Common Gap. DEFINITION of 'Common Gap'. A price gap found on a price chart for an asset. These gaps are brought about by normal market forces and, as the name implies, are very common. They are represented graphically by a non-linear jump or drop from one point on the chart to another point. In general, there is no major event that precedes this type of gap.
Most term life insurance policies sold today come with a conversion feature that allows you to convert some or all of your term life insurance policy to a permanent policy like whole life, universal life or variable life. Some term policies also allow you to convert your term policy to a permanent policy in phases.
Term life insurance provides death benefit protection for a period of one or more years. The death benefit of the policy is paid only if the insured dies during that period. If the insured lives beyond the term period, no death benefit is paid. Typically, there are no cash values or loan values for term life insurance. 1  When should I consider buying a term life policy? Term insurance is generally used when the need for death benefit protection is temporary or if you are unable to afford the premiums of a permanent life insurance policy.