a 20 or 30 year term.
- Guaranteed insurability, accidental death benefit, children’s insurance riders, and remission of premium on total disability are just few of the extra perks that are available with each and every term.
- Includes a living benefit that is not required by the contract, as described above
- Every term is convertible before the age of 75 and is renewed up until the age of 85.
- Joint-first-to-die and multiple life options available
Sun Life Go Term Life Insurance
This is a more straightforward insurance plan with coverage limits ranging from $100,000 to $1,000,000 that can be issued.
- People between the ages of 18 and 69 are eligible to purchase terms of either 10 or 20 years, and there is a streamlined application process available online.
- To apply online, please respond to the following health questions: A medical examination is not required at this time. The policy also comes with terminal Illness benefit.
- This package does not include any of the additional advantages or riders that are offered by Sun Spectrum and SunTerm.
- The price is much higher in comparison to the prices of other term insurance products.
Sun Life Go Simplified Term Life Insurance
- A non-medical term insurance plan with simplified underwriting that is designed for low coverage levels. You have the option of selecting one of these three amounts: $50,000, $75,000, or $100,000.
- The only available term length is ten years. You only need to provide responses to three questions concerning your health. This also comes with terminal illness benefit. There are no further optional rides or advantages.
- Product is appropriate for individuals with moderate to severe health issues, who may not qualify for typical medically underwritten products or other non-medical products accessible on the market. Product is suited for those with moderate to severe health considerations.
- Because of the restricted amount of health information that is given, this plan is also significantly higher in cost.
In addition to term life insurance, Sun Life Canada provides its customers with a comprehensive selection of other types of insurance, such as:
Whole life insurance
As long as the premiums are kept current, the insured is protected by their whole life insurance policy. The death benefit on a whole life policy is assured and the premiums are usually fixed. The monetary value can be borrowed against or spent however the insured sees fit.
From the time the policy is settled until the day you pass away, permanent life insurance covers you. As long as you continue to pay the premiums, the coverage will remain in effect.
The rates are level and guaranteed. Non-participating, participating, and universal permanent life insurance policies are the three variations that Sun Life offers.
Non-Participating Life Insurance
Sun Life offers three different non-participating permanent insurance policy alternatives.
- Sun Life Go Guaranteed Life Insurance. Simplified, guaranteed no-medical whole life coverage available with death benefits from $5,000 to $25,000. Complete online fulfillment
- SunSpectrum Permanent Life II. Whole life insurance coverage up to $10,000,000 that needs no active management.
- Sun Permanent Life Insurance. Guaranteed lifetime protection with coverage from $250,000 to $10,000,000
Participating Life Insurance
- Sun Par Protector II. Participating whole life insurance that seeks to generate long-term cash value and death benefit growth
- Sun Par Accumulator II. This policy focuses on higher cash value growth in the near term
- Sun Par Accelerator. Participating permanent life insurance guaranteed to be fully paid-up in eight years. Provides high cash values over the short term, as well as long-term cash value and death benefit growth
Universal life insurance
Another type of permanent life insurance that lasts for the insured’s entire life is universal life. Both the premiums and the death benefit can be adjusted to meet your needs. They are modifiable even after the policy has gone into effect. The cash value portion of a universal life policy can accumulate interest.
You may be able to “port” or convert your term policy to a permanent policy if you leave your work or retire and wish to preserve your life insurance coverage. Your future insurance premiums will be your responsibility regardless of the outcome.
Three choices for universal life insurance are provided by Sun Life:
- SunUniversalLife II. Four coverage options, six cost-of-insurance structures, and five death benefit alternatives are available to policyholders.
- SunUniversalLife Pro. This is long-term security created especially for companies, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
- SunSpectrum Universal Life II. The decreased paid-up provision of this policy enables the policyholder to stop paying beyond age 70. Additionally, it has a guaranteed investment incentive that compensates you for keeping and expanding the policy.
Sun Life’s website is extremely sparse in terms of details on their life insurance products. Group life insurance policyholders in the United States can purchase riders from the company, but the specific riders available are not specified.
Get in touch with Sun Life or your company’s benefits office for further information. Common riders let you extend coverage to a spouse or child, access the death benefit in the event of terminal illness, and suspend payments in the event of disability.
Sun Life also has a number of different phone numbers and email addresses for various types of customer care inquiries.
Life insurance and other employee benefits can be inquired about by calling (800) 247-6875. You can also reach us by dialing (800) SUN-LIFE (786-5433) to speak with a customer care representative. The email address USWeb_General_Information@sunlife.com can also be used to contact the company.
There is no indication of when customer support agents are available due to the absence of published office hours.
Critical Illness Insurance
When you are diagnosed with a critical disease, you will get a lump sum payment, free of taxes, once you have been covered by your policy for at least 30 days (90 days in the case of cancer). You, the policyholder, choose the duration of coverage (the “term length”) at the time of purchase.
With its Sun Critical Illness Insurance program, Sun Life provides critical illness coverage for both adults and children.
- Enhanced (26 conditions) and children’s coverage available (5 additional conditions)
- 8 conditions are eligible for partial payouts
- Early detection is eligible for partial payment (10% of the benefit up to $50,000)
- Terms: 10 years and to age 75 and 100
- 10 and 15 year limited pay options
- Maximum coverage: $2.5-million
- Coverage for Loss of Independent Existence Included
- Return of Premium on death and expiry/cancellation available (after 15 years)
Disability Insurance
Disability insurance, often known as income protection insurance, is a policy that compensates you if you become disabled and are unable to work.
If you become disabled and can not work for an extended length of time (or until your coverage term ends), this helps replace a significant percentage of your income.
In order to obtain coverage, details, and prices for Sun Life’s disability insurance products, an insurance broker must be contacted.
Medical and Dental Insurance
Sun Life is one of the most well-known names in health and dental insurance for the workplace in the United States, and they manage programs for both groups and individuals.
Plans range from the most basic to the most advanced options for customers. Sun Life also makes it simple to transfer from group coverage to an individual policy, with no medical underwriting required.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Sun Life also provides two different types of health insurance to help retirees pay for medical care: Sun Long Term Care Insurance and Sun Retirement Health Assist.
How do you choose the best insurance products for you?
Life insurance is a crucial tool that can provide financial security and peace of mind for you and your loved ones in the event of an untimely death.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the right life insurance policy for your needs? In this article, we will explore the key factors to consider when selecting a life insurance plan.
Life insurance is not a topic most people like to think about, but it is an essential part of financial planning. It serves as a safety net, ensuring that your loved ones are taken care of financially in the event of your death.
Life insurance provides a lump sum payment to your beneficiaries, which can be used to cover expenses such as funeral costs, outstanding debts, mortgage payments, and education expenses for your children.
Without life insurance, your family may be left struggling to make ends meet during an already difficult time.
It is crucial to think about what you want from life insurance before making a purchase. Think about your family’s needs, the quantity of coverage you can afford, and your present financial status.
Think about things like the cost of your mortgage and your kids’ college tuition. Knowing your budget and long-term objectives will help you choose the right kind of insurance at the right price.
What are the types of life insurance?
There are two main types of life insurance: term life insurance and whole life insurance. Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific period, typically 10, 20, or 30 years.
This type of insurance is often more affordable and is ideal for those who only need coverage for a certain period, such as until their children are grown or their mortgage is paid off.
Whole life insurance, on the other hand, provides lifelong protection. It combines a death benefit with a cash value component, which can be used as an investment or to borrow against in the future.
Whole life insurance is more expensive but offers permanent coverage and the potential to build cash value over time.
When evaluating the different types of life insurance, it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each option.
Consider factors such as cost, coverage period, and potential for cash value accumulation. By understanding the differences between term life insurance and whole life insurance, you can determine which one aligns with your financial goals and needs.
To choose the right life insurance policy, you must first assess your financial needs. Start by calculating your current expenses and future financial obligations.
Consider factors such as outstanding debts, mortgage payments, and education expenses for your children. Determine how much coverage you would need to ensure your family’s financial security in the event of your death.
Next, consider your financial goals. Do you want to leave a legacy for your loved ones? Are you looking for an investment component? Understanding your financial goals will help you determine which type of life insurance policy is most suitable for you.
Once you have assessed your financial needs, it’s time to determine the right coverage amount. A general rule of thumb is to aim for coverage that is at least 10 times your annual income.
However, this may vary depending on your specific circumstances. Take into account factors such as outstanding debts, future expenses, and any additional income sources your family may have.
By determining the right coverage amount, you can ensure that your loved ones are adequately protected financially.
What should you consider when choosing a life insurance policy?
When choosing a life insurance policy, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, evaluate the financial stability and reputation of the insurance company.
Look for a provider with a strong track record and positive customer reviews to ensure reliability and trustworthiness. You want to choose an insurance company that will be there for your loved ones when they need it most.
Next, understand the different features and riders that may be available with your policy. Features such as accelerated death benefit riders, which allow you to access a portion of your death benefit if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness, can provide added peace of mind.
Consider your specific needs and preferences when evaluating policy features.
Moreover, you should shop around for the greatest life insurance quote to guarantee you are getting the most value for your money.
Remember that the least expensive choice is not necessarily the best one. Think about things like the insurance company’s reputation and how well they take care of their customers.
When choosing a life insurance policy, it’s important to understand the different features and riders that may be available.
Features such as accelerated death benefit riders, which allow you to access a portion of your death benefit if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness, can provide added peace of mind.
Other common riders include waiver of premium riders, which allow you to skip premium payments if you become disabled, and child riders, which provide coverage for your children.
Evaluate the policy’s characteristics in light of your unique demands and preferences. A policy with a critical illness rider is something to think about if, for instance, you have a history of a certain medical issue in your family.
You can find the right life insurance policy with the right amount of coverage by familiarizing yourself with the various policy features and riders.
Once you have assessed your financial needs and determined the type and amount of coverage you require, it’s time to compare life insurance quotes and providers.
Shop around and request quotes from multiple insurance companies to ensure you are getting the best coverage at the most affordable price.
Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best. Consider factors such as the financial stability of the insurance company and the level of customer service provided.
Additionally, consider the reputation of the insurance company. Look for a provider with positive customer reviews and a strong track record. You want to choose an insurance company that will be there for your loved ones when they need it most.
Finally, it is important to research the financial health of insurance providers before settling on a policy. After all, you need to be sure the business can afford to pay out the death benefit if and when it becomes necessary.
Try to choose insurance firms that have received good marks from organizations like AM Best, Standard & Poor’s, and Moody’s. You can learn a lot about an insurance company’s solvency and reliability with the help of these agencies, which evaluate their financial health and stability.
How do you apply for life insurance?
Once you have chosen the right life insurance policy and provider, it’s time to apply for coverage. The application process typically involves completing a detailed questionnaire about your health, lifestyle, and financial situation.
Depending on the coverage amount and your age, you may also be required to undergo a medical examination. Be honest and thorough when completing the application to ensure that your coverage is not jeopardized in the future.
After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by the insurance company. They may request additional information or clarification before making a final decision.
Once your application is approved, you will receive your policy documents and be required to make premium payments to keep your coverage in force.
It might be difficult to decide on a suitable life insurance policy, but doing so can ensure financial security for your loved ones in the event of your untimely passing.
Think about what you want out of life insurance, what kinds of coverage are available, and which insurance firms have the best financial standing and best reputations.
The best life insurance policy can be found by comparing quotes and providers, learning about policy features and riders, and applying for coverage.
Keep in mind that buying life insurance is not just about making sure your loved ones are taken care of in the event of your passing. Spend some time picking out the correct insurance plan so you can give your loved ones the safety net and tranquility they need.
Do you need health, disability, or critical illness insurance?
Health, disability, and critical illness insurance are all designed to protect you and your loved ones when you need it most.
Insurance is often seen as an unnecessary expense, but when it comes to your health and financial security, it’s a wise investment.
Health insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, ensuring that you can access the healthcare you need without worrying about the financial burden.
Disability insurance replaces a portion of your income if you are unable to work due to an illness or injury, providing peace of mind by ensuring that your bills are still paid, even if you can’t earn a paycheck.
Critical illness insurance, on the other hand, offers a lump sum payment if you are diagnosed with a serious illness, allowing you to cover medical expenses, pay off debt, or fund necessary lifestyle changes.
What is health insurance?
Health insurance is a type of coverage that helps pay for medical expenses. It can be obtained through your employer, purchased independently, or provided by the government.
There are different types of health insurance plans available, such as Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO). Each plan has its own network of healthcare providers and coverage options.
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans typically require you to choose a primary care physician (PCP) who will coordinate your healthcare.
You will need a referral from your PCP to see a specialist. With an HMO plan, you may have lower out-of-pocket costs, but your choices of doctors and hospitals may be limited.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans offer more flexibility when it comes to choosing healthcare providers. You can see specialists without a referral, but you may pay higher out-of-pocket costs for out-of-network services. PPO plans usually have higher premiums compared to HMO plans.
Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans are a combination of HMO and PPO plans. Like an HMO, you will need to select a primary care physician, but you don’t need a referral to see a specialist.
EPO plans have a network of preferred providers, and if you receive care outside of that network, you will likely have to pay the full cost.
Having health insurance provides numerous benefits. Firstly, it ensures that you have access to necessary medical care without worrying about the financial burden.
Doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications can be expensive, but health insurance helps to alleviate these costs.
Additionally, health insurance can provide preventive care services, such as vaccinations, cancer screenings, and annual check-ups, which can help detect and treat health issues early on.
Lastly, health insurance offers peace of mind, knowing that you have a safety net in case of unexpected medical emergencies.
What is disability insurance?
Disability insurance is a form of coverage that provides income replacement if you are unable to work due to a disability. It is designed to protect your financial well-being by ensuring that you can still meet your financial obligations when you can’t earn a paycheck.
Disability insurance typically pays a percentage (usually around 60-70%) of your pre-disability income, allowing you to cover your expenses while you focus on recovering.
To be eligible for disability insurance benefits, you must meet the definition of disability as outlined in your policy.
This definition can vary, but it generally means that you are unable to perform the duties of your occupation due to an illness or injury. Some policies may have a waiting period before benefits kick in, known as the elimination period, which can range from a few days to several months.
The length of time you will receive disability benefits depends on the terms of your policy or until you are able to return to work.
What is critical illness insurance?
Critical illness insurance is a specialized form of coverage that provides a lump sum payment if you are diagnosed with a serious illness, such as cancer, heart attack, stroke, or kidney failure.
This money can be used however you see fit, whether it’s to cover medical expenses, pay off debt, or make necessary lifestyle changes.
Critical illness insurance is designed to provide financial support during a challenging time, allowing you to focus on your health and recovery without worrying about the financial impact.
The specific illnesses covered by critical illness insurance can vary depending on the policy and insurance provider.
However, some of the most common critical illnesses covered include cancer, heart attack, stroke, organ transplant, kidney failure, and major organ failure. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of a critical illness insurance policy to understand what illnesses are covered and any exclusions or waiting periods that may apply.
When it comes to selecting insurance coverage, it’s important to consider your unique circumstances, financial situation, and future goals.
Once again, it is suggested to assess your healthcare needs, evaluate your risk of disability or critical illness, and determine what level of coverage you need.
Take into account factors such as your age, family history, lifestyle, and occupation. It may be beneficial to consult with an insurance professional who can guide you through the process and help you find the right insurance coverage for your needs.
Insurance is an investment in your well-being and can provide invaluable support when you need it most.
Health, disability, and critical illness insurance offer financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you and your loved ones are taken care of during challenging times.
Don’t overlook the importance of insurance. Take the time to evaluate your needs and find the right coverage for you. Remember, being prepared for the unexpected is the key to a secure and worry-free future.
Final thoughts
Sun Life Insurance is a reputable provider with several notable advantages.
One of the most significant benefits is its superior financial strength rating. Sun Life has earned an A+ (Superior) rating from AM Best, indicating that the company is in a superior position to fulfill its insurance obligations, including paying claims.
This rating provides customers with peace of mind, knowing that Sun Life has the financial stability to meet its commitments.
Another advantage of Sun Life Insurance is its low number of customer complaints. Over the past three years, the company has received fewer complaints than expected, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.
This is an essential factor to consider when choosing an insurance provider, as it reflects the company’s commitment to providing excellent service and meeting customer needs.
Sun Life Insurance also offers coverage for businesses of all sizes. Whether you own a small business with just a few employees or a large corporation with thousands of employees, Sun Life has options to meet your needs.
This flexibility allows businesses to tailor their insurance plans according to their specific requirements and budget.
Additionally, Sun Life Insurance offers portable and convertible term coverage. This means that if an employee leaves their company or loses eligibility for benefits, they have the option to take their coverage with them or convert it to a permanent policy.
This feature provides individuals with the flexibility to maintain their insurance coverage even when their employment situation changes. However, it’s important to note that after leaving their employer, the insured will be responsible for paying the premiums.
Despite these advantages, there are a few limitations to consider when choosing Sun Life Insurance. One significant drawback is that the company primarily focuses on group insurance. This means that individual policies are not available in the United States.
To obtain coverage, individuals must rely on their employers offering it as part of their employee benefits package and being eligible for it. This limitation restricts the options available to individuals who are not covered by a group plan.
Furthermore, there is limited product information available online for Sun Life Insurance’s group life insurance coverage.
While the company’s official website provides some basic information, potential customers may find it challenging to access detailed information about the coverage options, terms, and conditions.
However, it’s worth noting that more comprehensive information may be available through an employer’s benefits portal.
Sun Life Insurance, in conclusion, is a reliable service with a high financial strength rating, suggesting it would be able to fulfill its insurance commitments.
The company’s low complaint rate is evidence of its dedication to keeping customers happy. Regardless of the size of your business, Sun Life has you covered. Their portable and convertible term coverage makes it possible for you to keep your coverage no matter where your career takes you.
Sun Life has limited online product information, and the company largely caters to businesses needing group insurance. Despite these restrictions, Sun Life Insurance is still a good alternative for policyholders who need both broad and adaptable protection.
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