Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance in Colorado
Updated November 14, 2026
The quick answer for Colorado
Yes, Coloradans can get guaranteed issue life insurance with no health questions and no exam, even after a decline. It’s the most expensive way to buy coverage, so it works best as a backup plan.
Guaranteed issue is a small whole life policy, usually $2,000 to $25,000, so your family has money for the funeral. The price is set for life.
Big insurers want near-perfect health. Final expense companies don’t. They ask a few yes/no questions, and many people with a health history still qualify for a cheaper level (simplified issue) or graded/modified plan.
What a funeral costs in Colorado
| Funeral with viewing and burial (Mountain region) | about $7,390 |
|---|---|
| Same funeral, national average | about $8,300 |
| Cemetery plot, opening and headstone | Extra |
NFDA 2023 regional averages. Your funeral home’s price list is the final word.
Good news: Colorado’s region has the lowest average funeral cost in the country, about $910 under the national number. Prices around Denver and in mountain towns can still run higher, so check locally.
How much coverage to buy
For a traditional burial, $9,000 to $15,000 covers most families once the cemetery is added. Cremation often takes $5,000 to $8,000. Our cremation vs. burial guide compares the two.
Since costs here are lower, don’t let a quote screen talk you into more than you need. Pick a payment you can keep for life.
How it works, in plain English
You apply and you’re accepted. There’s a waiting period of about two years. If you pass away from an illness during it, your family gets your payments back plus interest. After that, the full amount. Accidents are usually covered right away.
| Level benefit (simplified issue): a few yes/no questions | Full payout from day oneLowest price |
|---|---|
| Graded / modified benefit: fewer, easier questions | Partial payout in years 1–2Varies by carrier |
| Guaranteed issue: no questions at all | About a 2-year waitHighest price |
Learn more in our guaranteed issue guide and level vs. graded comparison.
Companies to know in Colorado
Plans and availability vary by state and change over time. These are well-known companies in this market:
Is guaranteed issue right for you?
Good fit if
- Final expense companies have already said no
- You’re in active treatment right now
- You want $2,000 to $25,000 for final costs
Try something cheaper if
- Your conditions are treated and stable
- You want full coverage on day one
- You need more than $25,000
Not sure? See conditions that usually don’t need guaranteed issue.
Good to know in Colorado
- Think a relative left a policy? Colorado’s Division of Insurance points families to a free Life Insurance Policy Locator. It’s confidential and costs nothing.
- Prepaid funeral plan or life insurance? A prepaid plan locks you into one funeral home. A life policy pays cash your family can use anywhere.
- Free help by phone. The Division of Insurance answers questions at 303-894-7499, or 800-930-3745 outside Denver.
- Tell your family. Keep the policy with your important papers and let your beneficiary know.
Quick questions
Can I get covered if I was declined before?
Yes. Guaranteed issue doesn’t ask about health. It’s still worth checking the cheaper options first.
Will my price go up later?
No. The premium is locked in for life.
Is there a medical exam?
No. Level and graded plans ask a few questions. Guaranteed issue asks none.
How fast does my family get paid?
A named beneficiary is paid directly by the insurer, usually within a few weeks, without probate.
Can I buy a policy for my mom or dad?
Yes, as long as they agree and sign the application.
Sources
The bottom line
Guaranteed issue is a dependable backup in Colorado, but most people should try a level (simplified issue) or graded/modified plan first. Funerals here cost less than most of the country, so $9,000 to $15,000 often covers a traditional burial.
General education only. This page is not an offer to sell insurance in Colorado. Ages, limits and waiting periods vary by carrier.
More states on the way
We add new state guides regularly. Need coverage in a state that isn’t listed yet? Get a free quote or call (215) 999-3168 and we’ll tell you what’s available where you or your family live.