Funeral cover is a type of life insurance policy that pays out a once-off cash amount when you (or a family member covered under the funeral policy) pass away. This cover is renewable and is paid for through a monthly premium which means that your cover is only active as long as you continue to pay on a monthly basis. The cash payout can be used towards expenses for the funeral like a coffin, tombstone, and catering, or provide immediate financial assistance for non-funeral related expenses to loved ones.
Some funeral cover products consist of funeral assistance benefits like car hire, pre-paid electricity, groceries or others and may also include a cash payout.
Funeral cover is not underwritten, which makes it slightly different to life insurance in that it doesn’t require any medical tests or health assessments.
Does the policy only pay out if someone I cover dies?
Funeral policies typically only pay if a dependant on the policy passes away. In some cases, like with our ZAZU On-Hand, the insurer provides living benefits which are available immediately and at any time for the duration of the policy with ZAZU Life.
Do I need to do any medical exams, questionnaires, or HIV tests to take out a ZAZU Life funeral policy?
Nope! Funeral plans are not underwritten, which means that we insure you and your loved ones as you are. This is why we have waiting periods and once you’ve managed to clear these you’ll be fully covered!
Am I covered for an event that happens outside of South Africa?
You are, as a South African resident, covered while travelling outside of the country, as long as you are not deemed to be resident in another country (for example working permanently in another country).
Can I purchase funeral insurance in addition to other types of coverage?
You absolutely can yes. Funeral insurance is a stand-alone product which can be purchased on its own or can complement other life insurance products. Funeral insurance pays out a lot quicker with a lot less red tape which is something you need to consider if it is important to provide for loved ones within a short space of time (typically 24 hours, but ZAZU Life pays 100% of valid claims in 12 hours!).
Am I covered even if I suffer from any existing medical conditions, or get COVID-19?
Yes! Death as a result of any known medical condition or Covid-19 is regarded as a natural death and the normal waiting period rules and exclusions will apply. If someone on your policy passes away from any disease/illness (e.g. diabetes or cancer) or Covid-19 after the waiting period is completed, they are covered. The cover is also not dependent on your COVID-19 vaccination status.
