How much life insurance should I carry on myself?

Your income can be considered your family's most valuable asset because it allows you to obtain the necessities of life. Some day you may not be here to provide that income, yet the need for income may continue for those who are financially dependent upon you. Your need for life insurance and the amount required will depend on your personal and financial circumstances. If any of the following statements applies to you, you probably do need to consider life insurance:

• You have a spouse.
  
• You have dependent children.
  
• You have an aging parent or disabled relative who depends on you for support.
  
• Your retirement pension and savings are not enough to insure your spouse's future against a rising cost of living.
  
• You have a sizeable estate.
  
• You own a business.