If your spouse needs your income or pension, a 10 or 20 year term may still fit. For final costs, a small whole life policy is the usual pick.
When one spouse dies, the household can lose a check. In January 2026 the average aged widow or widower got $1,919 a month from Social Security, SSA said.
A survivor who claims between 60 and full retirement age gets less than the full benefit. SSA says payments start at 71.5% and can reach 100% at full retirement age.
Final expense whole life is made to cover a funeral and bills. It is often sold in small amounts like $10,000 or $25,000, and many plans have no exam.
Tips that help
- Figure out how much your spouse would lose if your check stopped.
- Price a 10 year term if you still have a mortgage.
- For a funeral, look at $10,000 to $25,000 of whole life.
- Get quotes from more than one insurer. Prices vary.
- Tell your family where your policy is.
Coverage that fits
Common questions
What does $10,000 of final expense cost at 65?
Choice Mutual lists $41 a month for a 65 year old woman and $54 for a man, non tobacco whole life, rates valid as of March 9, 2026.
Can I get term after 60?
Yes. MoneyGeek lists 20 year term at 60 and 65, and 10 year term at 70 to 80.
Does Social Security pay for a funeral?
Only a little. SSA pays a one time $255 to some spouses or children.
