Most conversations about term insurance start and end with: "Start young, get a lower premium." It's true — and it's also the least interesting thing about getting covered early.

Here's what nobody tells you. When you're 26, you're probably healthier than you'll ever be again. No hypertension, no blood sugar issues, no old injuries that show up on forms. Insurers love this. They offer you their best rates precisely because you're a low-risk bet right now.

Wait until 35, and even if you're broadly healthy, the underwriting is more involved. Wait until 42, and you're looking at a significantly higher premium — or possible exclusions for pre-existing conditions you didn't even know you had.

"The premium you lock in at 26 stays with you for the next 30–40 years. That's the real gift of starting early."

The second thing nobody tells you: applying doesn't take a day anymore. For most people in their 20s with no major health history, the entire Kotak e-Term application is online, takes about 10–15 minutes, and requires no medical tests below a certain sum assured.

If you're in your 20s reading this — even if you're single, even if you have no dependents yet — this is the right time. Parents, siblings, future responsibilities: they all get a safer starting point when you make this decision today.