How to Choose the Right Final Expense Insurance Policy
(Without Falling Asleep)
Let’s be real: nobody wakes up excited to talk about funeral costs and final expense insurance. But guess what? If you learn it now, you could save your family a TON of money, headaches, and unnecessary stress later.
It’s one of the smartest and most loving moves you can make.
So, let’s make this simple (and maybe even a little fun).
Here’s everything you need to know to pick the right final expense policy without feeling overwhelmed. Ready? Let’s go!
First Things First: What Are the Costs Involved in a Funeral?
Here’s the truth most people don’t realize: Funerals are expensive. Like, REALLY expensive.
Typical Funeral Costs Breakdown
Service | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Basic service fee (funeral home handling) | $2,000+ |
Transportation of your loved one | $500+ |
Embalming & body preparation (for viewings) | $750+ |
Casket | $2,500+ |
Burial plot | $1,000–$4,000 |
Headstone | $1,000+ |
Flowers, obituaries, programs, etc. | $500+ |
So… What Exactly Is Final Expense Insurance?
Final expense insurance is basically life insurance’s cool, more relaxed cousin. Instead of a huge million-dollar payout, it’s designed to cover funeral costs, medical bills, and other final expenses — without overcomplicating things.
Key Point: Final expense insurance typically gives you coverage amounts between $5,000 and $25,000.
How to Pick the Perfect Final Expense Policy (Without Stress)
1: Know How Much You’ll Need
Think about what kind of goodbye you want. Add up a rough estimate, then give it a cushion for inflation. Most people feel comfortable with $10,000–$20,000 in coverage.
2: Choose Between Two Main Types
- Simplified Issue: No medical exam, basic health questions, lower monthly cost.
- Guaranteed Issue: No health questions, everyone approved, slightly higher premiums.
Is This Policy Right for You?
If you don’t have $10,000+ saved for your funeral and want to avoid leaving your family with stress, this policy is likely for you especially if you’re between 50 and 85 years old.
Top 3 Myths About Final Expense Insurance
- “I’m too young.” Lock in lower rates now.
- “I have insurance through work.” It may not stay with you when you retire.
- “It’s too expensive.” Some plans start as low as $50/month.
Why Planning Ahead Matters
“My dad passed away unexpectedly. Thankfully, he had a final expense policy. It paid the funeral home directly and gave us space to grieve instead of panic.”
— Maria, Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What does it cover? Funeral, medical bills, legal fees.
- Can I get approved with health issues? Yes. Guaranteed issue approves everyone.
- When does it pay out? Simplified: days. Guaranteed: up to 2 years.
- If I already have life insurance? Final expense is a helpful add-on.
Final Expense vs. Term Life: Quick Comparison
Feature | Final Expense | Term Life |
---|---|---|
Coverage Amount | $5,000–$25,000 | $100,000+ |
Medical Exam? | Not required | Sometimes required |
Approval Time | 1 day–1 week | 2–6 weeks |
Monthly Cost | Lower | Varies |
Best For | End-of-life costs | Income replacement |
Ready to Plan Ahead?
You don’t need to figure it all out alone.
Let a licensed agent help you choose the best plan—no pressure, no obligation.
- Schedule a free call
- Takes just 15 minutes