MetLife Whole Life: What to Know (2026)

Read this with the MetLife whole life review. MetLife exited U.S. retail life sales around 2017. This page explains what an in-force participating whole life policy still does. It is not a reason to hunt for a new MetLife application.

New coverage: get a whole life quote or start at MassMutual.

What the old MetLife whole life contract was built to do

If your statement still says MetLife (or now Brighthouse) and the product is participating whole life, the chassis is the usual one:

• Guaranteed death benefit for as long as premiums are paid (or the policy is paid up)
• Level premiums on the original schedule
• Cash value that grows on the contract guarantees and can be borrowed
• Dividends if the board declares them — not guaranteed; can buy paid-up additions, reduce premium, or be taken in cash

That is what whole life insurance is. It is not unique to the MetLife logo.

What this page used to get wrong

Earlier versions read as if you could still shop MetLife whole life online, collect new dividends, and compare a live MetLife price to MassMutual. You cannot. The shopping and pricing sections belonged to a pre-2017 shelf.

If you need the exit story (Brighthouse vs MassMutual advisors), use the main MetLife review.

If you own a policy

1. Confirm the servicing company on the last annual statement.
2. Ask for an in-force illustration before a 1035, loan, or lapse.
3. Do not replace it with term or IUL just because the brand changed.
4. If you are healthy and want additional cash-value coverage, add a new mutual policy — do not assume MetLife will issue one.

Get a whole life quote for new coverage only.