Final Expense Direct Insurance Pros and Cons Compared

Author

Reads 957

Insurance Broker Presenting an Offer to an Elderly Couple
Credit: pexels.com, Insurance Broker Presenting an Offer to an Elderly Couple

Final Expense Direct Insurance offers a convenient way to purchase life insurance coverage without the need for an insurance agent. This option is particularly appealing to those who value independence and flexibility in their insurance purchasing process.

One of the significant pros of Final Expense Direct Insurance is the ability to purchase coverage online, 24/7. This allows individuals to purchase a policy at their own pace, without the need for an in-person meeting or phone call.

Another advantage is the potential for lower premiums, as direct insurance companies often have lower operational costs. However, it's essential to note that some policies may have higher premiums to account for the lack of agent commissions.

Some Final Expense Direct Insurance policies may also have more restrictive underwriting requirements, which can impact coverage eligibility. This is often the case for policies with lower premium rates or shorter term lengths.

What is Final Expense Direct?

Final Expense Direct is a type of life insurance policy that provides coverage for funeral expenses and other final costs.

Credit: youtube.com, How Much Do Final Expense Direct Mail Leads Cost?

This type of policy is often used to cover the costs of a funeral, burial, and other related expenses that can be a significant financial burden on loved ones.

The average cost of a funeral in the United States is around $7,000 to $10,000.

Many people purchase Final Expense Direct policies to ensure that their loved ones are not left with a large financial burden.

These policies typically have a simplified underwriting process, which means that applicants do not have to undergo a medical exam.

This can be a big advantage for people who may have health issues or are older.

Final Expense Direct policies often have a guaranteed issue option, which means that the policy is guaranteed to be issued, regardless of the applicant's health status.

This option may have a higher premium, but it provides peace of mind for those who may not qualify for a traditional life insurance policy.

Types of Plans

There are two types of final expense life insurance plans offered by Aflac. One of these plans is not specified in the article section, but the other is.

Credit: youtube.com, Final Expense Insurance vs. Prepaid Funeral Plans: Which is Right for You?

Guaranteed Issue Whole Life insurance is a form of final expense life insurance that provides coverage for a fixed rate. This plan is designed to meet the needs of senior adults ages 50 to 80.

Premiums for this plan start at $22 per month for a $5,000 coverage policy. The rate is based on a female, age 50, with $5,000 in coverage.

Here are some key features of this plan:

  • Available to senior adults ages 50 to 80
  • Premiums start at $22 per month for a $5,000 coverage policy
  • No medical examination or health questions are required
  • Rates and premiums are guaranteed not to increase
  • Living benefits are included at no extra cost, including coverages for chronic or terminal illnesses

Types of Plans

There are two types of final expense life insurance plans offered by Aflac.

You'll be offered the best value based on your age and health questionnaire responses after applying.

Aflac offers two plans, but it's not specified which ones they are, so let's look at another option.

Corebridge Direct offers a Guaranteed Issue Whole Life plan that provides coverage for final expenses.

This plan is designed for senior adults ages 50 to 80 and provides $5,000 to $25,000 in coverage.

A Family and a Pastor in a Funeral Service
Credit: pexels.com, A Family and a Pastor in a Funeral Service

Premiums start at $22 per month for a $5,000 coverage policy, and rates are guaranteed not to increase.

Here are some key features of the Guaranteed Issue Whole Life plan:

  • Guaranteed coverage with no medical examination or health questions
  • Living benefits for chronic or terminal illnesses
  • 50% of the death benefit for terminal illness, and all premiums paid returned for chronic illness

Modified Plan

A modified plan can provide a more tailored approach to your insurance needs. For example, if death is due to an accident, you may be eligible for the full face value of your policy.

However, if death is not due to an accident, the benefits may be limited. In fact, for policy years 1 and 2, a limited benefit is paid out, while in policy year 3, the full benefit is paid.

Here's a breakdown of how benefits are paid out under a modified plan:

This means that as you continue to pay premiums, the benefits increase, providing more comprehensive coverage for your loved ones.

Benefits and Features

Final expense direct insurance offers a range of benefits and features that can help make a difficult time a little easier for your loved ones. The cash benefit from final expense insurance can help cover funeral and burial costs, medical needs, or anything else that will help loved ones.

Credit: youtube.com, What Are the Benefits of Final Expense Insurance

You can apply for coverage by answering a few health questions, and fixed monthly premiums will be determined based on your needs and budget. Your final expense insurance coverage remains in place as long as your premiums are paid up, providing peace of mind for you and your family.

Here are some key benefits and features of final expense direct insurance:

  • Competitive, fixed premiums that do not change over time.
  • The cash benefit can be applied to funeral expenses, burials or cremations, and end of life medical expenses and outstanding debts.
  • Fixed monthly premiums allow you to budget for your coverage.
  • Our final expense insurance plans build cash value – a sum of money that can be used to borrow against or use it as a non-forfeiture benefit.

The minimum death benefit for issue ages 45-75 is $2,000, while the maximum death benefit is $25,000.

Features

Final expense insurance offers a range of features that can help make a difficult time easier for your loved ones.

Payout benefits can be applied to any post-mortem debts, but are typically used for funeral expenses, burials or cremations, and end-of-life medical expenses.

The death benefit from final expense insurance can be used to cover virtually any cost, including funeral, medical bills, or day-to-day expenses. Your beneficiaries have the flexibility to use the death benefit as needed.

A Pastor Conducting the Funeral Service
Credit: pexels.com, A Pastor Conducting the Funeral Service

Final expense insurance plans often come with fixed premiums that don't change over time, providing a predictable cost for you and your loved ones.

You can choose a death benefit amount that suits your needs, calculated by considering your monthly household expenses, immediate needs, and potential funeral expenses.

Here are some key features of final expense insurance:

  • Competitive, fixed premiums that don't change over time
  • Cash benefit to help cover funeral and burial costs, medical needs, or other expenses
  • Answer a few health questions to apply for coverage, with fixed monthly premiums
  • Coverage remains in place as long as premiums are paid up
  • Plans build cash value, which can be borrowed against or used as a non-forfeiture benefit
  • Flexible payment options, including aligning payments with Social Security deposits

Lower Payout

Payouts for final expense insurance can range from $2,000 to $40,000, which might not be enough to cover all your end-of-life expenses.

Most policy amounts are under $50,000, and the average policy is taken out for $10,000 to $20,000.

Modified plans are issued to applicants with higher health risks and usually have a 2-3 year waiting period, after which the beneficiary will receive all the premiums paid plus a small additional percentage.

If you're looking for a higher coverage amount, you might need to consider alternative options.

Cost and Payment

Final expense insurance costs can vary, but the average monthly premium is between $30-$70, depending on factors like age, health, and coverage amount. Some younger applicants with good health may qualify for rates in the $20-$50 range.

Credit: youtube.com, How Much Does Final Expense Insurance Cost (It's More Affordable Than You Might Think)

The cost of a funeral can be staggering, with a median cost of $8,755 in 2017 for an adult funeral with viewing and burial. This includes a vault, which can cost an additional $1,572.

It's essential to consider the expenses you'll leave behind, including medical bills, credit card debt, and funeral costs. Here's a breakdown of the median funeral costs in 2021, according to the NFDA:

With final expense insurance, premiums are locked in once you get approved, and they'll never increase as long as your policy remains active.

How It Operates

Final Expense Direct collaborates with several large life insurance companies to obtain the best and most affordable final expense policies for their customers.

Since 2007, Final Expense Direct agents have been selling final expense life insurance policies directly to their customers over the phone.

Cost

The cost of final expense insurance can vary depending on several factors, including your age, health, and coverage amount. The average policy costs between $30-$70 a month.

An outdoor image of hands holding an empty black wallet, suggesting financial scarcity.
Credit: pexels.com, An outdoor image of hands holding an empty black wallet, suggesting financial scarcity.

Younger applicants in good health may qualify for rates in the $20-$50 range, while those with significant health conditions or over 70 may pay between $70-$120 a month. A cheaper rate usually means fewer features and benefits for surviving loved ones.

Funeral costs can be a significant burden on families, with the median cost of an adult funeral with viewing and burial being $8,755 in 2017. This includes a vault, which can cost an additional $1,572.

The rising costs of funerals have been well-documented, with a 991% increase over four decades. In 1960, the average cost of a funeral without a vault was just over $700, while in 2021, it was $7,848.

Here's a breakdown of the median funeral expenses in 2021, according to the NFDA:

If you're older and not in the best health, you may notice higher premiums for final expense insurance. You might be able to find more affordable coverage with another type of policy.

Debt

Credit: youtube.com, ACCOUNTANT EXPLAINS The FASTEST Way To Pay Off Debt in 2024 (With Live Tutorial)

Debt is a major concern for many families, especially when it comes to paying for final expenses. The average American consumer dies with a total balance of around $61,554, including mortgages.

Most of this debt doesn't just disappear, and in most cases, the estate pays off as many debts as possible before any assets are distributed to surviving family. This can leave family members with significant financial burdens.

The breakdown of consumer debt is staggering, with the average person owing around $25,391 in student loans, $17,111 in auto loans, $14,793 in personal loans, and $4,531 in credit card debt.

Here's a rough breakdown of the average debt:

The cost of a funeral or cremation arrangement can be a significant burden, with the average cost ranging from $9,000 to over $10,000.

Pre-Paying

Pre-paying for your funeral can seem like a smart choice, but it's essential to understand how it works. In most cases, pre-paying for your funeral is less flexible than getting final expense insurance because your prepaid plan can only be used to cover funeral expenses.

Credit: youtube.com, Should I Prepay for My Funeral?

A key thing to consider is that pre-paid funeral plans can only be used to cover funeral expenses, and if you change your mind or move, you and your family may lose the money you've paid to the funeral home. This can be a significant risk, especially if you're not sure what your final wishes will be.

Pre-paying for your funeral typically involves paying a lump sum or making regular payments to a funeral home, which will then hold the funds until they're needed. However, it's crucial to check how the money will be held, as some funeral homes may be more reputable than others.

According to the NFDA, the median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial in 2021 was $9,420, including a vault. With this in mind, it's essential to carefully consider the costs and potential risks of pre-paying for your funeral.

Here are some potential drawbacks to consider:

Ultimately, it's essential to carefully consider your options and make an informed decision about how to plan for your funeral expenses.

Eligibility and Application

Credit: youtube.com, Ep. 18 Final Expense Direct

You can apply for Final Expense Life Insurance if you're between 50 and 80 years old. This is a senior-focused plan designed to meet the needs of adults in this age group.

Premiums start at $22 per month for a $5,000 coverage policy, with rates varying based on issue age, gender, and coverage amount.

The application process is quick and easy, with coverage finalized within 48 hours of initial application.

Is Right?

Final Expense Life Insurance can provide additional layers of financial protection to families of seniors, retired individuals, or individuals with underlying or chronic health conditions.

Persons between the ages of 50 and 80 are guaranteed coverage with no medical exams or health questions.

This means you can get coverage without having to worry about a medical exam or answering health questions, which can be a huge relief for those with pre-existing conditions.

The rates for Final Expense Life Insurance cannot be increased during the duration of coverage, provided premiums are consistently paid.

This provides peace of mind, knowing that your rates will remain the same as long as you continue to pay your premiums on time.

Apply for a Policy

A Family in a Funeral Service
Credit: pexels.com, A Family in a Funeral Service

To apply for a policy, you'll need to follow a few simple steps. You can start by visiting the Corebridge Direct website or calling their licensed life insurance agents at 800-586-3022.

Guaranteed Issue Whole Life insurance can typically be finalized within 48 hours of initial application. This means you can get coverage quickly, even if you have underlying or chronic health conditions.

To apply, you'll need to be between the ages of 50 and 80, as this is the age range for which Corebridge Direct offers Guaranteed Issue Whole Life insurance.

You can begin an application and purchase a policy on the Corebridge Direct website, or you can call their licensed life insurance agents to speak with someone directly.

Here's a quick rundown of the application process:

By following these steps, you can get the coverage you need to protect your loved ones in the event of your passing.

Health Risks of Smoking

Smoking can have serious health consequences, especially as we age. Tobacco users are eligible for Final Expense Insurance, but they'll face increased premiums.

Credit: youtube.com, Final Expense Life Insurance for Smokers

Smoking can lead to a range of health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Tobacco users will be subject to increased premiums for Final Expense Insurance.

Smoking can also cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema, making it harder to breathe. Any excess funds from the policy can be used per the beneficiary's wishes.

Smokers are more likely to experience age-related health problems, making it essential to plan for long-term care. The primary beneficiary will have full control over the monetary value paid out by the policy.

Financial Planning

Final expense direct insurance can be a valuable tool in planning for the unexpected. Your beneficiaries will be able to apply the death benefit to a variety of costs, such as funeral and burial costs.

This can help alleviate the financial burden on your loved ones at a difficult time. Medical bills, legal fees, and hospice care are also expenses that can be covered with the death benefit.

Here are some specific costs that can be covered with the death benefit:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Medical bills
  • Legal fees
  • Hospice care
  • Everyday bills

What Can Help You

Credit: youtube.com, What is Financial Planning? || Best of Investor Education

Having a clear understanding of your financial goals is essential to creating a solid financial plan. This can be achieved by setting specific and achievable targets, such as saving for a down payment on a house or paying off high-interest debt.

A budget can help you track your income and expenses, allowing you to identify areas where you can cut back and allocate more funds towards your goals.

Regularly reviewing and updating your budget is crucial to ensure it remains aligned with your changing financial situation.

Automating your savings can make it easier to stick to your plan, with many employers offering automatic enrollment in 401(k) plans.

Having a support system, such as a financial advisor or trusted friend, can provide valuable guidance and motivation as you work towards your financial goals.

What Can Cover?

As we plan our finances, it's essential to consider the unexpected expenses that may arise. Final expense insurance can help cover funeral and burial costs.

People Looking the Insurance Policy
Credit: pexels.com, People Looking the Insurance Policy

If you're worried about leaving your loved ones with a large bill after you're gone, final expense insurance can help with that. Your beneficiaries can use the death benefit to cover medical bills.

You might be surprised at how quickly medical bills can add up, but final expense insurance can help. Legal fees and hospice care can also be covered with the death benefit.

In some cases, everyday bills can be covered too. This can provide peace of mind for your loved ones during a difficult time.

Here's a breakdown of what can be covered with final expense insurance:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Medical bills
  • Legal fees
  • Hospice care
  • Everyday bills

Pros and Cons

Final expense direct policies focus on after-life preparedness, helping your family cover unexpected funeral costs, which can range from $10,000 to $20,000.

A final expense policy can be a type of whole life policy, offering a permanent life insurance solution that lasts for the life of the policyholder. This means the death benefit and insurance premium remain the same for the life of the policy.

Credit: youtube.com, Final Expense Agents - What to Expect at Final Expense Direct

The coverage amount is usually much smaller than traditional policies, making the premiums for a final expense policy more affordable, averaging $10,000 to $20,000.

Some final expense policies don't require a medical exam to qualify, as they can be issued based on answers to health questions on the life insurance application.

Here are some key benefits of final expense direct policies at a glance:

  • Focuses on after-life preparedness
  • Typically more affordable than other insurance policies
  • Easy qualification process

Pros & Cons

Final expense insurance offers several benefits to consider. Here are some of the main pros:

Final expense insurance focuses on after-life preparedness, addressing the costs of funerals and other related expenses that can be a significant financial burden on loved ones.

A final expense policy can help cover costs like caskets, transportation, and grave liners, which can add up to $10,000 or more.

Final expense insurance is a type of whole life policy, providing a guaranteed death benefit and the potential to accumulate cash value over time.

Insurance Agent Sitting Next to Smiling Clients
Credit: pexels.com, Insurance Agent Sitting Next to Smiling Clients

Most whole life policies last for the life of the policyholder, making them a permanent solution for life insurance needs.

Final expense policies are often more affordable than other types of insurance, with coverage amounts typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000.

This lower coverage amount makes final expense policies more accessible, with some policies not requiring a medical exam to qualify.

Some final expense policies can be issued based on answers to health questions on the life insurance application.

Here are some key statistics about final expense insurance:

Drawbacks

Drawbacks of final expense insurance can be a bit of a catch-22.

One major drawback is that final expense insurance can be quite expensive, especially for people who are older or have pre-existing medical conditions.

The premiums for final expense insurance can be higher than other types of insurance, and they may not be affordable for everyone.

Another drawback is that the coverage may not be comprehensive, leaving some expenses uncovered.

Best For

A Woman Holding Key and Insurance Policy
Credit: pexels.com, A Woman Holding Key and Insurance Policy

Final expense insurance is best for seniors who need coverage for funeral costs and other end-of-life expenses. It's a type of life insurance that's specifically designed to help with these expenses.

This type of coverage is usually more affordable than other types of life insurance, making it a great option for seniors on a fixed income.

Carrier Options and Selection

Carrier options for final expense insurance can be overwhelming, but it's essential to choose a reputable and reliable provider.

There are several top-rated carriers in the industry, including Aetna, Gerber Life, and Mutual of Omaha, which have been featured in our article.

Aetna offers a range of final expense insurance plans with various benefits and riders, including a waiver of premium rider.

Mutual of Omaha's Accelerated Underwriting program allows for quicker approval times and more affordable premiums.

Gerber Life's Guaranteed Whole Life insurance policy provides a guaranteed death benefit and cash value accumulation.

Ultimately, selecting the right carrier and policy will depend on individual needs and circumstances, and it's crucial to carefully review and compare different options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best final expense insurance company?

According to recent updates, Savings Bank Life Insurance (SBLI) is now considered one of the top final expense insurance carriers, offering benefits that are hard to beat. Its new product update has made it a must-know for agents and consumers alike.

Matthew McKenzie

Lead Writer

Matthew McKenzie is a seasoned writer with a passion for finance and technology. He has honed his skills in crafting engaging content that educates and informs readers on various topics related to the stock market. Matthew's expertise lies in breaking down complex concepts into easily digestible information, making him a sought-after writer in the finance niche.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.