20 year term life covers you for 20 years at one fixed price. It usually fits young families with babies or toddlers, and people early in a home loan.
A baby born this year turns 18 in 18 years. A 20 year plan covers that, plus a little extra for college or a late start.
It is a middle option. It runs long enough for most kids, but not as long as a 30 year home loan.
Who can buy it
OneAmerica: ages 18 to 65. Banner Life OPTerm: ages 20 to 70 non tobacco, 20 to 65 tobacco (outside New York).
What happens when it ends
When the term ends, your cover stops unless you act. NAIC says most term plans can be renewed at the end, even if your health changed, but the new price is higher. Western and Southern says some plans renew one year at a time, and the price goes up each time. Banner says its rates rise every year after the level term, up to age 95. Many plans also let you convert to permanent cover with no new health checks. The price is based on your age when you convert.
Sample 20 year prices
| Age | Sex | $250,000 | $500,000 | $1,000,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | Female | $23 | $32 | $60 |
| 30 | Male | $26 | $38 | $74 |
| 40 | Female | $28 | $47 | $86 |
| 40 | Male | $35 | $59 | $109 |
| 50 | Female | $59 | $102 | $194 |
| 50 | Male | $77 | $137 | $262 |
MoneyGeek, Updated September 22, 2026. Not a quote.
Other term lengths
Common questions
Why is 20 years so popular?
It covers a newborn until they are an adult, with time to spare.
Does 20 years cover my 30 year home loan?
Not the whole thing. You may want 30 years, or two plans that end at different times.
What age can I buy it?
It depends on the insurer. OneAmerica sells it up to 65. Banner sells it up to 70 for non tobacco users.
