Reaching your 70s does not mean life insurance options disappear — it means you need to be more strategic about which plan type you pursue. Most carriers offering burial insurance still accept applicants in their 70s, and many health conditions that would disqualify someone for traditional life insurance are fully accommodated within the final expense market.
Monthly premiums are higher in your 70s than in your 50s or 60s, which reflects the actuarial reality of age. But the coverage itself — a lump-sum death benefit paid to your family for funeral costs and expenses — is identical.
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.
Plan Types Available in Your 70s
Seniors in their early 70s who are in reasonably good health may still qualify for simplified issue (level benefit) plans, which offer the lowest premiums and immediate day-one coverage.
Those with significant health conditions — including diabetes, heart conditions, COPD, or recent hospitalisations — will typically qualify for graded benefit or guaranteed issue plans. These carry higher premiums and a 2-year waiting period, but they provide genuine coverage that pays the full death benefit after that period.
A licensed agent can run through your specific health history and tell you which plan type you qualify for and what the monthly rate would be.
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 →
Want Your Actual Rate?
A licensed agent can review your specific situation and walk you through the options available — at no charge and with no obligation to purchase.
Check What I Qualify ForA licensed insurance agent may contact you. No obligation to purchase.
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?
Is there burial insurance available at age 79?
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