11/18/2025
⭐ DIME Method: How to Calculate Life Insurance Needs
(Debt • Income • Mortgage • Education)
The DIME Method is one of the simplest and most effective ways to determine how much life insurance a family truly needs. It helps ensure that, if something happens, your loved ones will be financially protected and able to maintain their lifestyle.
⚠️D — Debt
Include any debts that would need to be paid off immediately so your family is not burdened.
Examples:
✅️Credit cards
✅️Personal loans
✅️Car loans
✅️Student loans
✅️Medical bills
✅️Taxes owed
Formula:
👉 Add up all outstanding debts (except your mortgage — that comes later).
⚠️I — Income (Income Replacement)
The goal is to replace your income for a certain number of years so your family can continue living comfortably.
Most families choose 10 years of income replacement, but it can be adjusted based on age, job stability, and children’s ages.
Formula:
👉 Annual Income × Number of Years Your Family Will Need Support
Example:
If you make $60,000 and want to replace income for 10 years:
➡️ $60,000 × 10 = $600,000
⚠️M — Mortgage
Protect your home by ensuring your mortgage can be fully paid off.
Formula:
👉 Remaining balance on your mortgage.
Example:
If you still owe $250,000 on the home, include the full $250,000.
⚠️E — Education (Children’s College Costs)
Estimate how much you want to set aside for your children’s education.
Average cost per child varies, but a good planning guideline is:
Public college: $80,000–$120,000 total
Private college: $150,000–$250,000 total
Formula:
👉 Average cost per child × Number of children.
‼️‼️⭐ Why the DIME Method Works
✔ Simple
✔ Clear and easy for clients to understand
✔ Covers ALL major financial responsibilities
✔ Prevents families from being underinsured
✔ Helps clients identify realistic coverage needs
Dali Josipovic
678-776-1395/678-221-7953