Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance in Maryland
Updated November 14, 2026
The quick answer for Maryland
Yes, Marylanders can get guaranteed issue life insurance with no health questions and no exam, even after a decline. It’s the priciest way to buy coverage, so save it for when the cheaper options say no.
Guaranteed issue is small whole life coverage, usually $2,000 to $25,000, to cover a funeral and final bills. Your price never goes up.
A decline from one big insurer doesn’t mean every door is closed. Final expense companies ask just a few yes/no questions, and many people with health conditions still pass. That’s why it pays to check level (simplified issue) and graded/modified plans first.
What a funeral costs in Maryland
| Funeral with viewing and burial (Maryland region) | about $8,023 |
|---|---|
| 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.
The regional average is a bit under the national number, but prices around Baltimore and the D.C. suburbs can run higher. Cemetery costs near the cities are often the biggest surprise.
How much coverage to buy
For a traditional burial, $10,000 to $15,000 works for most families, more in higher-cost counties. Cremation usually takes $5,000 to $8,000. Our cremation vs. burial guide breaks it down.
Pick a payment you can keep up comfortably. That matters more than the size of the policy.
How it works, in plain English
You apply and you’re in. There’s a waiting period of about two years. If you pass away from an illness during that time, your family gets your payments back plus interest. After that, the full amount. Accidents are usually covered from day one.
| 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 |
For more, see our guaranteed issue guide and level vs. graded comparison.
Companies to know in Maryland
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 Maryland
- Don’t cash in an old policy too fast. Maryland’s insurance office suggests thinking through the tax side first. An older policy past its waiting period is often worth keeping.
- Check who you’re talking to. The Maryland Insurance Administration has a free company and agent search on its website.
- Free help by phone. Questions about a policy? The Administration answers at 1-800-492-6116.
- 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 reliable backup in Maryland, but most people should try a level (simplified issue) or graded/modified plan first. Plan on $10,000 to $15,000 for a traditional funeral, a bit more near the cities, and less for cremation.
General education only. This page is not an offer to sell insurance in Maryland. 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.