11/05/2026
In a VUL (Variable Universal Life) policy, the fund value is not just for growth—it plays a crucial role in keeping the policy alive.
As time goes on, especially in limited-pay plans (e.g., 10-pay, 15-pay), premiums may stop, but policy charges continue for life (insurance cost, admin fees, riders). This is where the fund value comes in:
• If you miss payments or your policy is already “fully paid,” the charges are automatically deducted from the fund value
• In later years, as the cost of insurance increases with age, the charges can even become higher than your premium—again, the fund value bridges the gap
That’s why the fund value is primarily a sustainability buffer, not just an investment.
⚠️ Withdrawals: Use with caution
When you withdraw, you’re essentially reducing the number of units in your policy. Fewer units = less fund value available to cover future charges.
If the fund value gets depleted:
• The policy can lapse or terminate
• You lose coverage when you might need it most—like before a critical illness diagnosis or death claim
👉 This is why it’s important to know your upcoming charges.
Before making any withdrawal, estimate:
• How much will be deducted in the next few years?
• Will the remaining fund value still be enough to sustain the policy?
Withdrawals should be done with a clear buffer, not just based on current fund value.
⚠️ Top-ups are not always guaranteed
Many people think they can just “add money later,” but top-ups, in most companies, require insurability:
• You must still be in good health
• This is because top-ups often come with additional insurance coverage, not just investment
If your health condition has changed, you may no longer qualify.
In short:
A VUL fund value is designed to protect your policy first, grow second.
Plan withdrawals carefully, understand your future charges, and don’t rely on top-ups as a fallback—they’re not guaranteed.