Even though final expense insurance pays only for funeral costs, the death benefits can be used to pay any amount: mortgage payments and credit card debt, medical bills, or even credit card debt. Beneficiaries of life insurance policies can decide how the death benefits are spent.
Final expense insurance is perfect for those over 40 who need to insure their final expenses and funeral costs. Due to the policy's death benefits (typically between $5,000 and $20,000), premiums are typically more affordable for those with fixed incomes.
To keep pace with healthcare and technological advancements, insurance rates constantly change. Final expense companies set their rates based on actuarial data and underwriting criteria. It is possible that the most affordable policy offered by one company will not be available with another. A licensed agent can give you a free quote and help you decide which policy is best.
The average monthly final expense policy cost is between $30-$70. It all depends on your age. Your premiums will be higher if you have severe health conditions or are 70+. Rates as low as $20-$50 may be offered to applicants younger and in better health. The rate you pay is usually lower, which means there are less benefits and features available for your loved ones. A few extra monthly dollars can make a difference in the support that your family will receive after you die.
Final expense insurance is not necessary if your income is independent or you have enough saved. It's important to keep an eye on the rising costs of funerals and to stay informed about current expenses.
How can the death advantage be used?
You might not be eligible if your age is 85 or higher, if you are currently hospitalized or in hospice care. Some health conditions, such as terminal illness and AIDS, may prevent you from qualifying.
Although final expense insurance covers funeral expenses, the death benefit is also available for mortgage payments, medical bills, credit card debt and mortgage payments. Beneficiaries of life insurance policies decide how to spend the death benefit.
Add the cost to purchase a gravemarker ($200-$400 per primary material), a published notice of death, and other costs associated in a memorial services. The final cost can easily reach $10,000 or higher.
Final expense insurance can be considered a whole-life policy. The premium and death benefit for traditional whole-life policies are the same throughout the policy's lifetime. Whole-life policies are designed to last the life of the policyholder. Some policies accumulate cash value. Because the policy's term isn’t restricted to a certain time period like term insurance, whole life insurance is sometimes called "permanent live".
Final expense insurance is a life insurance policy that has a lower death benefit, usually intended to cover final expenses and burial costs. Also known as burial insurance or funeral insurance, it's designed for older adults who are ready to make end-of-life plans, typically age 50 and older.
What is the average cost of final expense insurance? Final expense insurance premiums could cost around $20 or more per month, depending on your age and the policy you choose. However, everyone's premiums will vary based on personal conditions.
A final expense policy can offer peace of mind and ease the financial burden on your family while they're grieving. And since it usually doesn't require a medical exam, it's a good option if you have a pre-existing condition that prevents you from getting a traditional term or whole life policy.
Does Final Expense Have a Cash Value? Final expense insurance does allow for a cash value to build because it's a form of a whole life insurance policy. However, the savings must accrue, and there are some things to keep in mind when you want to borrow against the cash value.
Most families will use cash, check or credit card to pay for all or part of the funeral expenses. Most funeral homes today expect payment in full up-front. Sometimes you can pay a portion using an installment plan negotiated with the funeral home.
Final expense insurance can cover a number of costs. This allows loved ones to use the benefits for the expenses they need to pay, as opposed to just covering burial costs. This coverage includes common final costs, such as medical bills, probate or legal fees, and other expenses other policy types don't cover.