A graded benefit plan sits between a standard level benefit plan and a guaranteed issue plan in both cost and qualification criteria. It is designed for seniors who have some health conditions — enough to disqualify them from a level plan — but not severe enough to require a guaranteed issue policy.
Like all burial insurance, graded benefit plans are whole life policies: they do not expire, premiums are locked in, and the policy cannot be cancelled due to health changes. The key difference is the graded death benefit period.
Plan Types Available
Level Benefit
Full death benefit coverage from day one. Best for applicants in reasonably good health. Requires a short health questionnaire — no medical exam.
Graded Benefit
For applicants with some health concerns who may not qualify for a level plan. Full death benefit becomes payable after a 2-year waiting period.
Guaranteed Issue
No health questions whatsoever. Available to almost anyone ages 50–80. Best option for those with serious health conditions who may not qualify elsewhere.
How the Graded Period Works
During the first 2 years of the policy, the full death benefit is not payable if the insured passes away from natural causes. Instead, most carriers return 100% of premiums paid plus interest (typically 10%) to the beneficiary.
If death occurs due to an accident during the graded period, most plans pay the full death benefit immediately.
After the 2-year graded period, the full death benefit is payable for any cause of death. The policy then functions identically to a level benefit plan from that point forward.
Monthly Cost Ranges — $10,000 Policy
The table below shows typical monthly premium ranges by age and gender. Actual rates depend on your health history, coverage amount, and carrier.
| Age | Female / Month | Male / Month | Plan Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age 50 | $18 – $28 | $22 – $35 | Level Benefit |
| Age 55 | $22 – $34 | $27 – $42 | Level Benefit |
| Age 60 | $28 – $44 | $35 – $55 | Level Benefit |
| Age 65 | $35 – $56 | $46 – $70 | Level / Graded |
| Age 70 | $44 – $70 | $55 – $90 | Level / Graded |
| Age 75 | $65 – $105 | $85 – $135 | Graded / Guaranteed |
| Age 80 | $90 – $140 | $120 – $185 | Graded / Guaranteed |
Estimates for a $10,000 policy. See the full cost breakdown →
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get burial insurance without a medical exam?
What is the age limit for burial insurance?
What is the difference between burial insurance and final expense insurance?
Does my premium increase over time?
Who will contact me after I submit my information?
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