Burial insurance with no medical exam & no waiting period
Almost every burial (final expense) policy skips the medical exam. And if you're reasonably healthy, you can get day-one coverage with no waiting period at all. Here's how it works.
There are two kinds. Simplified issue asks a few health questions, no exam — and pays out from day one. Guaranteed issue asks no health questions and accepts anyone 45–85, but has a 2-year waiting period for natural causes. Healthy applicants should choose simplified issue for day-one coverage.
Simplified issue vs guaranteed issue
| Simplified issue | Guaranteed issue | |
|---|---|---|
| Medical exam | None | None |
| Health questions | A few | None |
| Waiting period | Day one | 2 years (natural death) |
| Price | Lower | A bit higher |
| Best for | Reasonably healthy | Serious health issues |
Accidental death is covered from day one on both types.
Who qualifies for day-one coverage
Most seniors do
If you're not in a nursing home and don't have a terminal or very recent serious diagnosis, you'll likely qualify for simplified issue with immediate coverage.
Common conditions are OK
Controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, and past conditions usually still qualify for day-one plans.
If you don't qualify
Guaranteed issue accepts you regardless — you just wait 2 years for the full natural-death benefit (premiums refunded + interest if you pass sooner).
Frequently asked questions
Can I really get life insurance with no medical exam?
Which burial insurance has no waiting period?
What happens if I die during the 2-year waiting period?
Will I be denied for health problems?
Related guides: Burial insurance cost by age · Best burial insurance companies · Coverage over 70 · Senior life insurance
Find out if you qualify for day-one coverage
Free 60-second check with a licensed agent. No exam, no obligation.
About these figures: the premiums and averages shown are estimates based on our own placed-policy data (our internal systems) — not official carrier-published quotes. Your actual rate depends on age, gender, tobacco use, health and coverage amount, and is confirmed by the carrier at application.