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While traditional savings vehicles, such as 401(k)s, IRAs and 529s, are more susceptible to market dips, IUL offers a long-term death benefit coverage that credits interest based on the performance of a market index. In that light, here are four components of its capabilities for upside growth:

📌 IUL policies contain much less risk of volatile market loss: They offer protection with what’s called “the floor” (typically set at 0 percent), meaning if the market drops, your IUL is credited the 0 percent for the timeframe.

📌 There is a higher capacity for growth and accumulation: On average, IUL returns offer seven to eight percent annually.

📌 You can access your cash earlier: Unlike with IRAs and 401(k)s, IUL permits you to access cash as early as year two with no “penalties, fees or taxes.”

📌 IUL accumulation and income is 100 percent tax-free: This is due to IRS tax code 7702, and can become increasingly more valuable the higher you are in tax brackets.

You don’t have to be part of the ultra-wealthy to reap the benefits of indexed universal life insurance. Market protection, lifelong tax-free income and the ability to leave behind substantial savings to heirs make this a savings vehicle you shouldn’t overlook.