For future brides and grooms and recent newlyweds, combining assets under one roof takes more than a moving van and space for all their belongings. Every couple planning to build a life together should take prudent actions to protect their future.

The months leading up to a wedding can be one of the most exciting times in a person's life. They can also be one of the most stressful. From finding the perfect venue to planning the reception, the long list of wedding to-dos can seem never ending.

The wedding itself though is not the only thing couples need to consider before their big day. There are other vital tasks that should be completed in order to ensure not only the perfect wedding, but also the perfect start to a marriage.

“Securing life insurance should be one of the first priorities for newlyweds but is often, perhaps understandably, overlooked,” says Tim Heslin, Interim Head of AIG Life US. “However, if you pass away unexpectedly and don’t have coverage, your spouse could become responsible for your student loans, car payments, credit card debt and mortgage. Investing in a life insurance policy is one of the best ways to protect your partner against a financial crisis if something were to happen to you.”

While many couples choose to wait to purchase life insurance until, for example, after the birth of their first child, this could cost them in the long run.

“Keep in mind that the younger you are when you get life insurance, the lower your monthly payments can be,” added Heslin. “By locking in an affordable rate, you could save thousands of dollars over the course of your lifetime.

For more information on AIG Life insurance products and basics, visit https://www.lifeandretirement.aig.com/life-iq