When most people think about retirement planning, they imagine 401(k)s, IRAs, or pensions. And while those tools have their place, I love showing my clients something that’s often overlooked—Indexed Universal Life insurance, or IUL. It’s a powerful and flexible strategy that’s helped so many people I work with build tax-free retirement income while also protecting their families.
I’m passionate about helping you make smart financial decisions without all the confusion, so in this post, I want to share exactly how the IUL works, why it’s such a well-kept wealth secret, and whether it might be the right fit for your financial future.
So, What Is an IUL?
An Indexed Universal Life insurance policy is a type of permanent life insurance that does more than just pay a death benefit—it builds cash value that can grow over time, based on the performance of a market index like the S&P 500. The best part? You’re not directly invested in the market, so you don’t lose money when the market goes down. Your policy is protected with a 0% floor, and you get to benefit when the market goes up—up to a certain cap.
Why I Love the IUL for Retirement Planning
One of the biggest advantages of an IUL is the ability to take income out tax-free in retirement. When structured properly, you can borrow against your policy’s cash value without triggering taxes. That means more money stays in your pocket.
- No Contribution Limits
Unlike traditional retirement accounts, there are no IRS contribution limits. So if you’re already maxing out your 401(k) or IRA—or you’re just getting started later in life—an IUL gives you the freedom to save more.
- Market-Linked Growth with No Downside Risk
You can grow your money based on the market’s performance—but with a safety net. Even in a market downturn, your policy’s value won’t drop thanks to a guaranteed 0% floor.
- Access Funds Anytime, Without Penalties
There are no age restrictions or early withdrawal penalties with an IUL. If you need access to cash before age 59½, you can use your policy when and how you need to.
- In Life Insurance Protection
Of course, the IUL also provides life insurance coverage to protect your family—something other retirement accounts don’t offer.
Who I Recommend This Strategy For
An IUL isn’t for everyone, but it can be a great fit if you:
- Are between 30 and 60 years old and in reasonably good health
- Want to diversify your retirement planning
- Are a business owner or high-income earner
- Are looking for a tax-free income strategy
- Have already maxed out other retirement plans
- Want to leave a legacy for your family
- Prefer market-linked growth with downside protection
Here’s How It Works
We set up a policy designed for growth and protection.
- Your cash value grows over time, tied to a stock market index.
- In retirement, you can borrow money tax-free through policy loans.
- The loan is paid back from the death benefit, or we design it to provide lifetime income.
- When the time comes, your loved ones receive the remaining death benefit—tax-free.
Let’s Talk About Your Future
If you’re curious about how an IUL might work for you—or just want to see if it’s the right fit—I’d love to chat. Together, we can explore your options and put together a plan that gives you tax-free income, financial protection, and peace of mind.