Life insurance by state
Every state sets its own rules for refunds, missed payments and safety nets. Here is what protects you where you live, in plain words.
Each state page also links to its cities, final expense rates, mortgage protection and funeral help, plus a page in Spanish.
Your rights in each state
| State | Free look | Grace period | Guaranty death benefit | Help line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Set by policy | 30 days | $300,000 | 602-364-2499 |
| California | 10 days | 60 days | 80% of death benefit, up to $300,000 | 1-800-927-4357 |
| Florida | Set by policy | 30 days | $300,000 | 1-877-693-5236 |
| Georgia | 10 days | 30 days | $300,000 | 1-800-656-2298 |
| Illinois | 10 days | 30 days | $300,000 | 866-445-5364 |
| Michigan | 10 days | One month | $300,000 | 877-999-6442 |
| New Jersey | 10 days | 30 days | $500,000 | 1-800-446-7467 |
| New York | 10 days | 31 days | $500,000 | 1-800-342-3736 |
| North Carolina | 10 days | 31 days | $300,000 | 855-408-1212 |
| Ohio | Set by policy | One month | $300,000 | 1-800-686-1526 |
| Pennsylvania | 10 days | 31 days | $300,000 | 1-877-881-6388 |
| Tennessee | Set by policy | One month | $300,000 | 1-800-342-4029 |
| Texas | Set by policy | One month | $300,000 | 800-252-3439 |
Free look and grace periods are the minimum the law requires. Many companies give more. Guaranty limits from NOLHGA, as of June 1, 2025. Check each state page for sources.
Questions about life insurance by state
Does life insurance cost different in each state?
Prices depend mostly on your age, health and tobacco use. Each state also has its own rules for refunds and missed payments.
What is a free look period?
It is the time after you get your policy when you can cancel for a full refund. Many states give 10 to 30 days.
What happens if my life insurance company fails?
Every state has a guaranty association that protects policies up to a set limit, often $300,000 in death benefits.
Do I need an agent licensed in my state?
Yes. The agent who sells you a policy must be licensed where you live.
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Two minutes, a few questions, and a licensed agent shows you what it really costs. No exam needed for many plans.
About 3 in 4 people guess life insurance costs more than it does. LIMRA 2026