Term Insurance with Return of Premium (TROP)

Term Insurance with Return of Premium (TROP) is similar to a standard term insurance policy, with one key difference: it offers the added benefit of returning the premiums paid. In simple terms, a TROP provides financial protection to your family in the event of your untimely death, just like a regular term insurance plan. However, if you survive the policy term, you get a refund of all the premiums you paid over the policy duration (policy term/tenure).

Term Insurance with Return of Premium (TROP) is similar to a standard term insurance policy, with one key difference: it offers the added benefit of returning the premiums paid. In simple terms, a TROP provides financial...
Term Insurance with Return of Premium (TROP) is similar to a standard term...
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What is a Term Insurance with Return of Premium (TROP)?

TROP (Term Insurance with Return of Premium) is a plan designed for those who want financial protection plus guaranteed returns of all the premiums paid. The policy term for TROP typically ranges from 5 to 30 years, and the premium is payable throughout the term. 

As mentioned earlier, TROP is quite similar to a standard term insurance plan. In fact, it is a type of term insurance that offers life coverage for the insured’s beneficiaries and also provides a payout upon maturity.

This simply means that with a standard term life insurance policy, the beneficiaries receive a death benefit if the insured passes away during the policy term, but there is no payout if the insured survives the term. However, with TROP, the insured is entitled to receive a refund of the premiums paid at the end of the term, provided they survive the policy tenure.

Why is Term Insurance with Return of Premium Right for You?

In the world of life insurance, various plans exist to cater to different needs. This is because insurance requirements vary from person to person. Like other life insurance plans, term insurance with return of premium can be suitable for many individuals. Let’s see if you are one of those people who might need term insurance with return of premium to protect your loved ones.

  • If you want life protection with a payout upon maturity.
  • If the idea of premiums not returning with a traditional term plan bothers you, TROP eliminates that concern by ensuring your premiums are returned if no claim is made.
  • If you have long-term financial responsibilities, such as children’s education, home loans, TROP ensures your family stays financially protected. 
  • If you want tax deductions under Section 80C on premiums paid and Section 10(10D) on the maturity amount.
  • If you want flexible premium payment options and a lump sum return at the end. 

How Term Insurance with Return of Premium Works

Here’s how best term insurance with return of premium functions.

  • The policyholder pays a premium for the policy term, which can be anywhere between 5 to 30 years. 
  • If the policyholder's demise is during this policy term, their nominee will receive the sum assured as per their wishes. 
  • If they survive until the end of their chosen term, they will receive back all premiums paid, along with interest. 

For example, Radhika, a 30-year-old IT professional and the breadwinner for her family, chooses the best term insurance plan with return of premium, so that, if anything goes wrong, her husband and two young children are financially protected. She selects coverage of ₹1 crore for 30 years; the annual premium is ₹27,000. This plan ensures that death benefits are guaranteed. 

Here are the two possible scenarios:

Scenario 1: Radhika passes away during  the policy term

 

Result: Her family will receive the full sum assured of ₹1 crore as the death benefit.
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Family is financially protected with ₹1 crore.

Scenario 2: Radhika survives the 30-year policy term

 

Result: She will receive a refund of all premiums paid over the past 30 years.
In this case: ₹27,000 × 30 years = ₹8,10,000

No loss of premium, and financial discipline is rewarded.

No loss of premium, and financial discipline is rewarded.

Who Can Avail a Term Plan with Return of Premium?

A Term Plan with Return of Premium (TROP) is especially suitable for:

  • People with financial dependents, such as married people with children, unmarried individuals with dependent parents and siblings, and newly married couples with increasing financial responsibilities. 
  • First-time life insurance buyers, such as young professionals who want low-risk options.
  • Taxpayers who want tax-saving along with life insurance. 

What are the Benefits of Term Insurance with a Return of Premium?

Term Insurance with Return of Premium (TROP) offers several benefits to policyholders. Some of its key benefits are as follows.

Comprehensive Financial Protection

TROP offers life coverage to ensure your family is financially secure in case you’re not around. The sum assured can go a long way in helping with financial commitments, giving you peace of mind that your loved ones are well cared for. Choosing the best Term Plan with a Return of Premium adds an advantage for the policyholder, as it offers the potential for a refund of premiums if the policy term is completed without a claim.

Guaranteed Returns

Besides, life coverage with TROP entitles a policyholder to a refund. The return is generally the premiums paid, without interest or bonuses, unless specified in certain plans. 

Affordable Premiums

Term Insurance policies, including TROP, have some of the lowest premiums compared to other types of life insurance, such as whole life insurance and endowment plans. This makes them an affordable option for those with limited budgets and incomes.
 

Savings Component

The TROP plan encompasses a savings feature. . If the policyholder survives the Life Insurance Policy, then he or she will get his or her premiums back. This makes it suitable for people who want insurance coverage against their lives and save money in the long run. 

Tax Benefits

TROP provides tax deductions under Section 80C, and the maturity benefit under Section 10(10D) is tax-free if premiums do not exceed 10% of the sum assured. This makes it one of the best policies for tax savings, and in terms of returns, it stands out as the best Term Plan with return. 

Please Note: Tax benefits on life insurance are available under the old tax regime for premiums paid, but if you opt for the new tax regime, you will not be able to claim these deductions (e.g., under Section 80C). 

However, death benefits (sum assured) are tax-free under Section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, provided the premium paid is not more than 10% of the sum assured for policies issued after April 1, 2012. If you invest in a TROP plan and survive the policy term, you will receive a premium refund with no TDS. However, if you make a claim during the policy term (in case of death), TDS might apply, depending on the policy’s terms. 

Disadvantages of TROP (Term Plan with Return of Premium)

The following are some drawbacks of TROP (Term Plan with Return of Premium) policies:

  • Higher Premiums: TROP policies are costlier than traditional term life insurance, about 1.5 - 3 times. 
  • Limited Growth in Investment: Although TROP policies pay premiums back at the maturity of the term, they do not earn returns or interest in the long run. Your funds are locked up in the policy rather than being placed in funds that have higher returns, such as mutual funds or stocks.
  • Lower Coverage for the Same Premium: Because of the higher premiums, you can end up with lower coverage than a flexible term life policy for the same premium. This may mean less financial protection for your family in the event of an untimely death.
  • Complexity: TROP policies can be more complicated to understand than regular term plans because of the return-of-premium feature. 

Why Should You Opt for a Term Plan with Return of Premium?

Besides financial protection, guaranteed returns, and tax benefits, here are more reasons to choose a TROP:

Flexible Premium

Choose from monthly, quarterly, yearly, or limited-pay modes to suit your budget.

Long-Term Coverage

Life coverage is available for the full policy term, with added peace of mind through the return of premium.

Policy Revival Option

Most plans allow revival within a specified period.

Rider Options

Increase life coverage with add-ons like critical illness, accidental death, etc.

What are the Features of Term Plans with Return of Premium?

A term life insurance policy with return of premium gives you protection and savings. The following are its main features:

100% Return of Premium

Your premiums are completely refunded if you outlive the term.

Death Benefit

Your nominee receives the entire sum assured in case of your unfortunate demise within the policy term. 

Flexible Payment Options

You can pay annual, half-yearly, or monthly premiums.

Riders Available

Include additional coverage for critical illness, disability, or accidental death.

Tax Benefits

Avail tax deductions on premiums and tax-free maturity under Sections 80C and 10(10D).

How to Choose the Best Term Plan with Return of Premium?

Here are some useful tips for you to follow:

Compare Premiums

Look at the premiums of various insurers to find a pocket-friendly one that won't compromise on the benefits. This is because not all term plans with return on premium are the same.

Check the Claim Settlement Ratio

This informs you of how good the insurance company is at paying out claims. Choose an insurer with a higher claim settlement ratio.

Assess Rider Choices

Good TROP policies enable you to attach additional benefits, referred to as riders, such as critical illness cover, accidental death cover, or waiver of premium. Select a policy that enables you to personalise protection according to your needs.

Know the Policy Terms

Ensure you comprehend what you are paying for and what you will receive in return. Before purchase, consider the policy term, maturity benefits, exclusions, and refund rules.

See Reviews & Ratings

Read customer reviews and expert ratings on the internet. This will give you a true understanding of the insurer's service, claim process, and customer satisfaction.

How to Buy Term Insurance with Return of Premium Plan?

Buying a TROP plan is simple and can be done entirely online. Just follow these easy steps:

  1. Compare plans to the insurer's website or comparison site. Enter basic information, such as age, gender, income, lifestyle choices, and coverage amount.
  2. Select your policy duration (the length you wish the coverage to last) and sum assured (the financial protection your loved ones would require).
  3. When comparing various TROP plans, consider premiums, maturity benefits, and riders. Add riders according to your needs.
  4. Upload documents, such as your ID proof, income proof, and medical reports (if necessary), then pay online.
  5. Policy issued after verification. 

Note: The process above is a general guide for your understanding. The steps may vary slightly depending on the insurer you choose.

Differences Between Term Insurance Plan and Term Plan with Return of Premium?

Here’s a simple comparison table to help you understand the difference between a regular term plan and a term insurance return of premium policy:

FeatureTerm Insurance PlanTerm Insurance with Return of Premium
   
Maturity BenefitNoYes – all premiums returned
Premium CostLowHigher
Death BenefitYesYes
Ideal ForPure protection seekersThose who want returns + protection
Refund on SurvivalNoYes
Flexibility in PaymentsYesYes
Riders (Add-ons)AvailableAvailable

Why ACKO Life Does Not Offer Return of Premium – A Smarter Approach to Life Insurance

When choosing a life insurance policy, many people are drawn to the idea of Return of Premium (ROP) plans, which promise to refund the premiums paid if no claim is made. At ACKO Life, we’ve taken a different approach—we don’t offer Return of Premium policies. Here’s why we believe this is a better choice for you.

1. The Illusion of “Free” Insurance


ROP plans market themselves as “getting your money back,” making it seem like free insurance. However, the reality is different. Insurance companies must bake the cost of returning the premium into the premium itself, meaning:

  • You end up paying significantly higher premiums compared to a pure term insurance plan.
  • Insurers typically allocate a portion of policyholder premiums to low-risk instruments, such as government securities, to ensure stability and compliance with regulatory requirements. As a result, these funds may not generate high returns compared to other investment options.
  • Instead of real returns, you simply get back the money you paid over the years, with no interest or appreciation.

2. You Lose Out on Higher Returns

A simple comparison highlights this issue:

  • Pure Term Plan: A 30-year-old non-smoker can get ₹1 crore coverage for around ₹11,000 per year.
  • ROP Plan: The same individual may have to pay ₹27,000 per year to get their premiums refunded after 30 years. Now, with an ROP plan, you get back ₹8.1 lakh (₹27,000 × 30 years)

3. Limited Flexibility & Higher Opportunity Cost

With ROP plans, your money is locked in with the insurer for decades. If you need to change or discontinue the policy, you may lose all benefits or receive a heavily reduced surrender value. Instead, buying a low-cost term insurance plan and investing the difference elsewhere offers higher liquidity, better returns, and greater financial flexibility.

4. Case Study: Real-World Impact


Rahul’s Choice: Term Insurance vs. ROP Plan Rahul, a 30-year-old IT professional, had two options:

  • Option 1: Term Plan – Pay ₹11,000 per year and invest the savings.
  • Option 2: ROP Plan – Pay ₹27,000 per year, with a guaranteed refund.

5. ACKO Life’s Commitment: Affordability & Transparency


At ACKO Life, we aim to provide transparent, cost-effective life insurance. Hence, we ensure that our term life provides:

  • Lower premiums, so you get the most coverage at the best price.
  • Flexibility to increase or decrease your coverage amount at any time, based on your needs.
  • Pure protection, ensuring your family’s financial security without unnecessary costs.

The Smart Choice: Term Insurance + Smart Investing

Rather than overpaying for an ROP plan, we recommend:

  • Buying an affordable term insurance plan for maximum coverage.
  • Building wealth while staying protected.

At ACKO Life, we focus on what truly matters—affordable, high-quality insurance that works for you. While TROP policies may seem attractive, they come with trade-offs, such as higher premiums and lower flexibility. Choose smarter, invest better, and secure your future the right way.

Why Choose ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan?

The ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan provides your loved ones with a financially stable future, with the amount of money you choose for them. With an easy claim process and swift payouts, your loved ones can get the financial support they require without hassle during crucial times. The unique features of this term plan:

  • Adaptable Sum Assured: Increase or decrease your sum assured/coverage based on your life stages and changing needs.
  • Flexible Policy Tenure: Increase or decrease your policy duration as your financial dependents, loans, lifestyle and income change.
  • Flexible Payout Options: Choose whether to settle the claim with monthly payments or a one-time full payment.
  • Will Creation Service: Create your free digital will in minutes to safeguard your assets and legacy.
  • Affordable Premiums: Get comprehensive coverage with affordable premiums that are fair and budget-friendly.
  • Simple Claim Process: Easily purchase or make claims on your term plan with just a few steps.
  • Additional Riders Available: Additional riders are available to enhance the scope of your ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan coverage. They offer extra financial protection against risks like coverage for critical illnessesaccidental death, and even income support in case of a permanent disability
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ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan: Inflation Protection and Cost Savings Option

When you first buy the ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan, the premium rates for different coverage amounts are fixed based on your age at the time you start the policy.

  • If you're 30 years old in 2024 and buy a term plan with a ₹1 crore sum assured.
  • Later, in 2034, when you turn 40, you decide to increase the coverage to ₹2 crore.
  • The premium will be calculated as if you're a 40-year-old in 2024, not in 2034.
  • This protects you from paying higher premiums that would normally apply to a 40-year-old in 2034.
     

Market Comparison

In the last 4 years, term insurance premiums have increased by more than 40% on average. ACKO's Life Flexi Term Plan can potentially help you save up to 40% on premiums in the long run, assuming these historical price trends continue. Most market plans do not offer a similar lock-in mechanism for future premium hikes related to sum assured increases.

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TROP vs ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan

ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan is known for its flexibility in meeting individuals' varying needs. Refer to the table below to find out which plan best suits you.

Basis of ComparisonTROP (Term Return of Premium Plan)ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan
   
Coverage DurationFixed coverage for a specific term (e.g., 10, 15, 20 years). The policy expires at the end of the chosen term.Flexible coverage duration that allows policyholders to choose the length of the term. The term can be adjusted based on changing needs. 
PremiumsPremiums are generally higher than standard term plans because if the policyholder outlives the term, the premiums are repaid at the end of the term.Premiums are affordable and give comprehensive coverage throughout the selected term. 
FlexibilityOffers flexibility in terms of coverage amount and premium payment frequency, but the term duration is fixed and cannot be changed once chosen.Highly flexible in modifying coverage amounts, premium payments, and even the payout options during the policy term. Policyholders have more control over adapting to changing needs.
CostsPremiums are generally greater than regular term life insurance policies because of the return of premiums benefit.Less expensive premiums than TROP, emphasising affordability without sacrificing flexible protection throughout the chosen term.
PayoutUpon survival of the term, a refund of all premiums is paid to the policyholder. In the event of death before the end of the term, a lump sum death benefit is issued to beneficiaries.Provides a lump sum payout to beneficiaries if the policyholder passes away during the term. 
Good For IndividualsThose who prefer life coverage also wish for the return of premiums if they survive the policy. It's a mix of term and savings elements.Especially suitable for those in need of affordable term insurance, with the options to increase coverage and term durations based on changing needs.
Tax BenefitsPremiums paid are eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. The death benefit is tax-free under Section 10(10D). The premium payments made are deductible for tax under Section 80C, and the death benefit is also exempt from tax under Section 10(10D). 

*Tax benefits are subject to change in tax laws.

This comparison reveals the main differences between TROP and ACKO Life Flexi Term Plan, including coverage tenure, premiums, cash value, flexibility, and payout options. Understanding these differences will enable you to make better decisions regarding which plan is right for you.

Eligibility Criteria for Term Insurance with Return of Premium

Here are the eligibility criteria for TROP:

Minimum Age

You can buy a TROP at the age of 18 years and above.

Maximum Age

The maximum age to buy a Term Insurance policy is 70 years.

Maximum Sum Assured 

The maximum amount insured under this plan is ₹10 lakhs (1 million rupees).

Choosing Your Premium Payment Options: TROP

You can choose from the following premium payment options based on availability.

Annual Premium Payment

You can pay your premiums in one lump sum at the beginning of each year.

Half-Yearly Premium Payment

In this case, you will be charged twice a year for your insurance policy (i.e., once every six months).

Quarterly Premium Payment

You will pay your premiums every three months instead of annually or half-yearly.

Monthly Premium Payment

If this option is available for your term plan, it will allow you to pay monthly installments instead of being charged all at once when purchasing an insurance policy.

Claim process for Term Insurance with Return of Premium

The claim process for TROP is generally the same as for traditional TLI policies. Here are the general steps involved.

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Notify the insurance company

In the event of the policyholder's death, the beneficiary or legal representative must notify the insurance company as soon as possible. The insurance company may require documents such as a death certificate to process the claim.

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Filing the Claim Form

Once the insurance company receives notification, it will furnish a claim form. The beneficiary needs to fill this up and, according to what caused the death, attach pertinent documents such as medical reports or police statements. It then ensures that the claims are processed accurately and efficiently.

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Review and evaluation of the claim

The insurance company will review the claim form and supporting documents to determine if the claim is valid and covered under the policy. This may involve an investigation or review of the policyholder's medical history.

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Payment of benefits

In detail, after examining the claim, if accepted, the insurer pays the death benefit to the beneficiary. The return of Premium Term Life Insurance would refund tax-free all premiums paid, provided the policyholder survives the term. This would result in the best-term insurance plan with a return of premium, as it guarantees protection of finance both before and after the term period of insurance.

Remember that the claim process may vary with insurers. It is always a good idea to check the terms of your policy and contact your insurance company to get precise information about the procedure for claims.

Also Read: Life Insurance Claim Process and Required Documents

Frequently Asked Questions

Term life insurance policy with return of premium (TROP) is a type of standard term plan, where all premiums paid are returned if the policyholder survives the term.

The best term plan with return of premium depends on your needs, but top insurers offer premium return term insurance with low rates and flexible features.

TROP provides coverage based on age, health, and income. The best return of Premium Term Insurance provides flexible coverage from lower amounts to larger sums per individual needs.

TROP is an ideal choice for those who require life coverage and wish to receive the paid premiums back in case they outlive the policy term. However, before choosing the best term plan with a return of premium, budget and financial goals should be considered first.

Some TROP policies may include a conversion option, which allows the policyholder to convert the policy to Permanent Life Insurance later without needing a medical exam. However, this option may be subject to certain conditions and restrictions.

Term insurance return of premium offers life cover, tax benefits, and a premium back if you outlive the policy term.

When choosing a TROP policy, it's important to consider factors such as the length of the term, the amount of coverage, the premiums, and any additional features or riders that may be available. Working with a licensed insurance agent or financial advisor can help you choose the right policy for your needs and budget.

Yes, TROP insurance usually allows riders like critical illness, accidental death, and waiver of premium.

Unlike a traditional term plan, a TROP plan refunds all the premiums paid over the term if the insured person survives the policy term.

Yes, most premium return term insurance plans let you add riders for enhanced coverage.

Yes, term insurance with a return of premium is tax-exempt under Section 80C of the Indian Income Tax Act. The premium paid is deductible, lowering your income tax. Moreover, the death benefit is exempt from tax under Section 10 (10D).

Eligibility for term insurance with return usually includes age 18 to 65, Indian residency, and meeting insurer-specific health and income criteria.

Importance of Term Insurance in India

Term insurance policies provide pure risk coverage, ensuring that in the event of the policyholder's demise during the policy term, the beneficiaries receive the sum assured. It is wise to compare various plans, assess the claim settlement ratio of the insurance company, and read the policy documents to ensure that a particular term insurance plan suits your needs. 

While considering your life insurance plans in India, consider your objectives and the goals of your family. A term insurance calculator will give you the appropriate premium for your age, income, and other liabilities. Hence, if you seek a huge sum, the best term insurance of 1 crore will provide more than enough of a safety umbrella for your dependents.

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Written by Neviya Laishram

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Reviewed by Vaibhav Kumar Kaushik Author info Icon

A senior editor with years of expertise, she fine-tunes content that connects, converts, and builds trust. She transforms heavy life insurance concepts into clear, aha-moment reads. Writing is her passion, and thinking ahead is second nature. When not wrangling words, she’s crushing game levels because every challenge is a puzzle waiting to be solved.

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