Trustage Burial Insurance worth it? Everything to know before you buy (Updated 2026)
🕒 10-minute read
By Phillip Chin · Updated May 2026 · Licensed independent broker
TruStage is one of the most-searched burial insurance brands in America — and for good reason. They are backed by CUNA Mutual Group, have an A+ AM Best rating, and partner with over 3,500 credit unions to make their products feel familiar and trustworthy.
But familiarity is not the same as value. TruStage’s final expense product caps at $20,000, carries a mandatory two-year waiting period, and consistently prices higher than independent burial insurance carriers for the same coverage amount. For seniors in average or good health, that gap is meaningful.
This article breaks down exactly what TruStage offers, what it costs compared to competitors, where it falls short, and who it actually makes sense for.
What TruStage Actually Is
TruStage is not a standalone insurance company — it is a brand owned by CUNA Mutual Group, based in Madison, Wisconsin. The actual insurance is underwritten by CMFG Life Insurance Company, which holds an A+ rating from AM Best. That is excellent financial strength and means claims get paid.
Their distribution model is unusual. Rather than selling direct to consumers or through independent agents, TruStage reaches customers primarily through credit union partnerships — over 3,500 of them across the U.S. If you are a credit union member, you have probably seen TruStage mailers or offers in your online banking portal.
The concern is not financial stability — it is product design and pricing. TruStage’s final expense product is straightforward, but the coverage cap ($20,000), the two-year waiting period on guaranteed acceptance, and premium rates that run higher than comparable independent carriers are worth understanding before you buy.
The Three Policy Types, Explained Plainly
1. Term Life Insurance
Available for ages 18–69. Coverage from $5,000 to $300,000. This is a standard term product — coverage for a set period, not lifetime protection. Premiums increase over time and the policy eventually expires. Not the right product for most seniors looking to cover final expenses.
2. Whole Life Insurance
Available for ages 18–85. Coverage varies by age group. Premiums are level for life, the policy builds cash value, and it never expires. This is the stronger product for seniors — but coverage limits shrink significantly at older ages, and rates tend to run higher than independent carriers.
3. Guaranteed Acceptance Final Expense Insurance
Available for ages 45–80. Coverage from $2,000 to $20,000. No health questions whatsoever — everyone in the age range is accepted. The catch: a mandatory two-year waiting period for non-accidental death, and a $20,000 coverage cap that is lower than most competitors.
| Product | Age Range | Max Coverage | Medical Exam | Waiting Period | Premiums |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Term Life | 18–69 | $300,000 | No | None | ↑ Increases |
| Whole Life | 18–85 | $25,000 | No | None | Level for life |
| Guaranteed Acceptance | 45–80 | $20,000 | No | 2 years | Level for life |
What TruStage Burial Insurance Costs by Age
Rates below are approximate monthly premiums for TruStage’s whole life and guaranteed acceptance final expense products. Rates vary by state.
Whole Life — $10,000 coverage
| Age | Male | Female | vs. Best Independent Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | ~$32/mo | ~$25/mo | ~20% higher |
| 60 | ~$49/mo | ~$38/mo | ~25% higher |
| 70 | ~$82/mo | ~$65/mo | ~30% higher |
| 75 | ~$110/mo | ~$87/mo | ~35% higher |
| 80 | ~$148/mo | ~$119/mo | ~35% higher |
* Rates are approximate. “Best independent rate” refers to lowest available from AFLAC, Aetna, or Mutual of Omaha at the same age and health profile.
Monthly rate comparison — 70-year-old woman, $10,000 coverage (non-smoker)
* Rates are approximate. Call (866) 255-5775 for your exact quote.
The Fine Print That Matters
Honest Pros and Cons
- Guaranteed approval — anyone 45–80 qualifies, no health questions
- No medical exam required on any product
- Premiums never increase on whole life and final expense plans
- A+ AM Best rating — financially strong, claims get paid
- 4.7/5 Trustpilot — strong customer satisfaction record
- Cash value builds on whole life policies over time
- 2-year waiting period on guaranteed acceptance — family gets premiums back, not the benefit
- $20,000 cap — lower than most competitors ($25K–$40K)
- Rates 20–35% higher than top independent carriers
- Not ideal for healthy applicants — better value available elsewhere
- Credit union only — no independent agent comparison shopping
How TruStage Compares to Top Carriers
| Company | Max Coverage | Age Range | Waiting Period | Pricing vs. TruStage | AM Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TruStage / CMFG | $20,000 | 45–80 | 2 years | — | A+ |
| AFLAC Best Value | $35,000 | 45–80 | None | 20–35% lower | A+ |
| Aetna Best for Health Issues | $40,000 | 50–89 | None | 20–30% lower | A |
| Mutual of Omaha | $25,000 | 45–85 | None | 15–25% lower | A+ |
| Transamerica | $50,000 | 0–85 | None | 15–25% lower | A |
Our Honest Take: Is TruStage Worth It?
For most seniors in average or good health — no.
TruStage’s guaranteed acceptance product charges 20–35% more than top-rated independent carriers for the same coverage amount, caps at $20,000 (lower than competitors), and comes with a two-year waiting period. If you can answer basic health questions without major issues, a level-benefit policy from AFLAC, Aetna, or Mutual of Omaha will give you more coverage for less money with no waiting period.
Who TruStage actually makes sense for:
- People who have been declined by multiple carriers and need guaranteed acceptance
- Credit union members who want the convenience of bundling through their existing institution
- Applicants who only need $10,000–$15,000 in coverage and value the TruStage brand recognition
Who should look elsewhere: anyone in average health, anyone who wants more than $20,000 in coverage, and anyone willing to spend 15 minutes comparing quotes. The math almost always favors an independent carrier.
Common Questions
Is TruStage the same as CUNA Mutual?
Yes. TruStage is a brand owned by CUNA Mutual Group. The actual insurance is underwritten by CMFG Life Insurance Company, which holds an A+ AM Best rating.
Do I need to be a credit union member to buy TruStage?
No. While TruStage partners with over 3,500 credit unions and reaches most customers through them, non-members can also apply for their insurance products directly.
What happens during TruStage’s 2-year waiting period?
If you pass away from a natural (non-accidental) cause within the first 24 months of a guaranteed acceptance policy, your beneficiary receives your paid premiums back plus interest — not the full death benefit. After 24 months, the full benefit pays. Accidental death is covered from day one at the full amount.
How does TruStage compare to Mutual of Omaha for burial insurance?
Mutual of Omaha typically offers lower rates, higher coverage limits ($25,000 vs. $20,000), and no waiting period for qualifying applicants. For most seniors in average health, Mutual of Omaha is the stronger value. TruStage’s advantage is guaranteed acceptance if you cannot pass health questions.
Can I get TruStage insurance if I have diabetes or heart disease?
Yes — TruStage’s guaranteed acceptance product does not ask any health questions, so any condition qualifies. However, you will pay more and face the 2-year wait. If your condition is controlled, carriers like Aetna or AFLAC may offer immediate coverage at a lower rate. It’s worth comparing.
Does TruStage whole life insurance build cash value?
Yes. TruStage’s whole life policies accumulate cash value over time, which you can borrow against. For burial insurance amounts, the cash value is modest — but it is there.
What is TruStage’s BBB and Trustpilot rating?
TruStage has a B rating with the Better Business Bureau (accredited for 10+ years) and a 4.7 out of 5 on Trustpilot — which is a strong customer satisfaction score. The financial strength rating from AM Best is A+.
Is TruStage burial insurance worth it for seniors over 75?
It depends on your health. If you have serious health conditions that make you uninsurable elsewhere, TruStage’s guaranteed acceptance is a legitimate option despite the higher price and 2-year wait. If you are in reasonable health at 75+, Aetna (covers up to age 89) or AFLAC will generally offer better pricing and no waiting period.
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