Best Life Insurance In South Carolina For 2024

Research reveals that MassMutual is the highest-ranked life insurance provider in South Carolina.

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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 South Carolina, not because of market share, but due to its excellent coverage and affordable price, which is a winning combination.

Other top-rated companies include Mutual of Omaha for seniors, Transamerica for younger individuals, State Farm for exceptional customer service, and Nationwide as a great option for smokers. MassMutual also offers the cheapest life insurance in South Carolina.

Taking a few minutes to review the results below is well worth it. Without proper life insurance, your family may struggle to maintain their lifestyle if you suddenly pass away. Purchasing life insurance is a commitment to their security.

Best Life Insurance Companies In South Carolina 2024

transamerica-icon-logo
Best for Seniors - Mutual of Omaha
transamerica-icon-logo
Best for Young People - Transamerica
nationwide-icon-logo
Best for Smokers - Nationwide
Best Life Insurance, South Carolina, 2024

Compare The Best Life Insurance In South Carolina

We've prepared a table outlining our preferred life insurance providers in South Carolina, emphasizing crucial factors.

Overall Rating Best For A.M. Best Rating J.D. Power Rating Online Experience Get A Quote
Mutual of Omaha
4.6

Seniors

A+

801

9.7

Instant Quote
MassMutual
4.8

Overall

A++

780

9.7

Instant Quote
Transamerica
4.7

Young Adults

A

740

9.8

Instant Quote
State Farm
4.8

Best For Customer Service

A++

839

9.5

Instant Quote
MassMutual
4.8

Cheapest Life Insurance

A++

780

9.7

Instant Quote
Nationwide
4.6

Smokers

A+

791

9.6

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Best Life Insurance Companies In South Carolina 2024


Best Overall

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

MassMutual earned the title of Best Overall for its broad selection of life insurance products, including term, whole, and universal policies, all offered at competitive rates.

Their “career agents” are experts in these policies, providing valuable guidance to customers.

Financial strength played a major role, with MassMutual holding an A++ Superior rating from AM Best, highlighting its ability to handle claims.

While not as prominent in South Carolina, MassMutual’s commitment to product variety and customer service earned it the Best Overall title.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Exceptional financial standings
  • Varied product assortment with numerous additional features.
  • Competitive pricing in South Carolina
Drawbacks
  • Whole life insurance isn't offered through online shopping.
  • Records a lower J.D. Power score than top-tier competitors.
  • Only MassMutual agents can facilitate purchases.

Best For Cheapest Life Insurance

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

In South Carolina, MassMutual is recognized as a leading life insurance provider, distinguished by its competitive rates across the state. While many low-cost term insurance companies exist, MassMutual maintains some of the best pricing. Although it’s essential not to choose life insurance based only on cost, it remains a critical factor for many buyers.

MassMutual offers top rates for those seeking life insurance in South Carolina, even though the brand is more often associated with professionalism than affordability. Nevertheless, MassMutual aims to expand its market share in South Carolina through aggressive pricing tactics. Price plays a crucial role when purchasing life insurance today.

MassMutual is a great choice as it offers affordable premiums and significant coverage amounts. Though their whole and universal life policies may not be the most economical, MassMutual generally provides generous coverage for term life insurance, especially since permanent life insurance is often more costly.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Broad network of experienced agents distributing MassMutual policies.
  • Offers a broad selection of life insurance options.
  • From our research, the lowest-priced life insurance in South Carolina
Drawbacks
  • You won't find any online application method for life insurance products.
  • Only available through MassMutual agent channels.

Best For Smokers

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Nationwide is a trusted and well-known company with plenty of local offices that offer sales and service. Smokers in South Carolina seeking life insurance might find their slogan, “Nationwide is on your side,” fitting. Though its rates for smokers may be higher than other competitors, Nationwide remains our top recommendation for smokers, thanks to its competitive pricing, agent availability, and great customer support.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Large network of educated brokers selling Nationwide insurance products.
  • Offers a full suite of life insurance products.
  • Numerous office locations across South Carolina.
Drawbacks
  • Life insurance products cannot be applied for via online means.
  • Restricted to using a Nationwide agent for purchases.

Best For Customer Service

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

State Farm is frequently recognized as one of the top life insurance companies by J.D. Powers, reflecting high levels of customer satisfaction. This reputation highlights the company’s commitment to providing excellent service to its policyholders. With the largest agent network in the nation, State Farm stands out among other insurers.

Its strong focus on customer service is highly regarded by policyholders. The presence of numerous local offices enables clients to meet their agents face-to-face for sales or policy-related assistance. Additionally, State Farm is well-known for its prompt claims processing—an essential element in the life insurance industry, particularly when families are relying on timely and compassionate help during their time of grief.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Delivers a notably better customer experience with fewer complaints
  • Maintains top financial standings for paying claims.
  • The most extensive service agent network among insurers.
Drawbacks
  • You can purchase policies only through State Farm agents.
  • Riders are scarce.

Best For Seniors

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Mutual of Omaha has become a well-respected name for senior insurance, earning trust through its show “Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom” and the specialized training given to its agents.

The company is known for its senior life insurance portfolio, offering two policies tailored to those with health concerns. The guaranteed-issue policy doesn’t require a medical exam or health questions, making it perfect for seniors with serious conditions.

The simplified-issue policy requires only basic health history questions, making it a great fit for those with manageable conditions who want to avoid a medical exam.

Seniors often pay more for life insurance, and many turn to Mutual of Omaha for coverage, having trusted the brand for decades.

The company’s strong direct mail program and knowledgeable agents specializing in the senior market have cemented its reputation.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Discounted rates for elderly individuals in South Carolina
  • Provides tranquility to the elderly with competent representatives.
  • The company's financial situation is sound.
Drawbacks
  • Higher proportion of complaints relative to certain competitors.
  • The number of agents in South Carolina trails behind many other major insurance firms.

Best For Young Adults

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Transamerica focuses on providing affordable life insurance plans that appeal to young adults. Recognizing that younger individuals tend to be more budget-conscious, especially when it comes to life insurance, Transamerica has made sure its policies are reasonably priced to fit their financial needs.

The company also built a website that’s simple to use and packed with helpful information, specifically designed with younger consumers in mind. Transamerica believes life insurance should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget or age.

Young adults don’t always see the need for life insurance until major life events like marriage or parenthood. Even so, Transamerica targets this group because their lower mortality rates make them a profitable demographic.

Among the companies we reviewed, Transamerica ranked the lowest in customer service, likely due to their reliance on independent agents who might not always provide high-quality service.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Access term life insurance with online buying options.
  • Policy amounts can reach $10 million.
  • Qualifying applicants can secure up to $2 million in coverage without a medical assessment.
Drawbacks
  • The smallest sum assured for term life insurance is $25,000.
  • Achieves lower customer satisfaction ratings compared to competitors

Factors That Impact The Cost Of Your Life Insurance In South Carolina

Several factors determine the cost of life insurance in South Carolina:

  • The insurance provider you select
  • Your age
  • Your gender
  • Your health status
  • Smoking habits
  • Your credit score
  • Any additional policy options

Typically, men may incur higher premiums than women, reflecting their shorter lifespans. Smokers often pay more due to health risks. Furthermore, South Carolina insurance providers may take your credit score into account when determining rates.

Including additional features like a disability waiver or child riders can also raise your policy’s total cost.

How To Find The Best Life Insurance Company For You

When seeking life insurance in South Carolina, it's crucial to understand that one plan may not suit everyone. That's why we evaluate several insurers and identify excellence in various categories. To discover the best life insurance for your specific needs, follow these three steps:

Assess the amount of coverage that meets your requirements. Many insurance providers offer “life insurance calculators” online to help determine the appropriate coverage amount.

1

Select three companies for examination. It’s important to compare life insurance companies, taking into account their rates and financial stability. Lower rates are important, but they’re ineffective if your insurer doesn’t honor claims.

2

Apply for insurance coverage promptly. Many individuals researching life insurance fail to finish their purchase. That’s why it’s crucial to act quickly when purchasing life insurance. Your family’s financial security is on the line.

3

Largest Life Insurance Companies In South Carolina

There are numerous life insurance providers in South Carolina. Here are the top five, ordered by their market share.

Company Market Share
New York Life 6.3%
Northwestern Mutual 6.1
MassMutual 4.2
Primerica 1.9
Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance 1.8

Average Cost Of Life Insurance In South Carolina For Females

Company Rates for $250,000 Coverage Rates for $632,000 Coverage
Mass Mutual $10 $15
Transamerica $10 $16
Nationwide $11 $15
Mutual of Omaha $12 $15
State Farm $17 $28

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

Average Cost Of Life Insurance In South Carolina For Males

Company Rates for $250,000 Coverage Rates for $632,000 Coverage
MassMutual $10 $17
Nationwide $11 $16
Mutual of Omaha $12 $17
Transamerica $16 $30
State Farm $19 $33

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

Average Life Insurance Rates In South Carolina For Young Adults

Company Average Monthly Cost
Transamerica $7
Nationwide $8
Mutual of Omaha $9
GEICO $11
Haven $13

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

Average Life Insurance Rates In South Carolina For Seniors

Company Monthly Cost
Mutual of Omaha $48
GEICO $43
Nationwide $49
Haven $46
Prudential $53

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

Average Life Insurance Rates In South Carolina For Smokers

Company Average Monthly Cost
Nationwide $35
MassMutual $30
Mutual of Omaha $33
State Farm $39
Haven $24

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

If you’re a smoker in the market to purchase life insurance, you will learn that your rates are going to be quite a bit higher than those of nonsmokers. If you haven’t smoked for one to two years or longer, you might be able to save some money by comparing rates of different life insurance carriers.

This is up to the insurance company’s discretion, but remember that some insurers will charge higher rates if you’ve ever smoked at all, even if you’ve quit. By doing some research into insurance providers in your state, and comparing their rates along with coverage, you can at least get the best price available.

You’ll probably be required to have a paramedical exam as well as a blood test to prove that you don’t have nicotine in your bloodstream.

How Much Life Insurance Do You Need In South Carolina?

The amount of life insurance you should have varies depending on your situation. Homeowners generally require more coverage than renters. If you have dependents, like children, you may need a higher level of protection.

Insurance agents typically recommend obtaining coverage that is 10 to 20 times your annual salary to ensure adequate financial security for your family. For example, if you earn $75,000 annually, you might need coverage from $750,000 to $1.5 million.

South Carolina Life Insurance Laws To Know

If you’re looking into life insurance in South Carolina, understanding the state’s regulations is crucial to protect your policy. Here are the key laws you should know:

Contestable Period

South Carolina law allows life insurance companies to reject claims if they find false or misleading information on the application within the first two years of the policy’s start date. Such discrepancies cease to impact claims after this initial period.

Free Look Period

Upon receiving your life insurance policy, you’re given 10 days to review it. If you decide during this period that it’s not suitable, you can return it without any penalty and receive a complete refund of the premiums paid.

Grace Period For Missed Payments

Missing a payment in South Carolina? You’ve got a 30-day grace period to make things right. Pay within this timeframe to keep your coverage uninterrupted.

Time Allowable To Settle A Claim

Beneficiaries are required to file a claim with their insurer to receive benefits. South Carolina mandates that life insurance companies settle claims within 30 days of submission.

Our Methodology

The approach we took to select the top life insurance companies was comprehensive and deliberate. We assessed customer service, product selection, pricing, and online functionality. Drawing from my experience in life insurance sales and interactions with other agents, I gained valuable insights into their products and services. Our choices were not solely guided by price, except in the "Best for Cheapest Life Insurance" category. We believe each company excels in its own way, highlighting that price should not be the only factor in choosing life insurance.

53

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Industry Experience

19

Brands Reviewed

22+

Research Hours

FAQs

Is life insurance more expensive in South Carolina?

The cost of life insurance in South Carolina is similar to that in other states. Insurers could increase premiums if they’ve paid out more claims than they planned for.

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

Research indicates that MassMutual provides the best value in South Carolina for a $1 million, 10-year term life insurance policy, priced at $29 per month.

What is the average monthly cost of life insurance in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, a 30-year-old man can obtain life insurance coverage worth $250,000 for as little as $10 per month. Similarly, a woman of the same age might pay $11 monthly.

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