Funeral Cover Over 80 | Compare Quotes

Understanding Funeral Cover for over 80s

Why is it more difficult for over 80s to be covered?

While it may be difficult to find Funeral Cover once you're at the age of 80 due to the higher risk of death, there are policies available for this age group.

It may seem unfair that elderly people are less likely to receive Funeral Cover due to their age, but from an insurer's point of view, an older person is likely to pass away sooner than a younger person. This means that the older person could claim for benefits even though they've only been paying monthly premiums for a short amount of time.

Without sufficient cover, family members would have to pay for all your funeral arrangements, which they might not be able to do without getting into debt. There's no better time than the present to ensure that your funeral arrangements are fully taken care of in the event of your passing.

The best way to do this is to do your research and compare Funeral Cover plans online to find the right deal for you, especially if you are over 80 and need a policy that fits your budget. Please note that not all of Hippo's partners currently offer Funeral Cover for senior citizens.

Senior Citizens and Funeral Cover

If you're a senior citizen or looking to cover an elderly family member, the rules around Funeral Cover can change based on age. Here is what you need to know:

So if you're over 80, can you take out a funeral policy?

If you're a senior citizen but haven't taken out a policy before, you might need some support from your family. This is because most Funeral Cover policies provide cover after an existing policyholder reaches the age of 65, but will no longer charge premiums. That is why the cut-off age to compare Funeral Cover quotes on Hippo.co.za is 64 years of age.

Can you cover a family member who is over 80 on your plan?

This is where your family comes into play, as some Funeral Cover plans allow for policyholders to not only cover their spouse and children (sometimes age limits apply here, too), but to also include parents, parents-in-law and domestic workers.

So, if these extended family members are over 80 years of age, you'd have to disclose this and discuss adding them to your policy with your insurance provider or compare to find an insurer that allows for the inclusion of extended family members.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it more difficult for people over 80 to be covered?

Mortality risk rises with age, so insurers face higher likelihood of claims for new entrants over 80. That increases cost and underwriting complexity, so providers often restrict new applications, apply higher premiums, lower benefit limits, or longer waiting periods for this age group. Taking out cover earlier in life usually gives more options and better value, but if you’re already over 80 it’s still worth comparing providers to find the most suitable solution.

If you're over 80, can you still take out a Funeral Cover policy?

Some insurers will accept new applicants over 80, but availability varies and is not guaranteed. Where offered, cover may come with reduced benefit amounts, higher premiums, strict exclusions, or extended waiting periods. Ask the insurer for written terms and compare multiple providers before applying; a family member or adviser can help with the process.

Can you cover a family member who is over 80 on your plan?

Adding a family member over 80 depends on the insurer’s eligibility rules. Some policies allow extended-family lives (parents, in‑laws) but impose age caps, higher premiums, or special conditions for older lives assured. Always disclose the correct age and any relevant health information, and confirm any waiting periods or benefit limits before adding them to your plan.

Are there other options when it comes to Funeral Cover for over‑80s?

If standard funeral cover is unavailable or unaffordable, consider alternatives such as: existing policies started earlier in life that remain valid, smaller benefit amounts to reduce premiums, single-premium plans (if offered), or using life insurance where insurable interest exists. Community arrangements (stokvels) or savings can also supplement cover. Speak to a broker or insurer to identify options that fit your circumstances.

Do all insurers offer Funeral Cover for people over 80?

No. Insurers differ widely in whether they accept new lives over 80 and in the terms they apply. Some decline new applicants above a set age, others allow entry with restrictions. Always read policy wording carefully, request written confirmation of terms, and consider professional advice if you need help comparing offers.

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