When discussing monthly charges, one usually mentions visible perks: perhaps a complimentary coffee. A subscription to Netflix. The bill for your phone or internet. These are easy to understand because you get something right away.

But then there’s term insurance. You pay for it every month, and you don’t get a box, a receipt full of goodies, or even a service you use daily. That’s why many people wonder, “What am I really buying with this money?”