INVESTMENT

What prompts an insurer to deny coverage? The reasons for rejection fall into a handful of categories, but they all boil down to one maddening fact: Companies don't like to sell insurance to people who are likely to use it.

For most people, the right type of life insurance can be summed up in a single word: term. But before we explain why, it's important to understand the differences between the most common types of insurance available. Our glossary1 can help with that, and decipher some of the more common insurance lingo.

Insurance agents may have a less-than-golden reputation as a group, but when you think about it, this stereotype is mostly based on sales practices. Nowadays, with Internet resources at your disposal, you can educate yourself to avoid shady sales practices and select an agent that offers real value. It comes down to personal preference.

I just read the Q&A titled Risk of rolling over 401(k) with company stock, and part of it confused me. I am 25 years old. My company matches my 401(k) contributions with company stock. Are there large fees and tax issues with converting my company stock to other higher risk stocks? It isn't a huge problem for me at the moment as my company stock consistently makes 8 percent to 9 percent, but this may not be the case for everyone. Please help!