Life insurance, voluntary benefits important factors for workers

Workers feel as though life insurance will play a factor in the next five years.

Voluntary benefits, including disability and life insurance, will play a significant role for workers in the next five years, according to a recent survey conducted by Harris Interactive.

Of the full-time employees who take part in disability, health or life insurance programs offered by their employers, 82 percent said they thought these benefits would be important in the next five years. However, the poll also showed workers are afraid these offers may disappear during that time.

"Concern that employers will stop offering certain benefits grew from 34 percent who are currently concerned to 48 percent who expect this to be a concern five years from now," a release based on the survey, which was commissioned by an insurance company, said.

Life insurance can provide consumers with a number of financial advantages. For example, a death benefit can provide for a family should its primary income earner pass away.

Insurance groups recommend consumers examine their life insurance policies every year, as their needs could change. Getting married, buying a home or having children could all increase the amount of coverage a person should have.