Since 1994
By Gil G Edwards, RICP®, Founder & CEO, Termco · Licensed agent, NPN 676445 · Updated
At a glance
| Termco | Ethos | |
|---|---|---|
| Business model | Independent agency; compares term life from multiple insurers | Online life insurance working with partners including Banner Life, RGAX, Assurity and Munich Re source (last checked Oct 2026) |
| Application | Short quote form, then a licensed agent helps you choose a carrier and apply | Online application described as taking about 5 minutes source (last checked Oct 2026) |
| Talking to an agent | A licensed Termco agent reviews your situation with you | Says you don't need to talk to an agent unless you want to source (last checked Oct 2026) |
| Term lengths | 10, 15, 20, 30 and 40-year terms, depending on carrier and age | 10 to 30-year terms on its term life page source (last checked Oct 2026) |
| Coverage amounts | Varies by carrier and your profile | $100,000 to $1,000,000 listed on its term life page source (last checked Oct 2026) |
| Background | Founded 1994 by Gil G Edwards, RICP®; Licensed in all 50 states | Offices in San Francisco and Austin listed on its site source (last checked Oct 2026) |
When Ethos may be the better choice
- You're in good health and want to apply entirely online, quickly, without a conversation.
- The coverage range and term lengths it offers fit your needs.
- You value a self-serve experience over agent guidance.
When Termco may be a better fit
- You'd like a licensed agent to compare carriers for a specific health condition before you apply.
- You want a 35 or 40-year term, or coverage outside the range listed on Ethos's term life page.
- You prefer a long-tenured team you can call directly.
Either way, the price of a given policy from a given insurer is set by that insurer and filed with regulators, so it generally doesn't depend on which licensed agency you buy through. What differs is which insurers you can compare, how your application is guided, and who you talk to. For more, see online life insurance vs. an independent agency.
Want a second opinion?
Share a few basics and a licensed Termco agent will follow up with options. No obligation, and you're welcome to compare us with anyone.
Frequently asked questions
Is Termco affiliated with Ethos?
No. Termco is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Ethos.
Is Ethos faster?
Ethos highlights a short online application. Termco's quote form is short too, and timing for either depends on the carrier and your underwriting.
Which is better if I have a health condition?
It depends on the condition and carrier guidelines. An agency that compares multiple insurers can help match you to one whose guidelines fit, which may matter more when your health history is complex.
Competitor names are used only to identify their services for comparison. Termco is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by any company named on this page. Competitor information comes from each company's own website as linked, last checked October 2026, and may have changed since. Please confirm details on their sites. Termco's products and availability vary by state, and all coverage is subject to underwriting by the issuing insurer.