One of the questions I get asked by young professionals is this:
“Kuya Randell, kailangan ko na ba ng life insurance kahit single pa ako?”

It’s a fair question. After all, many of you are still building your careers, paying off debt, or helping your family. Life insurance might feel like something only married people or parents should worry about.

But let’s look at it clearly—without pressure, without hype.

What is Life Insurance, Really?

At its core, life insurance is a financial safety net. It provides a cash benefit to your loved ones (called beneficiaries) if something happens to you. It’s designed to protect the people who depend on you financially.

So the real question is: Does anyone depend on you financially right now?

Let’s break it down—advantages and disadvantages of getting life insurance as a single Filipino professional.

Advantages of Getting Life Insurance While You’re Single

1. Lower Premiums Now

The younger and healthier you are, the cheaper your life insurance premiums will be. Buying early locks in low rates that you can keep for years, even decades.

Think of it as buying protection at a discount.

2. You May Still Be a Provider

Even if you’re not married, you might be supporting your parents, siblings, or even a lola. If something happens to you, your income disappears—and that could hurt your family.

If people rely on your income, insurance helps protect them.

3. Covers Loans and Debts

If you have a personal loan, car loan, or credit card debt, life insurance can help pay these off so your family doesn’t get burdened. Some single professionals also co-sign family loans. Insurance helps cover that risk too.

4. Future-Ready

Life can change quickly. You might get married in a few years or have kids. Starting your insurance now means you’re already covered—no need to scramble for approval later on when you’re older or less healthy.

Disadvantages or When You Might Not Need It Yet

1. You Have No Dependents

If no one depends on your income, and you’re not carrying big debts, you might not need life insurance yet. There are other priorities—like building your emergency fund, investing, or paying off high-interest debt.

2. It’s an Added Cost

Insurance is good—but not if it gets in the way of your current financial foundation. If you’re living paycheck to paycheck, it might be wiser to fix your cash flow first before committing to long-term policies.

3. Wrong Type of Policy

Some singles get pressured into expensive whole-life or VUL policies they don’t really understand. Sometimes a simple term insurance plan (low premium, high coverage) is enough for now. Don’t be sold—be informed.

So… Should You Get It?

Here’s my personal take:

– If you’re single, financially stable, and have people depending on you (even partially)—then yes, you should seriously consider getting life insurance.

– If no one depends on your income, and you’re still building your foundation, you can postpone it—but stay informed and revisit the idea soon.

The most important thing is to make the decision intentionally, not emotionally or under pressure.

Consider this…

As a single young professional, you’re at a powerful stage. You’re starting to build not just your career, but your legacy. Don’t think of life insurance as something morbid—it’s actually an act of wisdom and love.

Proverbs 13:22 (ESV) says:

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.”

You may not have your own family yet, but starting smart financial habits—including protection—will bless you and your future family for years to come.

If you need help understanding what kind of insurance fits your stage in life, talk to a licensed financial advisor you trust. And always ask: Do I really need this now? Will this help me or distract me from my financial goals?