If we were to die today, how would our final expenses be paid? Simply put, final expenses are money to pay the cost of a funeral and burial, money to pay off any outstanding debt and money for your surviving spouse to replace the Social Security or other income that ends at your death.
Upon your passing, money is paid directly from the insurance company to your beneficiary to use as they see fit, so your family won’t be stuck paying for the high costs associated with your burial.
Sources: New Jersey State Funeral Directors Association, 2002 survey; National Center for policy Analysis “How Much Does it Cost to Die” (2002); Federal Estate and Gift Tax Reports Commerce Clearing House; Probate based on average estate of $50,000.