Life Insurance in New York, Explained by a Licensed Broker
Plain answers first. Then a policy that fits.
Rothswell helps New York individuals, families and business owners work out how much life insurance they need, what kind, and for how long, and then compares insurers on their behalf. Recommendations follow New York's best-interest standard (Regulation 187).
New York licensed agent and broker
Start with the question you have.
Life insurance pays money to the people you choose if you die. Most people buy it to replace income, pay off a mortgage, fund a child's education, or leave something behind. Business owners buy it to protect a company and its partners.
Start with the guide closest to your situation. If you are unsure, send us a note and we will arrange a call or a visit to our Madison Avenue office.
- We listen first
Income, debts, dependents, what you already have, and what you want the money to do. - We size the need
We show how different amounts and lengths of coverage compare, not a single rule of thumb. - We compare insurers
We look across insurers and explain the differences that matter, including price, conversion rights and underwriting. - We recommend in your best interest
You get our recommendation and the reasons for it in writing, then you decide.
We work in your best interest. New York's Regulation 187 requires that life insurance recommendations be in the consumer's best interest, and that is how we work: we start with your situation, compare insurers, document our recommendation and the reasons for it, and explain how we are paid.
- Agency
- The Rothswell Agency LLC, New York licensed agent (LA-1997378): life, accident and health.
- Individual agent
- Ardi Shita, New York licensed insurance agent (LA-1951560): life, accident and health, NPN 22062424.
- Individual broker
- Ardi Shita, New York licensed life insurance broker (LB-1951560): life, accident and health. As a broker we represent you, and we tell you which role we are acting in.
Insurer names are shown to identify companies we work with. Availability depends on appointments, the product and underwriting.
Life Insurance and Your MortgageDoes a mortgage mean you need life insurance? How to think about coverage amount, length and who should own the policy.
What to Expect From Life Insurance UnderwritingHow life insurance underwriting works in New York: the application, the health questions, the exam and how long the process can take.
Naming Life Insurance BeneficiariesWho to name as primary and contingent beneficiary, what happens with minors, and when to review your designations.Do I need life insurance?
If anyone relies on your income, or you have debts or a business that would be hard to settle without you, it is worth a conversation. If no one would be financially affected, you may not need it.
What is the difference between term and permanent life insurance?
Term covers a set number of years and is generally the lower-cost way to protect a limited need. Permanent insurance is designed to last for life and can build cash value, which suits estate and legacy planning and some business needs.
Do I have to take a medical exam?
Many policies require underwriting, which can include a health questionnaire, medical records and sometimes an exam. Some insurers offer simplified processes for certain ages and amounts. Availability varies.
How are you paid?
Insurers generally pay commissions on policies they issue. We explain our role and compensation at or before the application, and you can ask for details at any time.
Which languages do you speak?
We speak and serve clients in English, German, Albanian, Croatian, Serbian, Bosnian and Macedonian. Call 646 821 3520 or write to info@rothswell.us and tell us which language you prefer. Ne shqip: telefononi ose shkruani, dhe ju pergjigjemi shqip.
Talk to us
Call 646 821 3520 or send a note. We will reply from our Madison Avenue office.

How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?
Term vs Whole Life Insurance
Life Insurance for Business Owners






