Why women need life insurance.

• Position: Mortality

As women redefine their roles, they have more options than ever, from full-time careers to being homemakers, with stops nearly everywhere in between. While females are achieving an unprecedented work-life balance, a piece of the puzzle that is missing more often than not is life insurance.

While other types of insurance, such as health, auto, and homeowners are top of mind, life insurance tends to slip through the cracks. According to the Life Insurance and Market Research Association, Eagen, Minn., 48% of women are without any type of life insurance. However, they really should rethink that position. Here is why, indicates Brian Greenberg, president of True Blue Life Insurance, Inc., Scottsdale, Ariz.:

* "If your income helps to support you, your children, and/or your partner, a life insurance policy will provide financial support for them in the case of your death. This can help cover not only the cost of the funeral and anything related to it, but with everyday living expenses. Of course, it is unpleasant to think about and plan for your own death, but it is a responsible way to make sure your family does not have to worry about such things on top of having to cope with your loss."

* "You provide financial value, regardless of your employment or marital status. Today, many women are making more money...