---
title: "What Is DIME (DIME Method)? Definition | Epic Life Glossary"
description: "The DIME method is a simple way to estimate coverage by adding Debt, Income, Mortgage, and Education costs. The total is a starting point for the..."
url: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/dime-method
publisher: Epic Life Group
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---

Consumer pricing and coverage concepts

# DIME Method (DIME)

The DIME method is a simple way to estimate coverage by adding Debt, Income, Mortgage, and Education costs. The total is a starting point for the coverage amount.

## Why it matters

For example, add non-mortgage debts, several years of income, the mortgage balance, and college costs. Subtract existing coverage and savings. The method is a rule of thumb, not a full plan. It leaves out funeral costs, so many people add those too. Treat the result as a starting point, and ask an agent to help adjust it for your family and your state.

Source: [iii.org](https://www.iii.org/article/how-much-life-insurance-do-i-need)

[Read next, for familiesMortgage protection insurance: what it is, what it is not, and what to compare](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/life-insurance/mortgage-protection)

## Where we use this term

-   [How much does life insurance cost, and what drives the price?](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/life-insurance/cost)
-   [Term life insurance: how it works, what drives price, and when it ends](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/life-insurance/term-life)

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