Can I Buy Burial Insurance for My Parents? (Yes — Here’s How to Do It Legally, Affordably & Without Stress)

Last Updated: November 7, 2025 | Written by President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM

Yes — You Can Buy Burial Insurance for Your Parents

You are legally allowed to buy burial insurance for your mother, father, or both, as long as two conditions are met:

Requirements

1. You Must Have "Insurable Interest".
2. You must benefit financially by avoiding the burden of paying funeral costs. (Children automatically qualify.)

They Must Provide Consent.

• Your parent must agree to the policy and participate in a short health questionnaire or recorded approval.

NOTE: You cannot secretly buy insurance for your parents.

There must be knowledge and consent — even for small burial policies.

How Much Does Burial Insurance for Parents Cost?

Pricing depends on:

• Age
• Gender
• Health questions (no medical exam needed)
• Coverage amount

Here are average monthly rates for a $10,000 policy:

       Age               Male (Dad)              Female (Mom)

        50                $28-$42/mo             $22-$35/mo

        60                $42-$65/mo             $30-$52/mo

        70                $68-$125/mo           $48-$92/mo

        80                $110-$200+/mo       $85-$165/mo

        

Tip: Female parents almost always cost less than male parents.

The earlier you buy, the lower the price — permanently.

Can I Buy Burial Insurance for a Parent With Poor Health?

Yes.

There are policies called Guaranteed Issue Burial Insurance that:

• Ask no health questions
• Require no medical exam
• Cannot deny your parent

However, these policies come with a "graded" waiting period" (usually 2 years) before the full death benefit pays out for natural causes. Accidental death is covered immediately.

If your parent can answer even a few simple health questions, you can avoid this waiting period and get lower rates.

Step-By-Step: How to Buy Burial Insurance for Your Parents

1. Talk With Your Parent

Explain the purpose simply:

"I want to make sure your final expenses are taken care of so I can honor your wishes without financial stress."

2. Choose the Coverage Amount

Average U.S. funeral cost today: $7,000 to $12,000.

If you want to include medical bills or debt, consider $10,000–$20,000.

3. Compare Multiple Insurers

Never buy from the first company you call.

Premiums can vary 40%+ for the exact same coverage.

4. Complete a 15–20 Minute Application

This is done over phone or online with:

• Parent’s consent
• Basic identity verification
• A few health questions (if applicable)

5. Policy Is Usually Approved Immediately

Most burial insurance is instant-issue. No waiting weeks.

What’s Better: Burial Insurance or Pre-Paid Funeral Plans?

     Burial Insurance                                           Pre-Paid Funeral Plans

     Flexible, cash benefit                                      Locked into one funeral home

     Can be used anywhere                                    Non-transferable in most cases

     Can cover more than funeral cost                     If prices rise, you may owe more

     Beneficiary controls funds                                Funeral home controls funds

Burial insurance gives families control.

Pre-paid plans limit choices and can create complications.

Pros & Cons of Burial Insurance for Parents

Advantages

• Affordable monthly premiums
• No medical exams
• Immediate peace of mind
• Helps avoid family financial strain
• Ensures respectful funeral planning

Disadvantages

• Costs increase with age, so waiting is expensive
• Guaranteed issue policies require a waiting period
• Coverage amounts are typically small

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be the policy owner and pay for the insurance?

Yes. Most adult children pay the premiums and own the policy, naming themselves as the beneficiary.

What if my parent refuses to talk about it?

Start with their wishes, not the money.

Ask: "Do you want to be buried or cremated?"

This opens the conversation naturally.

Can I get burial insurance for both parents?

Yes — and combining the process usually saves time and money.

Conclusion: Peace of Mind for You. Dignity for Them.

Buying burial insurance for your parents is not just a financial decision — it is a gift of love, clarity, and dignity. It lets you:

• Focus on honoring your parent
• Avoid emotional stress and financial strain
• Protect your family from unexpected costs

If you know you’ll be responsible for your parent’s final expenses, the best time to secure coverage is now, while pricing is still reasonable.

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.

Resources:

• Guide to Guaranteed Acceptance Life Insurance
• Tips for Buying Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
• Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance FAQs
• Pros and Cons of Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
• 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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