Final Expense University FAQ's

1. What is the difference between Final Expense, Burial and Funeral Insurance?


Each of these three are the same type of insurance, only with different names. They are a type of life insurance designed to provide the policy holder a fixed amount of money that can be used to pay for the final costs when the policy holder dies. For the purpose of these questions and answers the term ‘Final Expense insurance’ will be used.

2. What does Final Expense insurance do?

Final Expense insurance is a form of term life insurance that provides the policy holder with a pre-determined amount of money upon their death. Final Expense insurance is designed to be a low-cost alternative to traditional life insurance which is easier to qualify for and carries cheaper monthly premiums. Final Expense insurance is designed to cover the major costs of funeral services and products.

3. Is Final Expense insurance necessary?

Final Expense insurance is recommended particularly if you don’t have any other type of life insurance. Because Final Expense insurance is such an affordable alternative to term or whole life insurance, it is a great choice for those who cannot afford traditional life insurance or who have been turned down for a traditional life insurance policy. With the average cost of a funeral totaling over $8,000, Final Expense insurance helps alleviate the high cost of caring for a loved one once they’ve passed on.

4. How much Final Expense insurance do I need?

The value of the policy you select will vary depending on the type of funeral service you choose to have. Some people purchase modest policies and have small, simple services. Others expect to have a much larger service which will cost much more. Larger policies have a larger monthly premium but give more money to the beneficiaries when the policy is paid out.

5. Do I have to use my Final Expense insurance benefits on funeral expenses?

Once the policy holder of a Final Expense insurance policy passes away, his or her beneficiaries may use the money in any way they desire. Funds are usually used to pay for funeral related services and products, but may be applied to the cost of debts, loans, vacation costs, lingering medical expenses or any other expense or bill.

6. Do premiums for Final Expense insurance change?

Once you have purchased a Final Expense insurance policy, your premiums will remain the same until the benefits are paid out. Based on your current age and health, policies and premiums are issued and will not change or increase as you get older or if you get sick or injured. There may be certain payout restrictions depending on your policy however, and if you pass away before a certain amount of time you may not receive 100% of your policy. It is important to review these possible restrictions with your agent before purchasing your policy.

7. Is it possible to cancel a Final Expense insurance policy?

You may cancel your Final Expense policy at any time. You will not be entitled to a refund of premiums you have paid. Once you purchase a Final Expense insurance policy the only way to for the insurance company to cancel the policy is if you stop paying your premiums. A policy holder may also be cancelled if your policy is found to be fraudulent. Should the policy holder fail to pay premiums, the policy will become void and the policy holder will not be entitled to a refund of paid monthly premiums.

8. Will a funeral home allow me to pay for their services with my Final Expense insurance policy?


Final Expense insurance policy payouts will cover the expenses incurred once the policy holder passes away. Final Expense insurance policies are cash-based policies. Beneficiaries of the policy receive a cash payment that may be used to pay for any expenses. Because you have cash in hand there are no limitations or restrictions as to what is paid for with the funds from a Final Expense insurance payout.

9. How much does Final Expense insurance cost?

Rates for a Final Expense insurance policy will vary depending on many factors, but mainly your age, current health, where you live, and the size of the policy you want.

10. Can I purchase Final Expense insurance if I have health issues?

Final Expense insurance policies are designed to help those with non-terminal illnesses get coverage. It is much easier to get a Final Expense insurance policy than it is to get traditional life insurance. Your agent will help you identify if there are still certain health issues that might disqualify you and prevent you from getting a policy. Because Final Expense insurance is a form of insurance that does not require a formal health exam, there are no invasive health screenings or tests required before you are able to purchase a policy.

11. What are the health issues that may make it harder to qualify or will increase the cost of my premiums?


If you have a family history of heart disease, stroke, or are a smoker, heavy user or alcohol, or are at risk for health issues, it might be more difficult to obtain a Final Expense insurance policy. These same issues may also drive the cost of the monthly premiums up. If you are young and have no history of poor health and are not a risk, your premiums will be much lower. Many insurance companies will not issue Final Expense insurance policies to people over the age of 85, and the closer you get to this age the higher your premiums will be. The best way to find out exactly how much a personalized policy will cost is to speak with your senior insurance professional.

12. How long does a Final Expense insurance policy last?

A Final Expense insurance policy will cover you until you pass away or until you stop paying your monthly premiums. When you pass away, your beneficiaries will receive the cash payout of the amount of your policy. This cash can be used to pay for your funeral, pay for debts, cover other expenses, and any money remaining can be used as an inheritance. A Final Expense insurance policy does not expire.

13. How do I determine which company or policy is best?

The various Final Expense insurance companies offer different policy options at different price points. The best way to determine which company will best fit your needs is to work you’re your senior insurance specialist to see which options and companies’ best meet your needs. They will then be able to work with you to decide which plan offers the best coverage and cost for your needs.

14. How do I apply for Final Expense insurance?

It is recommended that you contact a representative that specialized in senior insurance. They will be able to help you identify your own particular needs and wishes and provide you several options that will help you meet those needs.

15. How do I find a policy in my area?

To find a policy in your area, contact your senior insurance professional and they will help you to compare available policies that will meet your needs.