Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance in Minnesota
Updated November 14, 2026
The quick answer for Minnesota
Yes, Minnesotans can get guaranteed issue life insurance with no health questions and no exam, even after being declined. It costs the most per dollar, so it belongs at the end of your search, not the start.
Guaranteed issue is small whole life coverage, usually $2,000 to $25,000, to take care of a funeral and final bills. The price never changes.
One company’s “no” often isn’t everyone’s. A carrier that declines you may be stricter than another that would approve you with a few simple questions. That’s why it pays to compare level (simplified issue) and graded/modified plans first.
What a funeral costs in Minnesota
| Funeral with viewing and burial (Minnesota region) | about $8,755 |
|---|---|
| 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.
Funerals in Minnesota’s region run a little above the national average. One Minnesota-specific tip: ask the cemetery whether a winter burial costs extra or waits until spring.
How much coverage to buy
For a traditional burial, $10,000 to $15,000 is a common target once the cemetery is added. Cremation usually takes $5,000 to $8,000. Our cremation vs. burial guide compares the two.
Pick a payment you can keep every month without stress. A policy only helps if it stays active.
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 in 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 Minnesota
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 Minnesota
- Shop around. That’s the state’s own advice: get impartial help and compare products before you buy.
- Looking for a relative’s old policy? The state doesn’t keep policy records, but the Department of Commerce can help you find the right insurer.
- Free help by phone. Commerce’s Consumer Services Center answers at 651-539-1600, or 800-657-3602 outside the Twin Cities.
- 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 solid backup in Minnesota, but most people should try a level (simplified issue) or graded/modified plan first. Funerals here run a little above average, so plan on $10,000 to $15,000 for a traditional burial and less for cremation.
General education only. This page is not an offer to sell insurance in Minnesota. 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.