Why final expense plans ask health questions
Most final expense insurance doesn't require a medical exam. Instead, the insurer asks a short set of health questions, usually answered yes or no, and often checks your prescription history and medical records. The answers help the insurer decide which plan it can offer you and at what price.
Final expense insurance itself is a smaller whole life policy meant for funeral costs and final bills. Premiums are usually level, coverage doesn't expire while premiums are paid, and the benefit goes to the beneficiary you name. The health questions don't change any of that. They change which version of the plan you get.
Topics insurers often ask about
Every insurer writes its own questions, so the exact wording differs. For example, many insurers ask about the following.
- When a condition was diagnosed, and whether it was in the last 2 to 5 years.
- Recent treatment, surgery or hospital stays.
- Medications you take, including insulin.
- Complications, oxygen use, or whether you need help with daily activities.
- Tobacco or nicotine use.
Talk to a licensed agent: (949) 807-3995
How answers lead to a plan type
If your answers meet an insurer's guidelines, you may be offered a simplified issue or level benefit plan. If you qualify, the full benefit is usually paid from the first day. For some health histories, an insurer may offer a graded or modified plan instead, where the benefit is reduced if death from natural causes happens in the first two or three years. Accidental death is usually covered in full from the start.
Guaranteed issue plans skip the health questions entirely. Acceptance is guaranteed within the plan's eligible ages, but the benefit is usually limited, often to the premiums paid plus interest, if death from natural causes happens in the first two years. These plans also tend to have smaller face amounts and higher premiums.
Answer every question honestly and completely. If a question is unclear, ask the agent to read it again slowly or explain it. The insurer may check records, so accurate answers help the quote you hear match the plan you are offered.
Getting quotes from Delaware
On the call, a licensed agent reads the health questions with you, notes your medications and asks your age and the amount you want. Then the agent compares quotes from several insurers, since one insurer may view your health history differently than another. You can apply by phone if you choose. The quote is free and there is no obligation. Calls are taken Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm Eastern time.
Eterna is an independent insurance agency whose licensed agents help Delaware residents compare plans from several insurers. Plans, prices and availability vary by state, insurer, age and health. Face amounts often run from a few thousand dollars up to about $50,000. For context, the National Funeral Directors Association's 2023 General Price List Study put the national median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial at $8,300, and with viewing and cremation at $6,280, not counting cemetery, plot, monument or marker costs.
To look up an agent's license or ask a general insurance question, contact the Delaware Department of Insurance at https://insurance.delaware.gov/. The department licenses agents and regulates insurers, and consumers can bring it questions or complaints.
