Missouri: Final Expense & Burial Insurance

Benjamin Shafer • Feb 18, 2024
For each year that passes, funeral expenses get more expensive. In fact, you can pay upwards of $10,000 for a funeral today. Missouri prices can be slightly less, depending on the style of service you choose, the means of transportation you use, where you decide to hold the funeral, and which memorial expenses you include. But even funerals in Missouri can reach that amount, and these high prices can cause your loved ones to struggle if they’re left to pay your funeral costs.

That’s why so many people are planning their funerals in advance. They don’t want their loved ones to experience financial stress because of the cost of their final arrangements. They’re looking for ways to pay for their funeral to help alleviate the burden.

And some options allow you to leave enough money to pay for your funeral as well as other final expenses such as a car payment balance, utility bills, and medical expenses. One option is final expense insurance. Depending on the payout amount you choose, the policy could pay for some or all of these things.

You’ll experience a few differences when buying final expense insurance in Missouri compared to other states. We’ll guide you through the process and show you how Funeral Advantage can help make it easier for your loved ones after you’re gone.

The Funeral Rule
Federal law dictates basic laws surrounding burial services. Known as the Funeral Rule, these rules apply to every state and are enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

  • Pricing – Funeral homes must quote prices for products and services over the phone if requested. In person, they must provide a general price list, a casket price list, and a burial container price list (when applicable).
  • Contracts – An itemized statement of charges and estimates must be provided before a contract is signed.
  • Pre-Need Funeral Plans – FTC laws do not apply to the language of pre-need contracts. They do not govern payment options, costs, modifications, transfers, cancellations, or administrative fees.
Funeral & Burial Expectations in Missouri
Each state has different laws and requirements that govern what happens when someone dies and Missouri is no exception. The state has specific statutes that you will have to follow when someone dies.

Death Certificates
Missouri has a two-step process for certifying a death, requiring first a medical certification and then a death certificate.

The state allows coroners, medical examiners, physicians, physician assistants, assistant physicians, and advanced practice registered nurses to issue medical certifications. The certifier must complete the document within 72 hours of the death. To complete the certification, they use an electronic program called the Missouri Vital Records Electronic system (MoEVR) to file the certificates. The system also allows any of the above-named people to assign the task of entering the medical certification into the electronic system to someone else, such as a funeral director or someone else who has been approved as a data entry person.

Once the death is medically certified, the funeral director completes the death certificate. They do this with help from the deceased’s family and the physician. In cases where a funeral director is not involved, the doctor (or other medical professional who recorded the medical certification) typically completes the death certificate. This step can only happen after the original certifier electronically signs the certification.

If you work with a funeral director, they can request copies of the death certificate for you, or your family can request one.

Embalming & Refrigeration
Missouri has some regulations when it comes to embalming and refrigeration. Once a person is deceased for 24 hours, the state requires that the body is refrigerated or embalmed. This is not Missouri law, but rather a regulation that all Missouri licensed funeral homes must abide by. If you plan for a home funeral, this regulation does not apply.

However, there are some circumstances in which Missouri requires a deceased person to be embalmed. They are:
  • If someone dies of an infectious disease and won’t be buried or cremated within 24 hours.
  • If a person dies of a contagious disease and is shipped by common carrier. This regulation isn’t true if the shipper wraps the body in a sheet saturated with disinfectant and places it in a sealed casket.
  • If the deceased person is shipped by common carrier but won’t reach the destination for 24 hours or more. This regulation becomes null if that person travels in a sealed casket.

Burial Requirements
In Missouri, a person does not have to be placed in a casket when buried. But it’s important that you check with the cemetery because they all have different rules.

Like most other states, Missouri specifies who can make the burial arrangements for a deceased person. The state allows these individuals to make the decisions, in this order:
  • Your appointed attorney to whom you have granted a durable power of attorney
  • Your surviving spouse
  • Any of your surviving children
  • Any surviving parent
  • Surviving siblings
  • The next of kin
  • A person who is willing to assume financial responsibility
  • The county coroner or medical examiner
If a disagreement arises, the funeral director is allowed to use the instructions of any in the deciding party. For instance, if siblings can’t come to a decision, the funeral director can choose which sibling’s instructions to carry out.

Cremation Services
Missouri allows cremation as long as the funeral director receives two signed documents. The first is a cremation authorization signed by the spouse, a majority of the deceased’s children, a parent, or a legal guardian. The second document is the death certificate, signed by the doctor and filed with the County Health Department. Alternatively, cremation can occur if the medical examiner or coroner releases the deceased for cremation.

In addition to traditional cremation, Missouri allows alkaline hydrolysis. This chemical process dissolves the body into liquid and bone and is greener than traditional cremation because no matter enters the air. It is also called flameless cremation.

Average Funeral Costs in Missouri
Final expenses in Missouri vary widely, from an average as low as $1,000 up to $12,445. The exact cost of a funeral will depend on what services and products you choose.

Service Costs by Type

SERVICE TYPE DESCRIPTION AVERAGE COST
Direct Cremation No viewing or ceremony $1,750
Immediate Burial No viewing or ceremony $1,000
Cremation Memorial Facility fees, viewing, & service $3,000
Full Service Facility fees, viewing, & service $7,800

Saint Louis Funeral Costs

SERVICE TYPE AVERAGE COST PRICE RANGE
Direct Cremation $1,500 $1,000 – $1,750
Direct Burial $3,300 $1,995 – $2,850
Cremation Memorial $2,350 $1,995 – $2,850
Full Service $6,150 $2,795 – $7,295

Kansas City Funeral Costs

SERVICE TYPE AVERAGE COST PRICE RANGE
Direct Cremation $1,100 $795 – $1,495
Direct Burial $3,200 $1,995 – $4,275
Cremation Memorial $2,700 $2,200 – $5,150
Full Service $5,300 $4,495 – $8,980

Help With Funeral Costs in Missouri

Because funerals cost more than they used to, many people are taking the necessary steps to ensure their funerals are paid for before they pass. This eliminates the chance that loved ones have to deal with the financial stress of having to pay for an expensive funeral. There are several ways you can handle your arrangements in advance, allowing your loved ones to celebrate your life in peace without the stress of an unexpected financial hardship.


Here are some ways you can provide for your funeral costs.


Term Insurance

When you buy term life insurance, you are doing so for a predetermined period of time. In other words, instead of buying life insurance one time and then forgetting about it, you buy it for a single term with an expiration date. When the policy expires, you will need to renew it – at a higher premium – and potentially be required to re-qualify which can be difficult.


Buying term life insurance allows you to pay lower monthly premiums, but at a cost. By the time the term ends, you will be older and may not have the same health status. And both of those things will require you to pay higher premiums on the next policy. Most term insurance policies don’t carry cash value either, which means you can’t withdraw a portion of the premiums you’ve paid into the policy in the form of a policy loan.


Final Expense Insurance

Final expense insurance is a type of whole life policy that is designed specifically to pay your final expenses, including your funeral. In most instances, you will not have to take a medical exam to qualify for this type of policy. Coverage is issued based on answers to health questions on the application.


Pre-need Plans

You also have the option of arranging for and paying for your funeral with preneed insurance. When buying one of these plans, you and the funeral director of your choice will plan your funeral and work out the payment arrangements. You can either pay upfront or make monthly payments until you’ve paid the balance in full.


But you should know that pre-need funeral plans come with some risks. For instance, you might die in another state, or the funeral home could go out of business. If you agree to one of these plans, make sure everything is in writing, and ask about price guarantees and what happens if the funeral home closes.


Government Assistance

The federal government will pay a one-time death benefit of $255 if you are eligible for social security benefits. And if you are a veteran, the VA will pay up to $300 for funeral expenses.


The state of Missouri does not offer funeral assistance unless the deceased is indigent and without any relatives or financial supporters. That program is called the Indigent Burial and Funeral Fund, and it pays $400 to the county or city that buries an indigent person.


Leading Causes of Death in Missouri

In Missouri, the top ten leading causes of death in the state are as follows:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Lung disease
  • Accidents
  • Stroke
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Diabetes
  • Nephritis/Kidney
  • Influenza/Pneumonia
  • Suicide


No Exam in Missouri

When looking for final expense insurance In Missouri, you can probably get it no matter what health status you have. You will probably have to answer a few questions about your health. In other words, with only a few questions, it’s possible to get final expense insurance no matter your age or health.


Free Look Period

Most states require insurance companies to offer buyers a free look period. That’s a period where consumers can change their mind about buying an insurance policy and get a full refund. But Missouri law doesn’t establish a free look period.


Keep in mind, though, most insurance companies willingly provide free look periods for Missouri residents. But you’ll need to pay attention to the time period because each insurer will be different.


How to Get Burial Insurance

In your quest to find final expense insurance, you should ensure you only work with a company that has years of experience and a great reputation among consumers.


And when you find the insurer you want to work with, make sure to explore all of your options when selecting the amount of the death benefit. You can choose an amount that will only pay for your funeral, or you can increase the amount so those you leave behind can pay for your other final expenses as well. Or you may choose an amount that will leave extra cash to your beneficiaries. Remember, the higher the payout, the more your monthly premiums will be.

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Unveiling the Veil: The Average Cost of Funerals in the United States (2024)

By Benjamin Shafer • 02 Mar, 2024
Planning a funeral for a loved one is an emotionally charged experience, often compounded by the burden of financial considerations. Understanding the average cost of funerals in the United States can help ease some of that burden and guide informed decision-making during this sensitive time. The Bottom Line: According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the median cost of a funeral in the United States in 2024 was approximately $9,150. This figure includes the basic services of funeral homes, embalming, and a casket, but excludes additional costs like cemetery plots, monuments, and death certificates. A Breakdown of Costs: Funeral Home Services: This encompasses basic services like coordinating arrangements, directing the funeral, and providing staff and facilities. It typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000. Embalming: Embalming preserves the body and is required by law in some cases. It adds $700 to $1,500 to the cost. Casket: Caskets can vary widely in price depending on the material, style, and features. The median cost falls between $2,500 and $6,000. Cemetery Plot and Vault: The cost of a cemetery plot can vary significantly depending on location and availability. It typically ranges from $2,000 to $10,000, and a concrete vault adds another $1,500 to $3,000. Factors Affecting Cost: Several factors can influence the overall cost of a funeral, including: Location: Funeral costs tend to be higher in urban areas compared to rural ones. Type of service: Traditional burials with embalming and viewing are more expensive than cremation, which typically costs $6,280 on average. Casket choice: As mentioned earlier, casket material and features significantly impact the price. Cemetery fees: Plot location, size, and opening/closing fees can vary greatly. Additional services: Flowers, catering, transportation, and personalized touches add to the overall cost. Cost-Saving Tips: Shop around: Compare prices from different funeral homes and cemeteries. Consider cremation: Cremation is generally less expensive than traditional burial. Choose a simpler casket: Opt for a more affordable material or forego features you don't need. Pre-plan your funeral: Discussing and planning your wishes in advance can help your family save money and make informed decisions. Remember: The average cost of a funeral is just a starting point. By understanding the breakdown of costs and considering your individual needs and preferences, you can make informed choices that align with your budget and values. Additional Resources: National Funeral Directors Association: https://www.nfda.org/: https://www.nfda.org/ Funeral Consumers Alliance: https://www.funerals.org/: https://www.funerals.org/ The Cremation Association of North America: https://www.cremationassociation.org/: https://www.cremationassociation.org/

Planning for Peace of Mind: A Guide to Final Expense Life Insurance

By Benjamin Shafer • 15 Feb, 2024
No one likes to think about their own mortality, but planning for the inevitable is an important part of life. Final expense life insurance can help ease the financial burden on your loved ones when you pass away by providing them with funds to cover your final expenses, such as funeral costs, medical bills, and outstanding debts. What is Final Expense Life Insurance? Final expense life insurance is a whole life insurance policy designed to cover your end-of-life expenses. Unlike traditional life insurance policies, which can have high premiums and large death benefits, final expense policies typically have lower premiums and death benefits in the range of $5,000 to $30,000. This makes them an affordable option for people who want to ensure their loved ones are not left with a financial burden after they pass away. Who Needs Final Expense Life Insurance? Final expense life insurance is a good option for anyone who wants to: Protect their loved ones from financial hardship: Funeral costs, medical bills, and other end-of-life expenses can add up quickly. Final expense life insurance can help your loved ones cover these costs without having to dip into their own savings or take on debt. Leave a legacy: If you have any outstanding debts or want to leave a gift to your loved ones, final expense life insurance can help you do that. Gain peace of mind: Knowing that your final expenses are covered can give you and your loved ones peace of mind. How Much Coverage Do I Need? The amount of final expense life insurance coverage you need will depend on your individual circumstances. Some factors to consider include: The cost of your funeral: Funeral costs can vary depending on your location and preferences. Any outstanding debts you have: If you have any outstanding debts, such as credit card debt or a mortgage, you may want to consider getting enough coverage to pay them off. Whether you want to leave a legacy: If you want to leave a gift to your loved ones, you will need to factor that into your coverage amount. How to Choose a Final Expense Life Insurance Policy When choosing a final expense life insurance policy, it is important to shop around and compare rates and features from different companies. Here are some things to consider: The death benefit: This is the amount of money that will be paid to your beneficiaries upon your death. The premium: This is the amount you will pay each month for your coverage. The underwriting requirements : Some companies may have stricter underwriting requirements than others. This means they may require you to take a medical exam or answer questions about your health history. The benefits and exclusions: Some policies may offer additional benefits, such as accidental death coverage or waiver of premium riders. Be sure to read the policy carefully to understand what is and is not covered. Final Thoughts Final expense life insurance can be a valuable tool for helping your loved ones cope with the financial burden of your death. By taking the time to understand your needs and shop around for the right policy, you can ensure that your loved ones are taken care of when you are gone. Tips for Planning Your Funeral In addition to considering final expense life insurance, here are a few tips for planning your funeral: Talk to your loved ones about your wishes: Let your loved ones know what your preferences are for your funeral, such as whether you want a traditional burial or cremation. Pre-plan your funeral: You can pre-plan your funeral and even pay for it in advance. This can help take some of the stress off of your loved ones at a difficult time. Create a will: A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes for how your assets will be distributed after you die. By taking the time to plan ahead, you can help ensure that your loved ones are taken care of after you are gone.

Simple Funeral Tips

By Benjamin Shafer • 12 Feb, 2024
Whether you’re planning a funeral for yourself or someone you love, it can be a difficult and emotional time. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process: Before the funeral: Gather information: If you’re planning a funeral for someone else, be sure to gather information about their wishes, including whether they had any pre-arrangements, budget preferences, and desired ceremony type. Set a budget: Funerals can be expensive, so it’s important to set a realistic budget upfront. Consider all the costs involved, such as the funeral home, casket or urn, cemetery plot, flowers, and death certificate. Choose a funeral home: Do some research to find a funeral home that meets your needs and budget. Ask about their services and fees, and be sure to read reviews. Decide on the type of ceremony: There are many different types of funeral ceremonies, from traditional religious services to more informal celebrations of life. Choose a format that feels right for you and the deceased. Write a eulogy or obituary: If you’re giving a eulogy, start writing it early so you have time to gather your thoughts and express yourself thoughtfully. An obituary is a brief public notice of someone’s death that can be published in a newspaper or online. During the funeral: Dress appropriately: While there is no strict dress code for funerals, it’s generally best to dress conservatively and respectfully. Avoid bright colors or revealing clothing. Be respectful of others: This is a time for grieving, so be mindful of your behavior and be respectful of others’ emotions. Offer condolences: If you see someone who is grieving, offer your condolences in a sincere and heartfelt way. You can simply say something like, “I’m so sorry for your loss” or “I’m thinking of you during this difficult time.” Follow the program: If there is a funeral program, be sure to follow it so you know what to expect. After the funeral: Stay in touch with the family : The weeks and months after a funeral can be especially difficult for the bereaved. Stay in touch with the family and offer your support. Send a sympathy card: If you didn’t attend the funeral, you can still send a sympathy card to the family. Express your condolences and let them know you’re thinking of them. Help with practical tasks: If you’re close to the family, offer to help with practical tasks such as cooking meals, running errands, or watching children. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Allow yourself and others to grieve in whatever way feels right.
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