How Much Final Expense Coverage Do I Actually Need?

Most people land somewhere between $10,000 and $20,000, but the right number depends on what you're actually trying to cover.

Start with the costs you know are coming

• Funeral home services and a casket or cremation
• A burial plot, headstone, or cemetery fees, if applicable
• Obituary publication and memorial service costs
• Travel or lodging costs for out-of-town family

Then consider what else might be left behind

• Any outstanding medical bills
• Small remaining debts you don't want passed on to family
• A modest gift or legacy amount for children or grandchildren

A simple way to think about it

Add up the funeral-related costs first, then layer on anything else you'd want covered. There's no requirement to cover everything with one policy — some families choose a smaller amount focused purely on funeral costs, while others add a bit more as a small financial cushion for their family. A licensed advisor can help you land on a number that fits both your goals and your budget.