re: How much term life insurance should you carry? If at all?

The company doesn't matter too much, you just don't want to go with a dirt cheap fly by night option. Someone like Northwestern Mutual will be 20-30% higher many times you are paying for the reduced risk.

If you are a resident, you don't 'need' 30 year policy. In 15 years you should have enough in savings that your wife and kids will survive without you. But while you are young, it also wouldn't be a bad idea to buy a 30 year policy for 2-3 mil as a somewhat estate planning tool.

As said 10x your salary is what is recommended in term. What you want to consider is if you want your wife to live the same life now or have to take some minor adjustments if you pass.

Don't forget that without one spouse, your expenses are going to increase. If you die for example, any labor you supply will need to be paid for now. Landscaping, home repair, auto repair, day care will increase, etc.

I'm not one to over insure, but I think a solid 10x earnings for 15 years with a mid-line insurance company is being a good spouse.