What Is The Cash Value Of Life Insurance? 
Cash value of life insurance is an integral part of whole life and some universal life insurance policies . As funds accrue within policies in place for a long period of time , they may be used to help pay premiums or may be borrowed out for emergencies . Note that most policies of this type are structured to pay only the death benefit minus any borrowing . In some cases use of this money may cause a policy to lapse , so before borrowing make sure you understand the downside . Speak to your agent and ask for an illustration showing how the policy will perform if you borrow . 