If you or a loved one are considering burial insurance but have existing health issues, you may be wondering: “Will I qualify?” The good news is that burial insurance is specifically designed for seniors and people with health concerns, making it one of the most accessible types of life insurance available today. However, your health can affect the type of policy you're eligible for, the cost of coverage, and how quickly benefits begin.
In this guide, we’ll break down how health issues impact burial insurance eligibility, the types of policies available, and how to choose the right one—no matter your medical history.
1. What Is Burial Insurance?
Burial insurance (also called final expense insurance) is a small whole life insurance policy designed to cover end-of-life costs such as:
- Funeral and burial or cremation
- Casket, urn, or headstone
- Funeral home and service fees
- Unpaid medical bills or debts
Coverage amounts typically range from $5,000 to $25,000, and the policy never expires as long as premiums are paid.
2. Can You Get Burial Insurance If You Have Health Issues?
Yes — You Can Still Qualify
Even if you have serious or multiple health problems, you can still qualify for burial insurance. In fact, many insurers design these plans specifically for seniors with:
- Diabetes or high blood pressure
- Heart disease or stroke history
- COPD or asthma
- Arthritis, osteoporosis
- Cancer (past or in remission)
- Mobility issues or wheelchair use
- Depression or anxiety
- Other chronic or age-related conditions
The key is choosing the right type of policy based on your health condition.
3. Types of Burial Insurance Based on Health Conditions
| Policy Type | Health Requirements | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Level Benefit (Immediate Coverage) | Good to moderate health; no major recent conditions | People with manageable or wellcontrolled health issues |
| Graded Benefit (Delayed Full Coverage) | More serious conditions; some health questions asked | Those who may not qualify for immediate coverage |
| Guaranteed Issue (No Health Questions) | Any health condition accepted | Seniors with severe or multiple medical conditions |
Let’s look at each in more detail:
4. Level Benefit Burial Insurance (Immediate Full Coverage)
Who Qualifies?
- Seniors with no major health problems
- Those with controlled conditions like hypertension, cholesterol, or mild diabetes
- People with no recent hospitalizations or surgeries
Benefits:
- Full coverage starts from day one
- Lower premiums compared to other types
- Often includes optional riders (e.g., accidental death)
If your health is relatively stable, this is the most affordable and beneficial option.
5. Graded Benefit Burial Insurance (Partial Benefits for First 2 Years)
Who Qualifies?
- Individuals with moderate health risks
- People who had serious illnesses over 2 years ago
- Seniors recovering from recent conditions like cancer or stroke
How It Works:
- During the first 2 years, the insurer may pay back premiums plus interest or a percentage of the benefit if death occurs from natural causes
- After 2 years, the full death benefit is paid regardless of cause of death
Example:
If you pass away from natural causes during year one, your beneficiary might receive premiums paid plus 10% interest. After year two, they would receive the full coverage amount (e.g., $10,000).
Good option for people with health issues not severe enough for guaranteed issue plans, but too serious for immediate coverage.
6. Guaranteed Issue Burial Insurance (No Health Questions)
Who Qualifies?
- Everyone ages 50 to 85 (age range varies by insurer)
- Those with severe or multiple health conditions
- Individuals who have been declined by other insurers
Features:
- No health questions or exams
- Approval is guaranteed
- Always includes a 2-year waiting period before full benefits kick in
- Death due to accident is fully covered from day one
If you have terminal illness, Alzheimer’s, late-stage cancer, or are in a nursing home—this may be your only option.
7. Health Conditions That May Delay Full Coverage
Insurers have varying underwriting rules, but common red flags that may result in a waiting period or denial for level benefit coverage include:
- Terminal illness diagnosis
- Currently receiving hospice care
- Advanced Alzheimer's or dementia
- Severe heart conditions in the past year
- End-stage kidney disease or dialysis
- Recent cancer treatment
- Amputation due to diabetes or poor circulation
Even with these conditions, you can still qualify for guaranteed issue policies
8. How Health Affects Cost
Your age and health are the two biggest factors affecting your monthly premium. Here’s a rough comparison:
| Age | Health Status | Coverage | Monthly Premium (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | Good health | $10,000 | ~$30–$45 |
| 65 | Moderate health | $10,000 | ~$45–$65 |
| 70 | Poor health | $10,000 (Guaranteed Issue) | ~$60–$90 |
9. Tips for Finding the Right Policy With Health Issues
- Be Honest About Your Health
Don’t try to hide conditions—it could result in claim denial later. - Work With a Licensed Agent
They can match you with an insurer that’s more lenient with your condition. - Compare Multiple Plans
Get quotes from different companies to find the best rate and benefit combination. - Ask About Riders
Some policies include extra benefits like accidental death coverage or living benefits
10. Final Thoughts
Yes—you can absolutely get burial insurance even if you have health issues. Whether you’ve had a recent surgery, manage a chronic illness, or face more serious conditions, there’s a policy for you. The key is choosing the right type of plan based on your health history and being realistic about how much coverage you need.
Burial insurance offers peace of mind, knowing your final expenses will be covered and your loved ones won’t be burdened with costs when the time comes.
Need Help Finding the Right Plan?
At AffordableBurialInsurance.com, we specialize in helping seniors with all types of health conditions get approved for the best burial insurance available. Whether you need simplified issue or guaranteed acceptance, our licensed agents will guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today for free quotes and expert advice tailored to your health and budget.