Can I Buy Burial Insurance on My Spouse? Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated: October 24, 2025 | Written by President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM
Yes — and Here’s How It Works
If you’re wondering, "Can I buy burial insurance on my spouse?" the answer is Yes — as long as your spouse gives consent. Buying burial insurance for your spouse is one of the most loving and practical financial steps you can take to protect your family from unexpected funeral expenses.
It ensures that when the time comes, you won’t be left struggling to cover costly final arrangements during an emotional period.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to buy burial insurance on your spouse, what it costs, who qualifies, and why it’s one of the smartest financial moves for married couples.
What Is Burial Insurance?
Burial insurance, also known as final expense insurance, is a small whole life insurance policy designed to cover funeral costs, cremation, or burial expenses.
Unlike traditional life insurance, burial insurance:
- Offers guaranteed coverage for those who qualify
- Requires no medical exam (only a few health questions, or none, in most cases)
- Pays out a tax-free benefit, typically between $5,000–$50,000
- Can be used for any final expenses— not just funeral costs
This makes it ideal for older adults or anyone wanting a simple, affordable way to protect their loved ones from financial strain.
Can I Legally Buy Burial Insurance on My Spouse?
Yes — you absolutely can buy burial insurance on your spouse, but there are two important conditions:
1. You must have insurable interest.
This simply means you would suffer a financial or emotional loss if your spouse passed away — which, in marriage, is automatically true.
2. Your spouse must give consent.
Even if you’re paying the premiums, your spouse needs to sign the application and be aware of the policy. No life insurance company will issue coverage without their permission.
Once those conditions are met, you can easily purchase burial insurance on your spouse — often online or over the phone — with approval in just a few minutes.
Why Buy Burial Insurance on Your Spouse?
Here are the most common (and wise) reasons people do it:
1. To Protect Your Finances
Funerals today cost between $7,000 and $12,000 on average. Burial insurance ensures those costs are covered without dipping into savings or retirement funds.
2. To Provide Peace of Mind
Knowing your spouse’s final expenses are taken care of can relieve enormous emotional stress. It’s one less thing to worry about during a difficult time.
3. To Prevent Family Conflict
When there’s no plan in place, surviving relatives often disagree about funeral decisions or who should pay. A burial policy eliminates that uncertainty.
4. To Secure a Fast Payout
Burial insurance benefits are usually paid within days — not weeks or months like traditional life insurance. That means funds are available when they’re truly needed.
How to Buy Burial Insurance for Your Spouse
Here’s a simple step-by-step process:
Step 1: Talk with Your Spouse
Explain the benefits and ensure they’re comfortable with applying. Remember — consent is required.
Step 2: Get a Few Quotes
Compare burial insurance providers that specialize in final expense coverage for seniors. Look for companies with fixed rates, no waiting periods, and lifetime coverage. Start Your FREE Quote.
Step 3: Choose the Right Coverage Amount
Consider funeral costs, medical bills, debts, and small financial needs left behind. Most families choose $10,000–$25,000 in coverage.
Step 4: Apply for the Policy
You can apply online, by phone, or through a licensed agent. Most applications only take 10–15 minutes, and many people get approved instantly.
Step 5: Pay Monthly Premiums
You can pay monthly, quarterly, or annually — whatever fits your budget. The rates never increase, and the coverage never decreases as long as premiums are paid.
Types of Burial Insurance Policies for a Spouse
There are two main types of burial insurance you can buy for your spouse:
✅ Simplified Issue Burial Insurance
- No medical exam
- A few basic health questions
- Instant approval possible
- Best rates for relatively healthy applicants
✅ Guaranteed Issue Burial Insurance
- No health questions, no medical exam
- 100% approval for ages 45–85
- Two-year waiting period before full benefits
- Ideal for spouses with serious health conditions
- Start Your FREE Quote
How Much Does Burial Insurance for a Spouse Cost?
Rates depend on age, gender, health, and coverage amount, but here’s a general idea:
Age $10,000 Coverage $20,000 Coverage
50 $25-$35/month $45-$60/month
60 $35-$50/month $65-$90/month
70 $55-$75/month $100-$140/month
80 $90-$120/month $160-$220/month
Note: Women usually pay less than men, and rates are locked in for life.
Can I Be the Beneficiary?
Yes. As the spouse purchasing the policy, you can name yourself as the primary beneficiary. That means you’ll receive the payout directly, allowing you to handle funeral arrangements and any remaining bills without delay.
What Happens If My Spouse Passes Away?
When your spouse passes:
- Contact the insurance company.
- Submit the death certificate and claim form.
- Receive the tax-free payout, usually within a week or two.
You can use the funds for:
- Funeral or cremation services
- Burial plot and headstone
- Medical bills or debts
- Travel or family expenses during the funeral
- Use remaining funds as you see fit
Best Burial Life Insurance Companies for Spouses
Some of the top-rated burial insurance providers include:
- Mutual of Omaha – Great for seniors and those with health issues
- Gerber Life – Simplified issue coverage for older applicants
- AIG – Guaranteed issue, no health questions required
Always compare a few quotes before applying — the differences in rates and benefits can be significant.
Final Thoughts: Buying Burial Insurance on Your Spouse Is a Gift of Love
So, can you buy burial insurance on your spouse?
Yes — and you absolutely should if you want to protect your family from financial hardship.
It’s a simple, affordable way to ensure your partner’s final wishes are honored and that you have the financial support you need when it matters most.
A burial insurance policy doesn’t just pay for a funeral — it gives your family peace, dignity, and financial freedom in one of life’s hardest moments.
✅ Key Takeaways:
- You can buy burial insurance on your spouse with their consent.
- Coverage amounts typically range from $5,000–$25,000.
- No medical exam is required for most plans.
- Policies are affordable, lifelong, and pay out fast.
- You can be named the beneficiary to the funds directly.
Ready to protect your family?
Get a free quote today and find the perfect burial insurance plan for your spouse — fast, affordable, and with no medical exam required.
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:
- Can I Buy Burial Insurance for My Husband?
- Buying Burial Insurance for My Dad
- Buying Burial Insurance for My Mother
- 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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