About 3,757,000 people in New York are 65 or older. A $10,000 final expense policy is a common pick. In a published national sample, that costs $33 to $134 a month between ages 60 and 80.
Sample $10,000 rates by age
| Age | Women | Men |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | $24 | $31 |
| 55 | $28 | $36 |
| 60 | $33 | $43 |
| 65 | $41 | $54 |
| 70 | $53 | $70 |
| 75 | $71 | $97 |
| 80 | $98 | $134 |
| 85 | $136 | $193 |
National sample from Choice Mutual, Rates valid as of March 9, 2026. Not a New York quote.
New York rules
- Free look
- 10 days
- Grace period
- 31 days
- Guaranty protection
- $500,000
- Help line
- 1-800-342-3736New York State Department of Financial Services
What a funeral costs
Nationally, the median funeral with viewing and burial was $8,300 in 2023. With cremation it was $6,280. Cemetery costs are extra. Add up your own.
New York cities with the most seniors
Common questions
How much is final expense insurance in New York?
It depends on your age, health and tobacco use. A published national sample puts a $10,000 policy at $41 a month for a 65 year old woman and $54 for a 65 year old man. Prices in New York may differ.
Is burial insurance the same as final expense in New York?
Yes. Burial insurance, final expense and senior life are names for the same kind of small whole life policy.
Source: FTC Funeral Rule · NFDA price study
Can I return a final expense policy in New York?
Yes. New York gives you at least 10 days to look it over and return it for a refund.
Source: New York free look law
What if I am turned down for health reasons?
Guaranteed issue plans ask no health questions. They usually have a waiting period of about 2 years before the full benefit pays for a death from illness.
Sources
- Choice Mutual, $10,000 Life Insurance Rates
- 2023 NFDA General Price List Study Shows Inflation Increasing Faster than the Cost of a Funeral (NFDA)
- Census ACS 2024 1 year estimates, table based summary file
- Census QuickFacts New York (ACS 2020-2024)
- NOLHGA: How You're Protected (coverage as of June 1, 2025)
- NOLHGA: Contact My Guaranty Association
- NAIC Model Law Chart LI-30, Life Insurance Disclosure (Fall 2023)
