Best Life Insurance Companies In Maryland For November, 2024

The results of my research show that MassMutual is the top life insurance company in Maryland.

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Updated: 15 October 2024
Written by Bob Phillips
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My research shows that MassMutual is the top life insurance provider in Maryland, not based on market share, but due to its outstanding coverage and service at an affordable price, which is a winning combination in my book.

Other highly ranked companies include Mutual of Omaha as the best for seniors, Transamerica as the top pick for younger individuals, State Farm for exceptional customer service, and Nationwide as a good choice for smokers. MassMutual also earned recognition for having the cheapest life insurance in Maryland.

It will only take a few minutes to review the results below, but it’s well worth it. Without the right life insurance, your family may not be able to maintain their lifestyle in the event of your sudden passing. Purchasing life insurance reflects your commitment to their security.

Best Life Insurance Companies In Maryland, 2024

mass-mutual-icon-logo
Best Overall - MassMutual
transamerica-icon-logo
Best For Seniors - Mutual of Omaha
transamerica-icon-logo
Best For Young Adults - Transamerica
nationwide-icon-logo
Best For Smokers - Nationwide
Best Life Insurance, Maryland, 2024

Compare The Best Life Insurance Providers In Maryland

For your evaluation of the leading life insurance providers in Maryland, we’ve prepared a table that highlights our preferred companies across several important factors.

Overall Rating (Best 10.0) Best For A.M. Best Rating Online Experience (Best 10.0) J.D. Power Rating (Best 1000) Get A Quote
Nationwide
4.6

Smokers

A+

9.6

791

Instant Quote
Mutual of Omaha
4.6

Seniors

A+

9.7

801

Instant Quote
Transamerica
4.7

Young Adults

A

9.8

740

Instant Quote
MassMutual
4.8

Overall

A++

9.7

780

Instant Quote
State Farm
4.8

Customer Service

A++

9.5

839

Instant Quote
MassMutual
4.8

Cheapest Life Insurance

A++

9.7

780

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Best Life Insurance Companies In Maryland 2024


Best Overall

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

MassMutual earned the Best Overall title thanks to its wide range of offerings. They provide top-quality life insurance products, including term, whole, and universal life insurance, at competitive prices, with a diverse set of riders to cater to individual needs.

MassMutual’s “career agents” have undergone in-depth training on the company’s life insurance products. Their expertise, combined with their exclusive focus on MassMutual policies, makes them an excellent resource for buyers who need guidance in understanding life insurance.

The company’s financial strength was a significant factor for us. MassMutual holds an A++ Superior rating from AM Best, which highlights its strong financial position and capacity to pay claims.

MassMutual’s selection as Best Overall highlights its focus on offering a diverse product lineup and well-trained agents, not just low rates. Although it may not have the same level of market dominance or brand recognition as some Maryland competitors, it is still highly respected across the state.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • High financial strength ratings
  • Wide variety of products with many rider choices
  • Best prices for life insurance in Maryland
Drawbacks
  • Only offered through MassMutual agents
  • J.D. Power ranking slightly below other companies
  • Cannot buy whole life products online

Best For Seniors

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
10/10 Coverage level

Why We Like Them

Mutual of Omaha’s expertise in serving seniors has made it a trusted name for many years. Seniors have come to rely on the company, thanks in part to its show “Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom” and the thorough training its agents receive to address the specific needs of the senior market.

The company is well-known for its senior life insurance portfolio, which features two products for seniors with health concerns. The guaranteed-issue policy, which requires no medical exam or health questions, is a perfect choice for those with severe conditions such as cancer, stroke, or heart attack.

The simplified-issue policy requires only medical history questions to be answered, without needing a medical examination. This is ideal for seniors with minor health conditions such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes who would rather avoid a medical exam.

Life insurance costs more for seniors, who often turn to Mutual of Omaha for coverage. The company has built a strong reputation over the years with senior-focused products like Medicare supplements and life insurance. Baby Boomers and their parents have known and trusted the brand since their younger days.

One of the reasons Mutual of Omaha is so well-known and respected in senior insurance is its strong direct mail program aimed at seniors, along with well-trained agents who specialize in the product line.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Strong financial standing
  • Well-trained agents provide peace of mind
  • Competitive pricing for seniors in Maryland
Drawbacks
  • More complaints than some competitors
  • Has fewer agents in Maryland compared to other large insurers

Best For Young Adults

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Transamerica is conscious of its strength in offering reasonably priced life insurance for young adults. Recognizing that many younger people are careful with their finances, especially when buying life insurance, the company has made its policies affordable to ensure they can get the coverage they need while staying on budget.

With younger consumers in mind, Transamerica designed its website to be clear, informative, and easy to navigate. The user-friendly site helps customers review their life insurance options. Transamerica believes that life insurance should be accessible to all, providing peace of mind no matter the customer’s age or budget.

Attracting younger buyers to life insurance is a challenge, as many don’t see the need for it until later in life, such as after marriage or starting a family. Still, Transamerica targets this group because their lower mortality rates contribute to higher profits.

Of all the companies we assessed, Transamerica received the lowest score in customer service. This might be a result of their reliance on independent agents, as some working alone may not provide high-quality service.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Term life policies can be purchased online
  • Maximum coverage of up to $10 million
  • No medical exam required for policies up to $2 million if applicants qualify
Drawbacks
  • Customer service ratings are not as high as other companies
  • $25,000 is the smallest available coverage

Best For Customer Service

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
10/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
8/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

J.D. Powers has awarded State Farm high marks for customer satisfaction in life insurance over the years, demonstrating the company’s dedication to top-tier policyholder service. It’s no surprise, as State Farm has the most agents in the U.S.

Policyholders hold State Farm in high regard for its commitment to outstanding customer service. The company’s numerous local offices allow clients to meet with agents face-to-face for any policy-related assistance they need.

Renowned for its high level of customer service and quick claim resolutions, State Farm stands out in the life insurance industry, where families in mourning count on their insurer for prompt and caring support.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Excellent financial ratings for claims-paying strength
  • More agents for customer service than any other company
  • Much lower complaint rate compared to the rest of the industry
Drawbacks
  • Policies only sold through State Farm agents
  • Fewer rider options available

Best For Cheapest Life Insurance

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

MassMutual, known as Maryland’s best life insurance provider, also excels financially by offering some of the most competitive rates in the state. Even with several low-cost term insurance companies, MassMutual’s pricing remains highly competitive.

It’s not ideal to base life insurance purchases solely on price, but it remains an important factor. MassMutual, known more for professionalism than low prices, offers the best rates in Maryland. The company is using competitive pricing to boost its market share in the state.

Price plays a big role in buying life insurance in today’s economy. MassMutual is an attractive option, with low premiums and substantial coverage. While their whole and universal life insurance may not be as competitively priced, term life offers larger coverage amounts, as permanent policies are more costly.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Complete range of life insurance options available
  • A large network of well-trained agents offers MassMutual policies
  • The most affordable life insurance option we found in Maryland
Drawbacks
  • Cannot apply for life insurance online
  • Must purchase through a MassMutual agent

Best For Smokers

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Nationwide’s strong reputation and extensive network of local offices support their slogan, “Nationwide is on your side,” especially for smokers inMaryland searching for life insurance. Although their smoker rates may be somewhat higher than their top competitors, we determined that Nationwide is the best choice due to its competitive rates, accessible agents, and excellent service.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Nationwide life insurance policies are sold through a wide network of well-trained agents
  • Many offices available throughout Maryland
  • Offers a complete range of life insurance products
Drawbacks
  • No online applications allowed for life insurance
  • Must be purchased via a Nationwide agent

How To Find The Best Life Insurance Company For You

If you’re searching for life insurance in Maryland, know that there’s no universal solution. At Insuranceopedia, we understand that every individual’s needs differ, which is why we review several insurers and give awards in various categories.

To select the best life insurance for your needs, consider these three steps:

  1. Figure out the coverage amount you require. Many insurers provide “life insurance calculators” on their websites to assist you in estimating the proper amount.
  2. Select three insurers to examine. It’s essential to compare their financial stability along with their rates. Affordable prices are great, but only if the company can actually pay your claim.
  3. Finish the process and apply for life insurance. Many people fail to follow through, but securing your family’s financial future means taking action without delay.

Largest Life Insurance Companies In Maryland

Many life insurance companies who operate in Maryland. The top five, as measured by their market share, are:

Company Market Share
New York Life 9%
State Farm 7%
Northwestern Mutual 6%
Primerica 3%
Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance 3%

Average Cost of Life Insurance in Maryland For Females

Company Rates for $250,000 Coverage Rates for $632,000

Coverage

Mutual of Omaha $11 $16
MassMutual $10 $14
Nationwide $12 $25
Transamerica $14 $28
State Farm $21 $33

*Rates based on a 10-year term life policy for a 30-year-old female nonsmoker

Average Cost of Life Insurance in Maryland For Males

Company Rates for $250,000 Coverage Rates for $632,000 Coverage
MassMutual $10 $15
Nationwide $11 $18
Mutual of Omaha $13 $18
Transamerica $16 $31
State Farm $19 $35

**Rates based on a 10-year term life policy for a 30-year-old male nonsmoker

Average Cost of Life Insurance in Maryland For Smokers

Company Average Monthly Cost
Nationwide $53
Mutual of Omaha $40
GEICO $41
Protective $43
Allstate $39

*Rates based on $632,000 of 20-year term life for a 30-year-old male smoker

Smokers pay much more for life insurance compared to non-smokers, but you can lower your rates after 12-24 months of being smoke-free, depending on the company. A paramedical exam and blood test will be required to prove you no longer have nicotine in your body.

Average Cost of Life Insurance in Maryland For Young Adults

Company Monthly Cost
Nationwide $9
Mutual of Omaha $7
AAA $8
Haven $9
State Farm $15

*Rates are for a 25-year-old male nonsmoker that purchases a $250,000 20-year term life policy.

Average Cost of Life Insurance in Maryland For Seniors

Company Monthly Cost
Nationwide $47
Protective $42
Prudential $46
Mutual of Omaha $42
GEICO $44

*Based on $75,000 of coverage for a 60-year-old male non-smoker buying a 10-year term life contract.

Factors That Impact The Cost Of Your Life Insurance In Maryland

The price of life insurance policies in Maryland is influenced by many factors, including:

  • Your life insurance company
  • Age
  • Gender
  • Health status
  • Smoking habits
  • Credit score
  • Riders added to your policy

Men often pay higher premiums than women due to their shorter life expectancy. Smokers also face higher rates for the same reason. In Maryland, your credit score may also be factored into your insurance rate. Adding riders, like a disability waiver of premium or child coverage, can further raise the cost of your policy.

How Much Life Insurance Do You Need In Maryland?

The amount of life insurance a person needs varies. Homeowners usually require more coverage than renters, and individuals with children or other dependents typically need a higher level of protection.

Insurance agents frequently recommend coverage that’s 10 to 20 times your yearly salary to provide enough support for your loved ones. With an annual income of $75,000, this would mean $750,000 to $1.5 million in coverage.

Maryland Life Insurance Laws To Know

In Maryland, life insurance buyers are protected by a set of laws designed to safeguard their rights. If you’re considering a policy, it’s important to be aware of these guidelines, including:

Grace period for missed payments

In Maryland, life insurance policies come with a 30-day grace period, allowing you to catch up on missed payments without losing coverage.

Time allowable to settle a claim

Once beneficiaries file a claim for life insurance benefits, Maryland law requires companies to settle the claim within a 30-day period.

Contestable period

Maryland’s laws state that a life insurance company can refuse to pay out a claim if they discover that the policyholder provided misleading information within the first two years of the policy. After two years, any inaccuracies in the application can no longer be used to contest the policy.

Free Look Period

After receiving your life insurance policy, you’re given 10 days to review it. If you don’t want to keep it, you can return it during this period and get a full refund of the premiums you’ve paid, without any penalties.

Our Methodology

Our approach to choosing the best life insurance companies was comprehensive and careful. We factored in customer service, product selection, pricing, and online usability. In addition, my experience selling life insurance and dealing with other agents provided me with valuable insights into their products and services. We didn’t select companies based just on price, except in the "Best for Cheapest Life Insurance" category. We believe that each company is exceptional in its niche, and price should not be the sole determining factor when choosing life insurance.

69

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Experience

23

Brands Reviewed

30+

Research Hours

FAQs

Is life insurance more expensive in Maryland?

Maryland’s life insurance costs are comparable to those in other states. Insurers often raise premiums when they’ve had to pay out more claims than expected.

What is the average monthly cost of life insurance in Maryland?

We found that MassMutual provides the most affordable option for a 10-year, $1 million term life policy in Maryland, with a premium of $37 per month.

How much per month is a million-dollar life insurance policy in Maryland?

Life insurance for a 30-year-old male in Maryland can cost as low as $10.04 a month for $250,000 of coverage, while a woman of the same age may pay $9.70.

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