In financial planning, life insurance is purchased for several reasons: (1) to provide cash to the insured's family for daily living expenses, (2) to provide cash for potential death taxes and estate expenses, and (3) to provide a shelter from income taxes (for beneficiaries), potential estate taxes, or gift taxes (for insureds). In order to ensure that your beneficiaries receive the maximum benefit from life insurance policies on your life, you must structure ownership of these policies to minimize income and potential estate taxes.

A comprehensive policy generally covers the costs of round-the-clock nursing home care, including that given at custodial, intermediate, and skilled levels. The policy may also cover any expenses associated with assisted-living residences, provided the facility is state certified. Adult day-care centers are often covered as well, as is respite care, which is the temporary professional care you'll need if your regular caregiver is on vacation. Policies may also pay for at-home care provided by registered nurses; respiratory therapists; physical, occupational, or speech therapists; registered dietitians; or licensed social workers.

Disability income insurance is insurance that pays benefits when you are unable to earn a living because you are sick or injured. Like all insurance, disability income insurance is designed to protect you against financial disaster. Most disability policies pay you a benefit that replaces part of your earned income (usually 50 percent to 70 percent) when you can't work.