What Is Burial Insurance and Why Is It Important?
https://www.caring.com/best-burial-insurance/
Burial insurance is a whole life insurance policy with a death benefit typically ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. This type of insurance policy is designed to relieve stress on your loved ones by covering your funeral and burial costs. Most funeral homes require full payment upfront, and it can take several months for your survivors to receive money set aside in your will. Burial insurance helps fill the gap in this situation by providing funds when they are needed most.
Below, we explore today’s average funeral costs, the pros and cons of burial insurance, and the differences between life insurance and burial insurance.
Average Funeral Costs
According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the average cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial in 2021 was approximately $7,848, and the average cost of a funeral with cremation was about $6,971. These prices are calculated by adding up basic costs such as service fees, embalming and other preparation of the body, a metal casket, use of facilities and staff for the funeral, use of transportation such as a hearse, and printed booklets or materials for the ceremony. However, the prices above do not include extra costs associated with the cemetery, monument, marker, flowers, or other miscellaneous charges that can quickly add up.
In a time marked by grief, no one wants to leave their loved ones behind in a state of shock and worry about how to cover these large expenses. That’s why it’s so important to plan ahead by researching funeral homes in your area to get an idea of cost and setting up your burial insurance accordingly. Since funeral homes vary in pricing and services offered, we suggest focusing your research on companies with licensed funeral directors and a reputation of honoring each family’s budget.
Pros and Cons of Burial Insurance
With all investments, there are positives and negatives to weigh before deciding if it is the right choice for you. Burial insurance is no exception, and we suggest taking your time to review the general pros and cons before moving forward in researching specific policies.
Pros:
- Quick coverage due to no health exam requirement
- Open to people of all health levels since little to no health questions are asked in application
- High eligibility age (sometimes up to 85 years old)
- Some policies accumulate cash value that can be used when unexpected expenses arise
Cons:
- No opportunities for good health rewards, like lower premiums or discounts
- Some policies have a waiting period that restricts the death benefit payout in the first two years after a policy begins
- Additional yearly fees added onto some policies