Life insurance by state · SC
Life insurance in South Carolina
What South Carolina law gives you, which carriers quote in South Carolina, and how to get covered — from an independent agency licensed in South Carolina.
The short answer
South Carolina residents can choose from 10 final expense and 14 term life carriers we work with that quote in South Carolina. New policies typically come with a 10-day free look, and the state guaranty association backs life insurance death benefits up to $300,000.
Your protections in South Carolina
| Regulator | South Carolina Department of Insurance |
|---|---|
| Free-look period | Typically at least 10 days · At least 20 days when a replacement is involved; at least 31 days if solicited by a direct-response insurer rather than a licensed agent (S.C. Code § 38-63-220(b)) |
| Guaranty association | South Carolina Life and Accident and Health Insurance Guaranty Association: up to $300,000 death benefit, $300,000 cash value (overall per-person cap applies) |
| Community property state | No |
| State estate / inheritance tax | Estate tax: no · Inheritance tax: no |
Good to know in South Carolina
- Under S.C. Code § 38-63-220(f), if a lump-sum death benefit isn't paid within 30 days after proof of death and all necessary claim papers are submitted, the insurer must add interest at the legal rate from the date of death until paid. Source
- Preneed funeral contracts in South Carolina are regulated by the S.C. Department of Consumer Affairs (S.C. Code § 32-7-10 et seq.); sellers must be licensed and all money received must go into a trust account or a burial insurance policy. Source
Carriers we work with that quote in South Carolina
Final expense / burial: Aetna · American Amicable · American Home Life · Americo · Fidelity · Foresters · Mutual of Omaha · Royal Neighbors · Transamerica · UHL
Term life: American Amicable · Americo · Foresters · InstaBrain · John Hancock · Kansas City Life · Mutual of Omaha · National Life Group · Primerica · Protective · Royal Neighbors · SBLI · Transamerica · UHL
From our quoting system’s South Carolina results (September 2026). Product availability and rules vary by carrier and change over time.
How to get covered in South Carolina
- Figure out how much you need — final expense calculator or mortgage protection calculator.
- See typical prices by age — life insurance cost by age.
- Tell us your health history — we match you to the South Carolina carrier most likely to approve you at the best price (condition guides).
- Apply by phone with an e-signature — many decisions are instant or same-day.
Licensed in South Carolina. Compare dozens of carriers in one free call — no pressure.
Get my quotes → Call 586-343-1505Sources: Regulator · Guaranty association · Free-look rule · Estate/inheritance tax
Straight answers
Life insurance in South Carolina — FAQ
How long is the free-look period for life insurance in South Carolina?
New individual life insurance policies sold in South Carolina typically give you at least 10 days to review the policy and cancel for a full refund (At least 20 days when a replacement is involved; at least 31 days if solicited by a direct-response insurer rather than a licensed agent (S.C. Code § 38-63-220(b))). The exact window is printed on your policy’s first page.
What happens to my life insurance if the company fails in South Carolina?
The South Carolina Life and Accident and Health Insurance Guaranty Association protects South Carolina residents up to $300,000 in life insurance death benefits and $300,000 in cash value, subject to an overall per-person cap. It’s a backstop — choosing a financially strong carrier still matters.
Who regulates life insurance in South Carolina?
The South Carolina Department of Insurance. You can verify an agent’s license or file a complaint with them.
Can I buy life insurance in South Carolina by phone?
Yes. United Eagles Financial is licensed for life insurance in South Carolina; most applications are done by phone or video with an electronic signature.