Introduction:

Veterans have sacrificed so much in service to their country, and in return, they’re offered a range of benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). However, when it comes to funeral costs, the VA's assistance often leaves a significant financial gap. Many veterans and their families are surprised to learn that the VA doesn’t cover all funeral expenses, which can add unexpected stress during an already emotional time.

That’s why a final expense policy is a smart and essential choice for veterans. It not only fills in the gaps left by VA benefits but also ensures that you can leave money to your loved ones, helping them cope with end-of-life expenses and providing them with lasting security. In this post, we’ll explain why veterans should consider final expense insurance, what the VA actually covers, and how this policy can help you create a meaningful legacy for your family.

Why Veterans Need a Final Expense Policy

The Reality of VA Funeral Benefits

Many veterans and their families assume that funeral costs will be fully covered by the VA. However, the reality is that the VA’s burial and funeral benefits often only cover a small portion of the actual expenses. According to the VA’s guidelines, eligible veterans may receive:

• A burial allowance for service-related deaths, typically up to $2,000.

• A non-service-related death allowance, which may only be $300 for burial expenses and $828 for a plot allowance (as of 2024).

With the average funeral in the U.S. costing between $7,000 and $12,000, these allowances fall far short of covering the full cost of a funeral service. This leaves a gap that families must find a way to pay for—often during one of the most stressful times in their lives.

Why Final Expense Insurance is Essential for Veterans

A final expense policy is specifically designed to cover the out-of-pocket costs that aren’t fully paid for by the VA. This type of policy typically offers between $5,000 to $25,000 in coverage, which can be used to pay for:

• Funeral expenses (casket, service fees, etc.)

• Burial or cremation costs

• Medical bills left behind

• Legal fees or other outstanding debts

Having a final expense policy gives veterans peace of mind knowing that their loved ones won’t be burdened by these costs. In addition to funeral expenses, any remaining funds from the policy can be used by your beneficiaries in any way they see fit, helping to ease financial stress.

Leave a Financial Legacy for Your Loved Ones

One of the most compelling reasons for veterans to purchase a final expense policy is the ability to leave something meaningful behind for their loved ones. The VA does not offer benefits that provide your family with extra financial support beyond the modest funeral allowances. But with a final expense policy, you can provide your family with additional funds to help them cope during a difficult time.

Whether it’s paying off debts, covering daily expenses, or simply providing a financial cushion, the policy’s payout gives your loved ones the resources they need to move forward. This helps to ensure your family is protected from financial strain, and it leaves a lasting impact on those you care about most.

Guaranteed Acceptance and No Medical Exams

One of the standout features of final expense insurance is that many policies offer guaranteed acceptance, especially for seniors and veterans. This means that even if you have pre-existing health conditions, you can still qualify for coverage without the need for a medical exam. This makes final expense insurance one of the easiest policies to get for veterans, providing quick approval and reliable coverage for funeral expenses.

The Flexibility of Final Expense Insurance

Unlike pre-need funeral insurance, which locks you into working with a specific funeral home, final expense insurance gives your beneficiaries full flexibility. They receive a cash payout that they can use in whatever way they see fit. This can be for funeral expenses, but it could also be used for other important financial obligations. The flexibility ensures that your loved ones can make decisions based on their needs, not restrictions imposed by a funeral provider.

Final Expense Insurance vs. Traditional Life Insurance

While many veterans may already have life insurance, final expense insurance offers unique benefits that complement a larger life insurance policy. Traditional life insurance policies are typically used to replace lost income, pay off mortgages, or cover larger financial obligations. However, these policies may take time to pay out and may not be specifically designated for funeral costs.

Final expense policies, on the other hand, are designed to pay out quickly and provide funds specifically for funeral and other end-of-life expenses. This ensures that your family has the immediate financial support they need without having to worry about tapping into other resources.

How to Get Started with Final Expense Insurance for Veterans

If you’re a veteran living in Las Vegas, working with a local agent who understands the unique needs and costs of veterans is key to finding the right policy. They can help you determine the appropriate coverage amount based on your specific situation, and guide you through the process to secure a final expense policy that fits within your budget.

Final Thoughts: A Final Expense Policy is a Smart Choice for Veterans

While the VA offers some assistance with funeral expenses, it’s clear that these benefits won’t cover everything. A final expense policy ensures that veterans can provide financial security for their loved ones by covering out-of-pocket costs and leaving extra money behind as a gift. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your family won’t face a financial burden during a difficult time makes this an invaluable investment for veterans. Start Your Policy Today, Call for a Quote.