Does Burial Insurance Cover Green Burials?

Defining green burials

A green burial is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burials. The caskets used in traditional burials are often made of wood that is the result of deforestation. Embalming fluids also contain chemicals that will degrade into the soil and cause environmental harm. Hence why green burials do not feature embalming. In this way, you save on the cost of embalming (estimated to be $725). 

A green burial is simply being placed in a biodegradable coffin and then being placed into the ground. It’s easier on the environment and does not come at the expense of the earth’s natural resources. 

How Much Do Green Burials Cost

Green burials are often cheaper than traditional burials. The materials used for coffins are affordable and biodegradable. This is also done without a vault or embalming, which saves costs because vaults are estimated to cost $1,395, and embalming is roughly $725. By default, this type of burial is already over $2,000 cheaper than the traditional alternative.

It is best to check with your funeral home to see if this service is offered, as not every funeral home provides green burials. However, green burials are seeing a boost in popularity, so if you expect to live longer, your funeral home will be more likely to offer this service.

Green burials and Burial insurance

Burial insurance does cover green burials because with burial insurance, the funds are dispersed with no strings attached. The death benefit does not have any rules regarding how it is used - while funeral costs are the primary motive, the funds can help cover other needs. Also, since green burials cost less, burial insurance can cover it. You would actually be able to find a policy that could cover a funeral with a green burial in its entirety. Not only are you helping with the environment and the earth’s natural resources, but you are also easing the financial burden of the funeral costs.

If you have any questions regarding green burials and burial insurance, or anything else related to burial insurance, please call us today at 1-877-674-0236.