What can be a consequence of taking a loan against a whole life policy?

Taking a loan against a whole life policy can indeed decrease the future cash value of that policy. When a policyholder borrows against the cash value of their whole life insurance, the amount borrowed typically accrues interest. This borrowed amount is deducted from the cash value of the policy. Consequently, if the loan is not repaid, it reduces the overall cash value available to the policyholder, which can impact the policy's growth and future loans.

Additionally, if the policyholder were to pass away before repaying the loan, the insurance company would deduct the outstanding loan balance from the death benefit paid to the beneficiaries. This consequence underscores the importance of managing loans against whole life policies while considering both immediate financial needs and long-term effects on the policy's value.