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Allstate Whole Life Insurance vs Colonial Penn Guaranteed Issue A Comprehensive Comparison for Smart Choices

  • sbradshaw0
  • Dec 1, 2025
  • 3 min read

Choosing the right whole life insurance policy can be confusing, especially when two popular options promise coverage without health questions. Allstate Whole Life Insurance and Colonial Penn Guaranteed Issue both offer no medical exams or health questions, but they differ significantly in coverage, cost, and benefits. This post breaks down these differences to help you make a smart choice for your family’s future.


Eye-level view of a family reviewing insurance documents at a kitchen table
Family reviewing insurance options at home

Coverage Amount and Waiting Periods


One of the biggest differences between Allstate and Colonial Penn is the coverage amount you can select and when your beneficiaries receive the full benefit.


  • Allstate Whole Life Insurance lets you choose coverage from $10,000 up to $80,000. This means you can pick a plan that better fits your financial needs and the amount your family will receive tax-free.

  • Colonial Penn Guaranteed Issue caps coverage at $25,000, which may not be enough to cover final expenses in many cases.

  • Colonial Penn also has a 2 or 3-year waiting period before the full death benefit is paid out. During this time, if the insured passes away, the beneficiary may only receive premiums paid plus interest.

  • Allstate offers day 1 coverage with no waiting period, so your family gets the full benefit immediately upon your passing.


This difference is crucial if you want peace of mind knowing your loved ones will have immediate financial support.


Cost Comparison and Value


Cost is a major factor when choosing life insurance, especially for guaranteed issue policies where premiums tend to be higher.


  • The $9.95 monthly premium advertised by Colonial Penn is actually for a $1,000 face amount. This amount is very low and unlikely to cover even basic funeral costs.

  • Allstate’s whole life plans, despite offering much higher coverage, are generally more affordable than Colonial Penn’s higher coverage options.

  • A unique feature of Allstate is the ability for a mom or grandmother to add coverage for up to 5 grandchildren, each with $20,000 coverage for only an additional $9.10 total per month. This is a cost-effective way to protect multiple family members under one policy.


Choosing Allstate means you get more coverage for less money and the flexibility to protect more family members.


Close-up view of a calculator and insurance policy documents on a desk
Calculator and insurance papers showing cost comparison

Benefits and Policy Features


Beyond coverage and cost, the features of each policy impact how useful they are for your family’s needs.


  • Allstate Whole Life Insurance builds cash value over time, which you can borrow against if needed. This adds a financial safety net beyond just the death benefit.

  • The coverage amount you select with Allstate is guaranteed to be paid out tax-free to your beneficiaries.

  • Colonial Penn’s guaranteed issue policy is simpler but lacks cash value growth and has the waiting period that limits immediate benefit.

  • Allstate’s ability to cover multiple grandchildren under one policy is a rare feature that can simplify family insurance planning.


These features make Allstate a more flexible and valuable option for many families.


High angle view of a family tree chart with insurance coverage amounts
Family tree chart showing insurance coverage distribution

Who Should Consider Each Policy?


  • Choose Allstate Whole Life Insurance if:

- You want immediate coverage with no waiting period.

- You need coverage above $25,000.

- You want to include multiple family members like grandchildren.

- You want a policy that builds cash value over time.

- You want a cost-effective plan with flexible coverage options.


  • Choose Colonial Penn Guaranteed Issue if:

- You only need a small amount of coverage (up to $25,000).

- You are okay with a waiting period before full benefits are paid.

- You prefer a very simple policy with no medical questions.


Final Thoughts on Making the Right Choice


When comparing Allstate Whole Life Insurance and Colonial Penn Guaranteed Issue, the key differences are coverage limits, waiting periods, cost, and added benefits. Allstate offers more coverage options, immediate protection, and the ability to cover multiple family members at a reasonable cost. Colonial Penn’s policy is more limited in coverage and comes with a waiting period that may delay financial support to your family.


For those looking for a policy that truly protects their loved ones from day one and offers flexibility in coverage amounts, Allstate stands out as the smarter choice. Consider your family’s needs, budget, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your beneficiaries will receive the full benefit without delay.


Start by requesting quotes from both companies and comparing the exact premiums and coverage options available to you. This will help you make an informed decision that fits your unique situation.


 
 
 

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