Final expense life insurance offers valuable financial protection that seniors should consider exploring further.
Scandistock/Getty Images
As you age and your income sources become less robust, it's natural to look for ways to reduce expenses, not add to them. For seniors in today's economic climate, in which inflation and credit card debt is rising, this becomes an even more pronounced concern. With finite budgets supported by Social Security and retirement savings, any additional expense or monthly premium needs to be weighed carefully.
So it may seem counterintuitive to add a new insurance policy to the mix, especially when life insurance, for example, is often considered not to be worth it for seniors. But what about final expense life insurance, specifically? What is this unique financial protection, and can it be worth securing for seniors and older adults? Those are the questions we'll analyze below.
Considering the benefits of life insurance now? Start with a free price quote here.
What is final expense life insurance?
Final expense life insurance is a type of policy geared to cover specific expenses in the event of the death of the insured. The benefit from this policy can be applied by beneficiaries for items like burial or funeral costs, medical or legal bills and more, depending on the company and policy.
Costs for this type of coverage are frequently cheaper compared to other life insurance types, but the coverage, since it's so specific, may be less robust than what you'd otherwise receive with a conventional whole or term policy. But if you know you want protection for these specific needs, it can be worth exploring.
There's also typically no medical exam required, as the intended use of the policy is clearly outlined, so the insurance company doesn't need to do as much verification as it would with other types. That's an advantage for those with health issues or a history of smoking or drinking that could impact their coverage options and eligibility.
Finally, there is no set limit or "term" for this coverage after which it expires. As long as you keep paying your premiums, you'll be protected with a final expense life insurance policy. This all noted, details can vary from company to company, and there is no uniform approach to coverage options, so it pays to shop around, comparing policies and companies to determine which is offering the coverage you need at a price you can afford.
Compare your top life insurance options online here.
Is final expense life insurance worth it for seniors?
The answer to this question varies from senior to senior, but can arguably best be determined by asking another question: How much do you have saved away to cover these specific expenses otherwise?
If you don't have enough money set to cover a burial or funeral, but feel comfortable leaving those costs to be paid by family members or friends, then you can skip this insurance type. But if you need this money to cover the costs or want to leave your savings untouched for loved ones and prefer to have these expenses covered by a life insurance company, it can be worth securing.
And remember that because of this specific intended use, costs here don't have to be exorbitant. Costs here can start around $62 per month, according to Progressive. And, while not free, that can be low enough to justify taking action now, especially if you know that you'll be protected with a policy potentially worth tens of thousands of dollars in the future.
The bottom line
Final expense life insurance is a tailored type of financial protection worth exploring for seniors and older adults concerned about the expenses their beneficiaries may encounter toward the end of their life or after their death. It may not be worth securing for every senior, but for many, it can offer valuable financial security and peace of mind at an affordable cost. Just be sure to take the time to shop for policies, companies and coverage limitations to find one best suited for your financial needs and goals.
Edited by Angelica Leicht
