Compare funeral cover in South Africa

Frequent questions

What is funeral cover and how does it work in South Africa?

Funeral cover is a small-sum life policy that pays a tax-free lump sum, usually within 48 hours of a validated claim, to cover burial or cremation costs. Cover is capped at R100,000 per insured life, requires no medicals, and carries a standard six-month waiting period for death from natural causes.

How much does funeral cover cost per month in South Africa?

R30,000 of cover for a single adult runs roughly R65–R120 per month. A family plan covering two adults and four children at R30,000 each costs R200–R350 per month, and adding parents or in-laws typically adds R70–R160 per life depending on their age.

Why do funeral cover prices differ so much between insurers?

Insurers price on the ages of every insured life, the payout amount, whether funeral services are bundled, and how premiums escalate later in life. Two plans quoting the same R50,000 payout can differ by more than R150 a month once age-65 escalation clauses are taken into account.

Who can I add to a family funeral cover plan?

Most South African insurers allow a spouse, children including stillborn, parents, in-laws and extended family — some plans go up to 21 lives on a single policy. Each additional adult life is individually rated and starts its own waiting period.

How quickly does funeral cover pay out in SA?

Most South African insurers pay valid claims within 48 hours of receiving a death certificate, the claim form and proof of relationship.

Can I get funeral cover with no medical exam?

Yes — funeral cover up to R100,000 per life is guaranteed-acceptance in SA. Insurers offset this risk with a 6-month waiting period for natural death.

Who can I include on a funeral policy?

You can typically include your spouse, children (including stillborn), parents, in-laws and extended family. Some insurers go up to 21 people on a single plan.

Is funeral cover the same as life cover?

No. Funeral cover pays out within 48 hours specifically for funeral costs, capped at R100k per life. Life cover pays a much larger lump sum (often R1m+) but takes weeks and requires medical underwriting.