Funeral and Burial Expenses
The primary purpose of burial insurance is to cover the costs associated with your funeral and burial. These expenses can add up quickly, and having a policy in place ensures your family is not left scrambling to pay them.
Medical and End-of-Life Expenses
Beyond funeral costs, many families face outstanding medical bills and end-of-life care expenses. Burial insurance benefits can be used to cover:
- Outstanding hospital bills
- Hospice care costs not covered by Medicare
- Prescription medications
- Home health aide services
- Medical equipment rentals
Other Uses for the Death Benefit
Because burial insurance pays a cash benefit directly to your beneficiary, the funds can be used for any purpose. Families often use remaining funds for:
- Paying off outstanding debts or credit cards
- Covering rent or mortgage payments during transition
- Legal fees and estate settlement costs
- Travel expenses for family members attending services
- Charitable donations in your memory
- Creating a small inheritance for grandchildren
What Burial Insurance Does NOT Cover
It's important to understand the limitations of burial insurance so you can plan accordingly:
- ✗Long-term care or nursing home expenses (separate coverage needed)
- ✗Income replacement for surviving spouse (consider term life insurance)
- ✗Large debts like mortgages (consider additional life insurance)
- ✗Pre-existing conditions may affect eligibility or benefit type
Choosing the Right Coverage Amount
When selecting your burial insurance policy, consider the following guidelines:
| Coverage Amount | Best For |
|---|---|
| $5,000 – $7,500 | Basic cremation and simple services |
| $8,000 – $12,000 | Standard funeral and burial |
| $12,000 – $15,000 | Full funeral with burial and reception |
| $15,000 – $25,000 | Comprehensive coverage including debts |
Find the Right Coverage for Your Needs
Our licensed agent will help you choose the right coverage amount at the best price.
Get My Free QuoteJoe Unger
Licensed AgentJoe Unger is a licensed insurance agent specializing in final expense and burial insurance for seniors in West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky. As an independent agent, Joe represents multiple top-rated insurance carriers to ensure clients receive the most affordable coverage for their specific needs.
Editorial Disclosure: This article was written and reviewed by a licensed insurance agent. The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice. Coverage availability and rates vary by state and individual health profile. Contact us for personalized coverage information.