Short answer
Northwestern Mutual does not list a dedicated final expense or burial policy for individuals on its own website. Northwestern Mutual policyholders usually own fully underwritten whole life or term bought through a Northwestern Mutual financial advisor. If you want coverage sized for funeral costs, other carriers specialize in it, and an independent agent can compare them.
Life Insurance Policy Desk is not Northwestern Mutual and cannot see or change your account with the company. We are an independent brokerage: we can explain a Northwestern Mutual policy you already own, or compare Northwestern Mutual with other final expense carriers, at no cost.
What final expense insurance covers
A final expense policy pays a lump sum to your beneficiary when you die. The money is not restricted, so families usually use it for the funeral or cremation, a burial plot or marker, flowers and the service, and final medical or household bills. Because it is whole life coverage, the premium is fixed for life and the policy does not expire as long as premiums are paid.
- Simplified issue plans ask health questions but need no medical exam. If you qualify, the full benefit usually applies from the first day.
- Guaranteed issue plans ask no health questions. They cost more for the same amount and normally have a waiting period of two or three years for deaths from natural causes.
- Graded benefit plans pay a reduced amount in the first years, then the full benefit.
Before you buy or replace a final expense policy
- Answer the health questions honestly. A wrong answer can let the insurer contest a claim in the first two years.
- If you qualify for simplified issue, avoid paying more for guaranteed issue and its waiting period.
- Replacing a policy you already have can restart a waiting period and cost more at an older age. Compare first.
- Name a beneficiary who can act quickly, and tell them where the policy is.
A licensed agent can compare Northwestern Mutual with other final expense carriers for your age, health and state, or review a policy you already own.
Frequently asked questions
Does Northwestern Mutual sell final expense insurance?
Northwestern Mutual does not list a dedicated final expense or burial policy for individuals on its own website. Northwestern Mutual policyholders usually own fully underwritten whole life or term bought through a Northwestern Mutual financial advisor. Several other carriers sell it, and an independent agent can compare them for you.
What is the difference between simplified issue and guaranteed issue final expense?
Simplified issue asks health questions but has no medical exam; if you qualify, the full benefit usually applies from day one. Guaranteed issue asks no health questions, so it costs more for the same amount and normally pays only a refund of premiums, plus a set percentage, if death from natural causes happens in the first two or three years.
How much final expense coverage do people usually buy?
Most final expense policies are between about $5,000 and $25,000, sized to cover a funeral or cremation, a burial plot or marker, and a few final bills. The right amount depends on the arrangements you want and on any savings or other coverage your family can use.