Is there such a thing as free burial insurance?
For many, getting life insurance is a priority to ensure their loved ones are financially protected. Recently, you may have seen advertisements in the mail or on social media claiming to offer "free" burial insurance. This has led many to wonder if free burial insurance is a legitimate offer.
At SelectQuote, we believe in being clear and transparent. We've done the research for you, and we can definitively say there is no such thing as free burial insurance.
However, that doesn’t mean life insurance can’t be affordable—especially for seniors who receive a fixed income through Social Security.
What is burial insurance?
Burial insurance—also known as final expense insurance—is a type of life insurance policy designed specifically to cover the costs that come with end-of-life arrangements. It’s an ideal option for people who want to give their family peace of mind by handling all their end-of-life expenses in advance. These policies are especially popular with seniors on a fixed income because they’re easy to obtain and affordable. In addition to funeral costs, final expense insurance can also pay for outstanding debt, medical bills, the remainder of a mortgage, or even to leave a modest financial gift for loved ones.
The Truth About “Free” Burial Insurance
Often, deceptive advertising will make a compelling claim about a "state-regulated" or "government-sponsored" benefit to entice you. These ads are designed to capture your attention and make you think you’re getting something for free. However, this is just a marketing tactic, while the promise of a free policy is simply not true.
In fact, the only form of government funeral benefit is a one-time Social Security lump-sum death benefit of $255—a very limited amount that is only available to a surviving spouse or child. We know that planning for end-of-life expenses is a sensitive and important topic, and the last thing anyone wants is to be misled. We're here to serve as a resource and share unbiased information.
Understanding Final Expense Insurance
Unlike some other types of life insurance, final expense policies offer guaranteed rates that never go up and coverage that never goes down. This provides peace of mind knowing the policy will remain a reliable part of your financial plan.
Because the benefit amount is smaller (typically under $100,000), most final expense policies do not require a medical exam, and you can't be turned down for coverage if you're between the ages of 45-85 for some policy types. This makes them an excellent option for seniors who may have chronic health issues. You just answer a few health questions on a simple application.
Example Rates for Burial Insurance Policies Through SelectQuote
Age/Sex | $10,000 Coverage Amount | $20,000 Coverage Amount | $30,000 Coverage Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
40-Year Old Female | $18.60 | $34.20 | $48.00 |
40-Year Old Male | $22.20 | $41.40 | $58.20 |
45-Year Old Female | $22.61 | $42.01 | $61.41 |
45-Year Old Male | $27.00 | $50.41 | $73.71 |
50-Year Old Female | $24.31 | $45.41 | $66.51 |
50-Year Old Male | $30.67 | $57.53 | $84.40 |
55-Year Old Female | $27.71 | $52.21 | $76.71 |
55-Year Old Male | $35.94 | $68.08 | $100.22 |
65-Year Old Female | $41.01 | $78.82 | $116.63 |
65-Year Old Male | $54.15 | $104.50 | $154.85 |
75-Year Old Female | $72.40 | $141.00 | $209.60 |
75-Year Old Male | $97.10 | $190.40 | $283.70 |
85-Year Old Female | $135.89 | $267.98 | $400.06 |
85-Year Old Male | $187.58 | $371.35 | $555.13 |
Table rates are based on non-smoking men and women from one or more of the trusted companies we represent. Rates were pulled 8/2025. Your price could vary depending on your health, issuing company, and other factors. Not available in all states.
What can burial expense insurance cover?
Final expense insurance is designed to cover the costs associated with a funeral and other end-of-life expenses, so your family doesn't have to shoulder that financial burden. This can include:
Funeral Costs: The average cost of a funeral can range from $7,000 to $12,000, and this policy can help cover everything from the burial plot and casket to the embalming and memorial service.
Outstanding Debts: You can use the benefit to pay off lingering debts like credit card balances, medical bills, or personal loans.
Medical Bills: It can help cover any final medical expenses not covered by health insurance.
Legal Fees: The policy can provide funds for any legal costs associated with settling an estate.
Leaving a Legacy: Any remaining funds can be left as a small financial gift for your family.
How SelectQuote Makes It Simple
Buying insurance can seem intimidating, but SelectQuote’s proven process takes the pain out of it and simplifies what can often be a difficult decision. We do all the hard work on your behalf, comparing different carriers and plans to find the one right for you. Our team of licensed insurance agents is highly trained and compassionate, ready to answer questions and provide unbiased price comparisons.
We work for you, not the insurance companies, and our agents are commission-blind, meaning they're blind to which policies make them more money.
Don't leave your family with debt—shop with SelectQuote today.
