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Term Plan with Return of Premium

A Term Plan with Return of Premium (TROP) is a life insurance policy that offers dual benefits—financial protection and savings. It provides a death benefit to your nominee if you pass away during the policy term. However, if you survive the term, the total premiums you’ve paid are refunded, making it a no-loss proposition.

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  • Updated on: May 21, 2025
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What is a Term Plan with Return of Premium (TROP)?

A Term Insurance Plan with Return of Premium is a type of life insurance policy that offers life cover and returns the premiums paid if the policyholder survives the policy term. In this way, it provides protection and savings, unlike a standard term plan offering life cover without any maturity benefit.

For example, if you take a return of premium term life insurance policy for 20 years and survive the policy duration, all the premiums you paid over the years will be refunded at the end of the term. However, if something unfortunate happens within the policy period, your beneficiaries will still receive the life cover amount, providing them financial security

A term insurance with return of premium is ideal for those who want life insurance protection but prefer to repay the money they’ve invested if they outlive the policy.

How Does Term Insurance Plan with Return of Premium Work?

When you buy term insurance with return of premium, you pay premiums for a specific duration, usually 5 to 30 years. If the policyholder passes away during this period, the beneficiaries receive the sum assured. However, if the policyholder survives, they get back the total premiums paid, often with added benefits like interest or bonuses, depending on the policy.

The dual benefit of a term plan, along with maturity benefit and return of premium, makes term insurance with return of premium highly advantageous.

Let’s take the example of Ms Asha, a 25-year-old who opted for a term insurance with return of premium with an annual premium of ₹20,000, a sum assured of ₹80 lakh, and a policy term of 20 years. In this case, Ms Asha has to pay ₹20,000 every year for 20 years.

  • Scenario 1: If she passes away during the policy term, her nominees will receive ₹80 lakh as a death benefit, ensuring her family’s financial security in her absence.
  • Scenario 2: If Ms Asha survives the 20-year term, she will get back the total premiums she paid, which amounts to ₹4,00,000 (₹20,000 x 20 years), along with possible interest or bonuses, depending on her policy.

This structure allows her to benefit from both life insurance protection and savings, making term insurance with return of premium an ideal option. Such a plan is also called money back term life insurance and is ideal for people who want life protection but also wish to secure their premium amount if nothing happens to them.

Who can Buy Term Insurance with Return of Premium (TROP)?

Term insurance with return of premium is an excellent option for those who want to protect their loved ones in the event of their untimely demise while also receiving a refund of their premiums at the end of the policy term. You can buy such a plan if you are:

Single

For single individuals, term insurance with return of premium (TROP) offers a smart, dual-purpose financial strategy. While life insurance may not seem necessary initially, thinking ahead is key. Life is unpredictable, and a TROP plan ensures that any future dependents, like aging parents or a spouse, are financially protected in case of an untimely event.

Take Ramesh, a 28-year-old professional without dependents. By choosing TROP, he’s securing coverage for the future, ensuring his parents or a future spouse would receive the sum assured. If he completes the policy term without claims, he gets his premiums back, turning it into a smart saving tool. This way, Ramesh protects his loved ones while getting peace of mind and saving money.

Married

Term insurance with return of premium offers protection and financial stability for married couples, especially those building a future together. With shared financial responsibilities like home loans, car payments, and lifestyle costs, a sudden loss of income could be devastating. TROP is like term insurance with money back that ensures that even if one partner passes away during the term, the other will receive the sum assured, offering crucial financial support during a difficult time.

Consider Sneha and Raj, a newly married couple. They have both started their careers and while they don’t yet have children, they are planning for the future. By taking a TROP plan, Raj can ensure that Sneha will be financially protected if anything happens to him. If Raj survives the policy tenure, his premiums are refunded, giving them a lump sum that they can use for plans like purchasing a home or investing in their children’s education. This dual benefit makes the return of premium plans attractive for married couples planning for protection and savings.

Married and Have Children

When you have children, the need for life insurance becomes even more critical as your financial responsibilities increase significantly. From covering daily expenses to securing their education and future, any loss of income can severely impact the family. A return of premium term plan is an excellent choice for parents who want to ensure their children’s future is secure while also getting a return on their investment if they outlive the policy term.

Take Ravi and Priya, parents of two young children. They want to ensure their children’s future is safe, especially with long-term goals like higher education in mind. By opting for a return of premium plan with a sum assured of ₹1 crore, they ensure that if something happens to either of them, the surviving spouse or the nominees (children) will receive enough funds to cover all major expenses, including education. If both survive the term, they get back the premiums paid, which can then be reinvested or used to fund their children’s college education. This plan, therefore, provides peace of mind and financial returns.

Senior Citizen

Senior citizens may have different priorities when it comes to life insurance. A term policy with return of premium is ideal for seniors who still want life coverage but also want the reassurance that their premiums won’t go to waste if they outlive the policy.

For example, Mr. Sharma, a 62-year-old retiree, is looking for a plan that ensures his spouse is financially stable in his absence. He opts for a term policy with return of premium with a 10-year term. If he passes away during this period, his wife will receive the sum assured, allowing her to cover any medical bills or living expenses without financial strain. If Mr. Sharma survives the term, his premiums will be refunded, providing them with a lump sum they can use for medical care, travel, or as a buffer for unexpected costs. Term policy with return of premium combines life insurance with a savings element for senior citizens, making it a practical choice.

Benefits of Term Insurance with Return of Premium

Term policy with return of premium offers a unique blend of life insurance and savings, making it an attractive choice for those seeking comprehensive financial security. Unlike standard term plans, term policy with return of premium provides a safety net for your loved ones in case of an unfortunate event and ensures that the premiums you’ve paid are returned to you if you outlive the policy term.

Here is a closer look at the return of premium term insurance benefits:

Maturity Benefit or Survival Benefit

One of the standout features of a Term Plan with Return of Premium is the maturity benefit, also known as the survival benefit. Unlike traditional term insurance, where no amount is paid if the policyholder survives the term, a TROP refunds the total premiums paid, excluding taxes and rider charges, at the end of the policy tenure. This ensures that your investment doesn't go unused and provides a financial cushion that can be used for future goals such as retirement, a child’s education, or even a planned expense. It’s an ideal solution for those who want insurance protection along with a guaranteed return of their premiums.

Sum Assured

The term policy with return of premium gives a lesser sum insured amount than a pure protection plan because the policyholder receives their premium refund. It combines protection with a savings element, providing a balance between coverage and financial security. The lower sum assured is offset by the certainty of getting your money back, giving policyholders the peace of mind that they will either be covered or compensated.

Surrender Value

The surrender value of term insurance under a Return of Premiums plan varies depending on the policyholder’s payment method. The surrender value is offered more for single premium policies where the entire insurance premium is paid at the time of application. Insurance companies calculate the surrender value based on several variables.

Death Benefit

In TROP, when the insured individual passes away during the policy term, the death benefit is offered to the policy beneficiary as the sum assured amount. The sum guaranteed is determined by the kind of coverage and the premium payment method selected by the policyholder when the policy was purchased.

Additional Rider Benefits

TROP plans offer the flexibility to include riders like critical illness coverage, accidental death benefits, and premium waivers. These add-ons enhance the policy, delivering tailored and comprehensive protection against different uncertainties.

Features of a Term Plan with Return of Premium

When selecting the term plan with return of premium, it's important to understand its various built-in benefits. These features offer a balance between protection and savings, setting it apart from standard term insurance plans. Here's a detailed comparison presented in a structured table format:

Feature Description
Affordability A term plan with return of premium returns all paid premiums (excluding taxes and rider charges) as maturity benefits. Additionally, these refunds are tax-exempt, making the plan a cost-efficient choice.
Premium Payment Options Choose from multiple options under the term insurance with return of premium plan:

Single Pay: Pay the total premium in one go.
Regular Pay: Pay at regular intervals (annually, semi-annually, quarterly, or monthly).
Pay till 60: Pay premiums till age 60, while coverage continues up to 85.
Limited Pay: Pay premiums for a limited period while keeping the policy active for the full term.
Guaranteed Premium Return With TROP, policyholders are assured a full refund of premiums paid upon survival till the end of the term (excluding extra rider premiums), providing financial reassurance.
Maturity Benefit Survival till the policy term's end ensures a maturity benefit equal to the total premium paid, safeguarding the investment made in the term life insurance with return of premium.
Surrender Value If the policyholder decides to exit early, the plan offers a surrender value, calculated based on the premium type:

Single Pay: Eligible for surrender value after premium payment.
Limited/Regular Pay: Eligible after paying premiums for at least 2 years.
Paid-Up Option Designed for non-earning individuals, this option allows continuation of the return of premium term life insurance with reduced cover if premiums can no longer be paid. However, a minimum number of premiums must be paid to activate this feature.

Why Should You Choose a Term Plan with Return of Premium Option?

A term insurance return of premium plan not only ensures life protection but also secures your invested premiums, making it a dual-benefit offering. Here are some compelling reasons to consider this type of insurance:

1. Offers Refund of Premium Upon Surviving the Policy term

Unlike traditional term plans that only offer death benefits, this plan ensures that if you outlive the policy term, you receive back all the premiums paid (excluding taxes and extra charges for riders). This means that your money is not lost, even if you don’t end up claiming the cover, offering both peace of mind and a savings component.

2. Coverage Against Life-Threatening Illnesses

The Kotak e-Term Plan offers additional protection through the Kotak Critical Illness Plus Benefit Rider. Upon diagnosis of any of the 37 listed critical illnesses, a lump sum payout equivalent to the Rider Sum Assured is made. The base policy continues even after this payout. In the event of an angioplasty, a minimum of ₹5 lakhs or the Base Rider Sum Assured is paid, while coverage for the remaining illnesses stays active. The rider terminates once the full benefit is paid or the rider term ends, whichever comes first. This ensures timely financial support during health emergencies.

3. Option to Increase Coverage According to Life Stage

A term plan with return of premium allows flexibility to increase your life cover as you progress through major milestones such as marriage or the birth of a child. By opting for this feature at the start, you can ensure that your insurance adapts to your changing responsibilities and provides adequate protection throughout your life.

4. Benefits Under MWPA

If the plan is endorsed under the Married Women's Property Act (MWPA), it ensures that the policy benefits, both the life cover and the survival refund, are legally protected and can only be claimed by your nominated beneficiaries (spouse and children). This adds an extra layer of financial security for your family, shielding the benefits from any external claims.

Difference Between Pure Term Insurance and Term Plans with Return of Premium

While buying a Term Plan with a Return of Premium, it is important to know how it differs from pure term insurance. Let us take a quick look at the difference between these two:

Feature Pure Term Insurance Term Insurance Plan with Return of Premium
Death Benefit Paid to the beneficiary if the policyholder dies during the term Paid to the beneficiary if the policyholder dies during the term
Maturity Benefit No payout Premiums paid back (usually)
Premium Cost Lower Higher
Focus Pure protection Protection with some savings element
Suitability Those who prioritize affordability and maximizing coverage Those who want guaranteed return of premiums and some protection

How to Choose the Best Term Insurance with Return of Premium?

Choosing the best Term Insurance with Return of Premium involves several key considerations. Follow these steps to select the best term plan with return of premium:

  • Determine how much coverage you need based on your financial goals, dependents, personal circumstances, and future financial goals. You can accordingly look for term insurance for women, term insurance for self employed, and more.
  • Compare the premiums of different plans. Please note that premiums will depend on the sum assured. For instance, 1 crore term insurance, 2 crore term insurance, and 25 lakh term insurance will have significantly different premium obligations. Ensure that the premiums are within your budget without compromising on the coverage amount.
  • Check if the insurance company offers flexible premium payment options (monthly, quarterly, annually).
  • Understand how much of the premiums will be returned at the end of the policy term if no claim is made.
  • Choose an insurer with strong financial stability, high claim settlement ratio, and good ratings from agencies like SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India), CRISIL (Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited), etc.
  • Consider additional riders, such as critical illness, accidental death, or disability, that can be added to your term plan for enhanced coverage.
  • Look for features like convertibility (converting term insurance to whole life insurance) and renewability (renewing the policy without medical exams).
  • Verify the duration of the free look period, during which you can review the policy and cancel it if it does not meet your expectations without incurring penalties.
  • Consult with a financial advisor or insurance agent for personalized advice based on your financial situation and goals.

Final Thoughts

Having options is always a good thing, and a Term Insurance Plan with a Return of Premium is an excellent addition to the array of policies available. It offers the much-needed financial security for your family and the potential for a financial reward if you survive the policy term. So, before deciding, consult with a financial advisor, assess your unique requirements, and make an informed choice that secures your future and ensures peace of mind.

FAQs on Term Plan with Return of Premium


1

What is a Term Plan with Return of Premium?

A Term insurance plan with return of premium combines life insurance (death benefit) with a savings element. You get a payout of your total premiums if you survive the policy term.



2

Is a Term Plan with a Return of Premium more expensive than a regular term plan?

TROP premiums are higher than regular-term plans because you get your money back if you outlive the policy duration.



3

Who should consider buying a Term Plan with a Return of Premium?

People who want life insurance protection and their premiums back if they outlive the policy term can opt for term insurance with return of premium.


4

Can I get a loan against a Term Plan with a Return of Premium?

Getting a loan against a Return of Premium plan depends on the specific plan and insurer. You have to check with your insurance company.


5

Are any riders available with Term Plans with Return of Premium?

Similar to regular term plans, riders offering additional coverage (disability, critical illness) may be available.


6

Are premiums paid for Term Plan with Return of Premium tax-deductible?

Like any other life insurance, premiums paid for your term insurance plan with return of premium can be deducted from your taxable income under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961, with a maximum annual benefit of ₹1.5 lakhs.

Amit Raje
Written By :
Amit Raje

Amit Raje is an experienced marketer who has worked in various Fintechs and leading Financial companies in India. With focused experience in Digital, Amit has pioneered multiple digital commerce in India. Now, close to two decades later, he is the vice president and head of the D2C business department. He masters the skill of strategic management, also being certified in it from IIMA. He has challenged his challenges and contributed his efforts in this journey of digital transformation.

Amit Raje
Reviewed By :
Prasad Pimple

Prasad Pimple has a decade-long experience in the Life insurance sector and as EVP, Kotak Life heads Digital Business. He is responsible for developing user friendly product journeys, creating consumer awareness and helping consumers in identifying need for life insurance solutions. He has 20+ years of experience in creating and building business verticals across Insurance, Telecom and Banking sectors

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The information herein is meant only for general reading purposes and the views being expressed only constitute opinions and therefore cannot be considered as guidelines, recommendations or as a professional guide for the readers. The content has been prepared on the basis of publicly available information, internally developed data and other sources believed to be reliable. Recipients of this information are advised to rely on their own analysis, interpretations & investigations. Readers are also advised to seek independent professional advice in order to arrive at an informed investment decision. Further customer is the advised to go through the sales brochure before conducting any sale. Above illustrations are only for understanding, it is not directly or indirectly related to the performance of any product or plans of Kotak Life.

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