---
title: How much life insurance should my spouse have
url: https://coverfolk.com/answers/how-much-for-a-spouse
updated: 2026-10-08
---

# How much life insurance should my spouse have?

Updated October 8, 20263 sourcesCoverfolk team[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

Enough to replace their income plus the cost of the work they do at home. Add debts, kids' needs and funeral costs, then subtract savings and other coverage.

If your spouse earns money, start with how much of that pay your family needs and for how many years.

If your spouse stays home, count the cost to replace that work. Think about child care, cleaning, cooking and rides.

NerdWallet, citing Department of Labor data, says full time care for one child can cost about $6,552 to $15,600 a year.

Add debts, the mortgage, college plans and funeral costs. Then subtract savings and any life insurance you already have.

Do not rely only on a quick rule like 10 times income. It skips savings, other coverage and inflation.

* Income your family would lose
* Child care and household help
* Mortgage and other debts
* College costs
* Funeral and final bills

## More questions

### Does a stay at home spouse need life insurance?

Yes, in most families. The work they do has real value, and replacing it costs money.

### Term or permanent?

Term is the lowest cost and is enough for most families.

## Sources

1. [NerdWallet: Why Stay at Home Parents Need Life Insurance](https://www.nerdwallet.com/insurance/life/learn/stay-at-home-parents-life-insurance)
2. [Triple-I: How much life insurance do I need?](https://www.iii.org/article/how-much-life-insurance-do-i-need)
3. [NerdWallet: How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?](https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/insurance/life-insurance-20s-30s)