Life Insurance vs Funeral Insurance

In South Africa, life insurance and funeral insurance are two types of insurance policies that are commonly sought after by individuals. While they share some similarities, they are distinct in their purpose and offer different types of coverage. It is important to understand the difference between the two to make an informed decision about the type of coverage that best fits your needs.

Both life and funeral are contracts between an individual and an insurance company, in which the individual pays premiums and the insurance company pays a benefit to the individual's beneficiaries in the event of the individual's death. The primary difference being that funeral is for funeral associated costs, whilst life is for the general expenses associated with the costs of life one’s family would be faced with in the event of a bread winner being deceased (bond, school fees, medical aid etc.). Funeral insurance can provide peace of mind to those who are concerned about the costs of their funeral. In South Africa, funeral insurance is often offered as a type of coverage that is separate from life insurance, or as an additional benefit that can be added to a life insurance policy. This type of insurance is usually taken out to help pay for the costs of a funeral, including the cost of a burial plot, a casket, and a headstone.

The settlement, or payment periods also differ. Funeral payments usually occur 24-48 hours after submission of claims due to the urgency associated with conducting a funeral. Settlement of a life policy take considerably longer, this is due to significantly larger amounts being involved and the need to ensure that there are no fraudulent claims. Life insurance can also be taken out for a specific period, such as 20 or 30 years, and can be customized to suit an individual's needs and financial situation.

When considering the difference between life and funeral insurance, it is important to consider your personal needs and financial situation and to consult with a financial advisor who can help you determine the best type of coverage for your specific needs. For example, if you are concerned about the cost of your funeral and want to provide peace of mind to your loved ones, funeral insurance may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are more concerned about providing financial protection to your loved ones in the event of your death, life insurance may be a better fit. Just be sure to make an informed decision.