There are several features you should look for when evaluating a term life insurance policy.

1. Frequency of premium adjustments. You can choose an annual premium that will remain fixed for the life of the policy or an adjustable plan that calls for payments to go up at certain intervals (such as once every five years). A fixed premium ensures that your payments will remain the same, and you won't have to go through medical evaluations as frequently to get the best rate. But you'll pay more for the policy in the early years than you would if you selected a plan with an adjustable premium. And if you want to change your amount of coverage, you'd be throwing money away if you dump a policy with a long-term premium guarantee.

2. Guaranteed renewability. This feature guarantees that the policy cannot be canceled because of poor health. Insist on it.