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Final Expense Companies to Avoid and How to Protect Yourself

Final Expense Companies to Avoid

You may have an idea about the crucial role of final expense coverage in ensuring that your loved ones are financially protected after your passing. It is an insurance plan that helps to alleviate the burden on your family in case of your sudden demise.

However, not all final expense companies are created equal. Each insurer comes with rules and regulations that may not fit all individuals who want to apply for final expense. Additionally, there are also some scams common in the market.

So, in this blog post, we will explore the critical aspects of final expense insurance, shed light on final expense companies to avoid, and provide insights on how to navigate the market safely.

List of Final Expense Companies to Avoid

First, we will talk about some companies you should steer clear of. We’re sharing these names based on customer reviews on their site and what their clients have told us, and these are the companies that are often replaced.

Honestly, what some of these final expense companies do to seniors is just not right. Imagine living your life, trying to do the right thing by getting final expense insurance to take care of your family. Then, when you’re older, you find out it’s not what you thought it was. Pretty tough, right?”

Let’s have a look at these final expense companies to avoid:

1- Colonial Penn

Colonial Penn is a final expense insurance provider known for its late-night low-cost marketing tactics, particularly a graded death benefit plan. This plan, often advertised with paid spokespeople, may initially seem affordable at under $10 per month. However, it has been criticized for its potentially misleading nature.

The coverage is structured in units, where each unit costs $9.95. Despite assurances that the price will never increase, coverage decreases each year as the policyholder ages. This can result in policyholders paying substantial premiums over time for a diminishing final expense coverage, raising concerns about transparency and fairness.

2- Globe Life

Globe Life is another final expense insurance provider mentioned for potentially misleading practices. While they offer coverage of up to $100,000, the company is criticized for promoting their policies as whole life insurance when, in reality, they operate on a 5-year renewable term basis. This means that premiums increase every five years, and coverage ceases at age 80.

The marketing strategy may attract individuals with seemingly attractive rates, only for them to face significantly higher premiums as they age. Globe Life’s policies have been noted for potentially putting seniors in a precarious position, especially if they are healthy and have longevity in their family, focusing on the importance of understanding the terms and conditions before making a decision.

3- AARP (New York Life)

AARP, while widely recognized for its membership benefits, also offers life insurance policies through its partnership with New York Life. However, these policies have faced criticism for being one-size-fits-all, potentially disadvantaging healthy seniors who may be grouped with individuals facing severe health issues.

Despite having good ratings from various agencies, AARP’s life insurance policies are reported to be grossly overpriced compared to other guaranteed issue whole life insurance options available in the market. Additionally, negative customer reviews mentioning issues with customer service, rate increases, and policy cancellations have raised concerns about the overall satisfaction and suitability of AARP’s life insurance offerings.

4- Lincoln Heritage

Lincoln Heritage has been mentioned for its relatively high monthly premiums compared to other final expense insurance providers. It justifies these higher rates by offering a “free” funeral concierge program, which critics argue may not truly offset the increased costs. The funeral advantage program has been labelled as a stunt, suggesting that policyholders may end up paying significantly more in premiums compared to competitors without gaining substantial additional benefits.

While they do offer a modified plan, it still may not compete favorably with other competitors in terms of pricing. Potential policyholders are advised to carefully consider the value they receive for the premiums paid when evaluating Lincoln Heritage’s final expense insurance options.

5- AAA Life

AAA Life, known for its roadside assistance services, also provides final expense insurance. However, their final expense policy, offering up to $25,000 in coverage for seniors aged 45-85, comes under careful examination. Despite the attractive coverage amount, the policy provides a full death benefit, meaning that individuals in good health receive the same policy as those with severe health issues.

This lack of differentiation based on health status raises questions about the accuracy of the policy for healthy individuals. Furthermore, AAA Life has received negative customer reviews, citing billing issues and long wait times for death claim payouts, suggesting potential challenges in customer service and claims processing. Prospective policyholders are advised to carefully assess the suitability of AAA Life’s final expense policy based on their health and preferences.

 

What are the checking parameters for Final Expense Companies to Avoid?

Choosing the right final expense insurance provider is vital for securing your family’s financial future. Unfortunately, some companies may not have your best interests at heart. Here are red flags to watch out for:

  • Excessive Premiums with Limited Coverage: Some companies may charge excessive premiums for minimal coverage. It’s crucial to strike a balance between affordability and adequate coverage.
  • Ambiguous Terms and Conditions: Be wary of companies with complex terms and conditions. Transparency is key in the insurance industry, and any ambiguity should raise concerns.
  • Poor Customer Reviews: Before committing to a final expense insurance provider, research customer reviews and testimonials. Consistent negative feedback may indicate subpar service or unmet expectations.
  • Unreliable Payout Histories: Investigate the company’s track record of timely and reliable payouts. Delays or disputes can create unnecessary stress for your beneficiaries during an already challenging time.
  • Lack of Financial Stability: Opt for companies with a strong financial foundation. A financially stable insurer is more likely to honor its commitments, providing peace of mind for policyholders.

How to Search for the Best Final Expense Insurance?

Searching for the best final expense insurance requires a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to ensure that your financial needs and preferences are met. Here’s a guide on how to navigate the process effectively:

  • Assess Your Needs

Begin by evaluating your specific financial situation and final expense needs. Consider factors such as funeral costs, outstanding debts, and any other expenses your loved ones may face after your passing. Understanding your needs will help you tailor your search accordingly.

  • Determine Your Budget

Establish a budget that aligns with your financial capacity. Final expense insurance comes in various price ranges, so having a clear budget in mind will narrow down your options and prevent you from overspending.

  • Compare Quotes

Obtain quotes from multiple final expense insurance providers. Compare the costs and coverage options they offer. Online comparison tools or consulting with insurance professionals can assist in obtaining accurate and up-to-date quotes.

  • Research Company Reputation

Look for final expense insurance providers with a solid reputation for reliability, customer service, and transparency. Investigate online reviews, testimonials, and ratings from reputable sources to get the experiences of other policyholders.

  • Examine Policy Terms and Conditions

Thoroughly review the terms and conditions of each policy. Ensure you understand what is covered, any exclusions, and the payout process. Look for transparency in the policy documentation and don’t hesitate to seek clarification on any ambiguous points.

  • Understand Waiting Periods

For certain types of final expense insurance, there may be waiting periods before the full benefits are available. Understand these waiting periods and choose a policy that aligns with your timeline and coverage needs.

By following these steps, you can navigate the final expense insurance market with confidence, ultimately selecting a policy that provides financial security for your loved ones and meets your specific requirements.

Conclusion

Final expense insurance is a crucial component of your financial planning, providing peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. By avoiding untrustworthy companies and taking a proactive approach to your insurance search, you can ensure that your final expenses are covered responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1- How much final expense insurance do I need?

The amount of final expense insurance you need depends on your circumstances. Consider factors such as funeral costs, outstanding debts, and other final expenses to determine an appropriate coverage amount.

2- Can I change my final expense insurance policy later?

Some policies may allow changes, while others may have restrictions. It’s essential to review the terms and conditions of your policy while getting the plan.

3- What happens if I outlive my final expense insurance policy?

If you outlive your policy, there may be options to renew, convert, or purchase a new policy. Consult with your insurance provider to explore the available options based on your specific circumstances.

4- Are there age restrictions for obtaining final expense insurance?

Many final expense insurance policies are available for individuals of varying ages. While some policies may have age restrictions, seniors often have options to secure coverage.

5- Can I name multiple beneficiaries in my final expense insurance policy?

Yes, many final expense insurance policies allow you to designate multiple beneficiaries. Consult with your insurance provider to understand the options available and ensure your wishes are accurately reflected in your policy.

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