HOW MUCH FINAL EXPENSE COVERAGE DO I NEED?
A practical, realistic way to choose the right amount
Choosing coverage doesn’t have to be complicated — but it should be intentional.
Start with funeral and service costs
Typical cost ranges (national averages):
- Burial with viewing and service: $8,000–$10,000
- Cremation with service: $6,000–$7,000
Costs vary by:
- Location
- Type of service
- Cemetery fees
- Personal preferences
Add common additional expenses
Many families overlook:
- Cemetery plot or niche
- Headstone or marker
- Clergy or officiant fees
- Travel and lodging for family
- Death certificates and legal fees
- Unpaid medical bills
These can add $2,000–$5,000+.
Subtract existing resources
If you already have:
- Dedicated funeral savings
- Other life insurance
- Prepaid funeral arrangements
You may need less coverage.
Common coverage choices (real-world)
| Coverage Amount | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| $10,000 | Basic cremation or simple burial |
| $15,000 | Burial + some extras |
| $20,000–$25,000 | Full service + debts |
| $30,000+ | More flexibility & family support |
Why “too little” is a common mistake
Families often underestimate:
- Rising funeral costs
- Medical bills
- The desire to avoid financial stress
It’s usually better to have a small buffer than come up short.
