Back in 1979, when many of us first called Redlands home, a funeral typically cost around $2,000.

 

It seemed like a manageable expense then,  about the same as buying a decent used car. Fast forward to today, and that same funeral now costs between $8,000 and $15,000 in California. That's not including cemetery plots, headstones, flowers, or reception costs.

If you've been in Redlands for decades like many of our neighbors, you've watched housing prices rise, groceries cost more, and yes — funeral expenses multiply several times over. What once seemed affordable has become a significant financial burden for families.

 

Even the IRS Recognizes Life Insurance is Essential

 

Here's something that might surprise you: Even the IRS thinks life insurance is so important that they allow it as a necessary expense when they're trying to collect taxes from you.

 

That's right, the U.S. government wants you to have life insurance. When the IRS is determining what expenses you can keep paying while resolving tax debt, life insurance premiums are considered essential and allowable.

 

If the federal government — an agency not exactly known for being generous with taxpayers — considers life insurance a necessity rather than a luxury, that should tell you something about its importance for every American family.

 

The Reality of Today's Final Expenses

Consider what your family might face:

• Basic funeral services: $8,000-$15,000
• Cemetery plot: $2,000-$5,000
• Headstone or marker: $1,000-$3,000
• Flowers and reception: $500-$2,000
• Outstanding medical bills: Often thousands more
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For many Redlands families living on fixed incomes or dealing with today's economic pressures, these costs can create serious financial stress during an already difficult time.

 

Common Scenarios Our Neighbors Face

 

• The surviving spouse suddenly confronts funeral costs without a plan in place
• Adult children living in expensive California markets struggle to cover unexpected expenses
• Families disagree about costs because final wishes weren't clearly communicated
• Retirement savings get depleted to cover final expenses, leaving surviving spouses financially vulnerable

More Than Just Funeral Costs

Final expense insurance helps with expenses beyond the funeral itself:

• Outstanding medical bills and debts
• Mortgage or rent payments during the transition period
• Travel expenses for out-of-town family members
• Time off work for grieving family members
• Legal and administrative costs
  
  

Why Redlands Families Choose Final Expense Coverage

Peace of Mind: Your family won't face financial hardship during their grief
Preserved Savings: Retirement funds and family savings stay intact for their intended purposes
Clear Wishes: Documentation that helps your family honor your preferences
Immediate Help: Benefits available when your family needs them most
Inflation Protection: Coverage that keeps pace with rising costs

Who Should Consider Final Expense Insurance?

• Long-time Redlands residents who've watched costs rise over the decades
• Seniors who want to protect their spouse from financial burden
• Parents who don't want their adult children worrying about expenses
• Anyone whose current life insurance may not cover today's final costs
• People with health issues who may not qualify for traditional life insurance
• Those on fixed incomes who need affordable, predictable premiums
  
  

Questions Every Family Should Ask

✓ Have you calculated what a funeral costs today versus when you first moved to Redlands?
✓ Do you have funds specifically set aside for final expenses?
✓ Would your family know your wishes for funeral arrangements?
✓ Could your spouse or children handle these inflated costs without strain?
✓ Is your decades-old life insurance policy enough to cover today's expenses?

Lincoln Heritage Funeral Advantage: Built for Real Families

Lincoln Heritage understands that final expense insurance should be:

• Affordable: Monthly premiums that fit your budget
• Accessible: Coverage available even with health concerns
• Guaranteed: Your premiums won't increase and coverage won't be canceled
• Simple: Easy application process, often no medical exam required
• Reliable: Over 50 years of helping American families plan ahead

Don't Wait — Costs Keep Rising

If funeral costs increased from $2,000 to $15,000 over the past 40+ years, imagine what they'll cost in the next decade. The time to plan is now, while you're healthy and premiums are most affordable.

Ready to protect your family from tomorrow's even higher costs?

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CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE QUOTE AND INFORMATION PACKET

Learn about affordable final expense insurance options designed for families who understand the importance of planning ahead. No obligation. No pressure. Just honest information to help you make the right decision

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About Lincoln Heritage Funeral Advantage: For over 50 years, Lincoln Heritage has specialized in affordable, accessible final expense insurance designed to ease the financial burden on families during their most difficult times.

 

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This article contains sponsored content. The author may receive compensation for referrals to Lincoln Heritage Funeral Advantage.