Life insurance
Final expense insurance
In plain EnglishA small whole life policy that pays for your funeral and final bills, so your family isn’t stuck with them.
What it is
Final expense insurance is whole life insurance in smaller amounts — typically $5,000 to $50,000 — designed for people roughly 50 to 85. Approval is usually based on a few health questions instead of a medical exam.
Premiums never go up and coverage never expires. When you pass away, your beneficiary receives the money and can use it for anything: the funeral, medical bills, debts, or whatever the family needs.
How it works
Step by step.
- Answer a few health questionsOften over the phone, in one conversation. Many people are approved within days.
- Choose the right plan typeLevel plans pay the full amount from day one. Graded plans pay a partial benefit for natural death in the first two years. Guaranteed-acceptance plans ask no health questions but usually have a two-year waiting period.
- Your price is locked for lifeThe premium you start with is the premium you keep.
- Your family files a claimClaims are typically paid quickly, so the money is there when it’s needed.
The honest version
What’s good, and what to watch.
Every product has trade-offs. We’d rather you hear them from us now than discover them later.
What we like
- Easy approval — usually no exam
- Premiums never increase
- Coverage never expires
- Money can be used for anything
What to watch
- Costs more per dollar of coverage than fully underwritten insurance
- Graded and guaranteed plans have waiting periods
- Coverage amounts are smaller
- Make sure the amount matches what a funeral actually costs where you live
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers.
How much coverage do I need?
Enough for the funeral or cremation you want plus any final bills. Funerals commonly cost several thousand dollars or more, so many people choose $10,000 to $25,000.
Is there a waiting period?
Not on level plans. Graded and guaranteed-acceptance plans usually have one for natural causes — typically two years, often with premiums refunded plus interest if something happens sooner.
Can I buy it for my parent?
Yes, with their knowledge and consent — they’ll take part in the application and sign it.
Often paired with
Related coverage.
Whole life insurance
Coverage for your whole life, with premiums that never go up and cash value that never earns a negative rate.
Learn more →Living benefits
Use part of your death benefit while you’re alive if a serious illness hits.
Learn more →Term life insurance
The most coverage for the lowest price, for the years your family depends on you most.
Learn more →General information, not tax or legal advice. Features, availability and rules vary by insurance company, product and state — we’ll walk you through the details of any policy before you apply.
Is this right for you?
Tell us a little about your family and goals. We’ll compare your options side by side — no pressure, no obligation.