One of the most common questions families ask when arranging cremation is: will insurance cover this? The answer depends on the type of insurance your loved one had. Here is a clear overview of how different types of insurance may help cover cremation costs in Illinois.
Life Insurance
A traditional life insurance policy pays a death benefit to named beneficiaries. This benefit is not specifically designated for funeral or cremation expenses, but beneficiaries can use the funds for any purpose — including cremation costs. Most life insurance companies pay out within a few weeks of receiving a completed claim form and a certified death certificate. You will need the policy number and ten certified copies of the death certificate — included in every Trusted Cremations package.
Timing consideration: Cremation arrangements may need to be made before the life insurance check arrives. Discuss payment arrangements with us by calling (847) 404-2016.
Final Expense Insurance
Final expense insurance (sometimes called burial insurance) is a small whole life policy specifically designed to cover end-of-life costs. Policies typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 and are easy to obtain, often with no medical exam required. At $1,300 for our Traditional Cremation Package, most final expense policies more than cover the full cost.
Pre-Need Funeral Plans
If your loved one pre-arranged and pre-paid for cremation, those funds are typically held in trust and applied to the cost of services when the time comes. Check your loved one’s financial documents or consult their estate attorney.
VA Benefits for Veterans
If the deceased was a veteran, the VA may provide a burial allowance to help offset cremation costs. Eligibility depends on whether the veteran died from a service-connected disability, was receiving VA pension or compensation, or died in a VA facility. Contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000. We also offer $100 off our cremation packages for veterans — Traditional at $1,200, Flameless at $1,600.
Social Security Lump-Sum Death Benefit
The Social Security Administration provides a one-time payment of $255 to the surviving spouse or eligible child of a deceased Social Security recipient. Notify the SSA promptly after the death.
Medicaid and Medicare
Generally, neither Medicaid nor Medicare covers cremation expenses. Medicaid may, in limited circumstances, assist with very basic cremation costs for individuals with no estate. Contact your county’s public aid office for eligibility information.
Assignment of Insurance Benefits
Some cremation providers allow families to assign a life insurance policy benefit directly to the cremation provider as payment, so the funeral home bills the insurance company directly. Ask us about this option when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if there is no money available to cover cremation?
In cases of genuine financial hardship, county or state resources may be available to cover basic cremation costs. Contact your local county office for information about indigent burial or cremation assistance in Illinois.
How many death certificates will I need for insurance purposes?
Most institutions require original certified copies. We include ten certified copies in every package — typically enough for all purposes.
Questions About Payment? Call Trusted Cremations
We work with families compassionately on payment arrangements. Call (847) 404-2016. 1821 Walden Office Square, Suite #400, Schaumburg, IL 60173.