Burial Insurance in Chicago: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Family
Last Updated: November 10, 2025 | Written by President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM
Planning ahead for end-of-life expenses isn’t something most of us enjoy talking about. But if you live in Chicago, you already know how quickly costs add up around here.
Funeral and burial services in the city can easily range between $8,000 and $15,000+, depending on the provider and personal choices. Burial insurance is designed to take that financial pressure off your family when the time comes.
This guide will help you understand what burial insurance is, how it works in Illinois, and how to find the best and most affordable policy in Chicago.
What Is Burial Insurance?
Burial insurance is a type of small life insurance policy (usually $5,000 to $25,000 in coverage) designed specifically to cover:
- Funeral costs
- Burial or cremation services
- Cemetery plot and headstone
- Transportation and ceremony expenses
- Outstanding medical bills
It’s easy to apply for, often has no medical exam, and is most commonly used by older adults who want to lock in a guaranteed way to help their family avoid debt when they pass.
Why Burial Insurance Matters in Chicago
Chicago is known for world-class culture, food, neighborhoods, community, and history — but it’s not known for affordability. Funerals here can cost more than the national average due to:
- Higher funeral home service fees
- Urban cemetery land costs
- Inflation and staffing expenses
- Cultural and religious ceremony expectations in local communities
Having a burial insurance policy ensures that when your family is grieving, they’re not also worried about how to pay for everything.
How Burial Insurance Works in Illinois
Here’s the good news: Illinois is a consumer-friendly state when it comes to final expense coverage.
Most Chicago residents will qualify for one of the following:
1. Simplified Issue Burial Insurance
- No medical exam
- A few health questions
- Approval in days
- Lowest rates for most people
2. Guaranteed Issue Burial Insurance
- Guaranteed acceptance, no health questions
- Best for people with serious health conditions
- Costs more, but still provides peace of mind
3. Level vs Graded Benefits
- Level benefit: full coverage begins immediately
- Graded benefit: full payout begins after a waiting period (commonly 2 years)
Average Monthly Rates for Burial Insurance in Chicago
These are sample ranges for healthy applicants. Rates vary by age and health, but this gives a realistic expectation:
Age $10,000 Policy $20,000 Policy
50 $26-$38/month $49-$72/month
60 $37-$55/month $72-$108/month
70 $62-$85/month $120-$165/month
80 $95-$140/month $185-$270/month
If your health is average to good, you will likely qualify for better pricing.
If your health is more complicated, you can still get approved — just expect guaranteed-issue pricing.
The Best Burial Insurance Companies Available in Chicago
These insurance carriers consistently offer strong rates and reliable coverage for Illinois residents:
- Mutual of Omaha
- Gerber Life
- Royal Neighbors of America
- Transamerica
- Liberty Bankers Life
Important tip: Each company evaluates health differently.
The best policy for one person is rarely the best for another.
This is why most Chicago families get the best deal through an independent licensed agent who can compare multiple companies instead of a single provider.
How to Get the Best Price on Burial Insurance in Chicago
Here’s how to avoid overpaying:
- Work with an independent agent, not a company that only quotes one insurer
- Choose a level benefit policy if you can qualify
- Lock in your rate while you're younger if possible
- Avoid policies sold by telemarketing call centers (they upcharge heavily)
- Review your coverage every few years
Who Should Consider Burial Insurance?
You’ll benefit from burial insurance if you:
- Don’t want your family worrying about funeral costs
- Don’t have a current life insurance policy
- Have savings, but don’t want loved ones waiting for probate
- Want guaranteed peace of mind planning
If that sounds like you, burial insurance is a simple and meaningful way to protect your family.
Frequently Asked Questions About Burial Insurance in Chicago
1. How much does a burial insurance policy cost in Chicago?
Most Chicago residents pay between $30 and $95 per month, depending on age, health, and desired coverage amount. The younger and healthier you are when you apply, the lower your rate will be. Start Your FREE Quote.
2. Can I get burial insurance with health issues?
Yes. Many burial insurance plans require no medical exam and accept applicants with diabetes, high blood pressure, COPD, and other common conditions. If your health is more severe, guaranteed issue plans are available.
3. Is burial insurance the same as life insurance?
Burial insurance is a type of life insurance, but it’s smaller and designed specifically to cover funeral and final expenses. Most coverage amounts fall between $5,000 and $25,000.
4. How fast does burial insurance pay out?
Once the claim is filed, approved burial insurance benefits typically pay out within a few days to a couple of weeks, helping families cover costs quickly.
5. What’s the difference between level and graded benefit plans?
- Level benefit: Full coverage starts immediately
- Graded benefit: Full coverage starts after a waiting period (usually 2 years), often used when health conditions are more serious
6. Do I need an agent to get burial insurance in Chicago?
You aren’t required to use an agent, but working with an independent broker helps you compare multiple companies to find the best price and benefits for your situation.
Final Thoughts
End-of-life planning is one of the kindest financial decisions you can make for the people you care about. Burial insurance ensures that when your day comes, your loved ones can focus on honoring your memory — not scrambling to handle expenses.
Guaranteed Issue Burial Life Insurance Quotes
Top Pick – United of Omaha
United of Omaha offers guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance for people age 45 to 85. Choose $3,000 up to $25,000 of coverage. Rates start as low as $8.80 per month. There’s no medical exam and no health questions. You cannot be turned down. You can get a quote and apply online now. Start Here to get a FREE Quote.
Highly Recommended – Gerber Life
Gerber Life offers guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance for people age 50 to 80. Choose from $3,000 up to $25,000 of coverage. Rates start as low as $17.69 per month. There’s no medical exam and no health questions asked. You cannot be turned down. START HERE to get a FREE Quote.
Resources:
- Can I Buy Burial Insurance for My Husband?
- Buying Burial Insurance for My Dad
- Buying Burial Insurance for My Mother
- Can I Buy Burial Insurance for My Parents?
- Burial Insurance with No Waiting Period (Ages 18-70)
- A.M. Best Company: Compare financial strength ratings of life insurance companies
- Life Happens.org: Learn about life insurance and review facts.
About Our Methodology
Reviewed By: President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM
- 30+ years of experience in insurance planning
How We Keep This Guide Accurate: We regularly updates our content to reflect the latest rates and industry trends. We are committed to providing transparent, unbiased information to help you make the best decision for your family.
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