Do some comparison shopping, and don't be rushed into a fast decision. Be on guard as many life insurance agents are expert at forcing a quick decision. They are smart enough to know if you think about it long enough, you may start understanding it, and perhaps rejecting their proposals and seeking better options. Make sure any company you consider has high ratings in the recognized and reputable financial rating services. Depending how cautious and conservative you want to be, you can decide how many ratings below the top rating is acceptable.
Smart buyers insist on companies with the high ratings.
There are five widely used systems. It has a rating system that includes fifteen categories. One rule of thumb suggested by the Insurance Forum, an widely followed newsletter, is to insist on high ratings from at least two of the four rating services which it follows. It has various definitions of high ratings that vary from one service to another. Ask the company or agent for the financial rating of the insurer and what it means.