How Do You Calculate Term Life Insurance Needs? 
That is a great question ! If you are going to use the term policy to cover a debt , like college expense , or your mortgage , then use that amount . If you are gambling on it covering your life , plan for 8-10 times your current salary , and cross your fingers that you and your demise time it well with your policy . Otherwise , all the money you put into the policy vanishes when it ends . Good luck , and thanks for asking ! 