Alternatives and fit

The decision begins with the job of the money: protection, a near-term reserve, long-term growth, or financing. A single product does not automatically solve all four well.

Compare realistic alternatives using the same dates, cash contributions, coverage needs, and risk assumptions. Give both approaches credit for additional saving; give both responsibility for their debt and expenses.

A useful review can lead to a policy, a smaller commitment, a different approach, or a decision to wait. The purpose of comparison is to clarify the choice, not to force a predetermined answer.