Funeral insurance in the Netherlands
Funeral insurance (uitvaartverzekering) in the Netherlands is an insurance designed to cover the costs associated with a cremation or funeral. In the Netherlands funerals can be expensive and having an insurance policy helps to relieve financial burdens for your family members or loved ones.
We explore in this section
What types of Uitvaartverzekering are there?
Capital insurance (kapitaalverzekering)
- This policy pays out a fixed sum of money upon the policyholder's death. The amount can be used by your family to arrange the funeral as they see fit.
- The advantage is flexibility—beneficiaries can choose how to spend the money.
- If the costs are lower than expected, the remaining money goes to your family.
In-kind insurance (naturaverzekering)
- This policy covers specific services and products related to the funeral, such as a coffin, flowers, funeral director services, and ceremony arrangements.
- The insurer works with preferred suppliers and organizes the funeral in collaboration with the family.
- It ensures that all major aspects of the funeral are arranged, but there is less flexibility in choosing certain details or providers.
Combination Insurance (Combinatieverzekering)
- This combines aspects of both capital and in-kind insurance.
- Part of the payout comes in the form of services and products, while a portion is provided as a cash payout, giving families both coverage and flexibility.
Why should you get a funeral insurance?
To cover funeral costs
A funeral in the Netherlands can cost between €5,000 and €10,000, depending on the type of service and personal choices. Without insurance, the financial responsibility may fall on family members.
To relieve burden
The insurance removes financial and logistical stress from loved ones during a difficult time.
Tailored policies
Many insurers offer customizable policies, check recommend insurers, allowing you to choose specific services or a payout amount that suits your wishes.
Things to check before taking a policy
Age limits
Some insurers have age restrictions, meaning older individuals may face higher premiums or may be ineligible for new policies.
Exclusions
As with any insurance policy, it’s essential to check for any exclusions or limitations. Some policies may not cover deaths that occur within the first year or in certain circumstances.
Customize your policy
Policies can often be customized to reflect your specific wishes for your funeral, whether it’s related to location, burial vs. cremation, or special requests.
What does it cost?
Premiums for funeral insurance vary based on your age, health and coverage level. An average funeral in the Netherlands costs 9000 euro. The younger the person is when they start the policy, the lower the premiums typically are.
Premiums can be paid either as a lump sum, monthly, or annually (-5%), and some policies allow you to stop paying premiums after a certain age, even though the coverage remains in effect.
FAQ about Funeral insurance
What is the average cost of a funeral in the Netherlands?
The average cost of a funeral in the Netherlands can vary depending on factors like location, chosen services, and whether you opt for a burial or cremation. The average funeral in the Netherlands is 9000 euro.
Can I change my funeral insurance policy?
Yes, you can often change your funeral insurance policy. However, the specific terms and conditions for changes may vary depending on your insurer.
Is funeral insurance mandatory in the Netherlands?
A funeral insurance is not mandatory in the Netherlands. It is a personal choice to protect your loved ones from financial stress.
Can I take out funeral insurance for my children?
Yes, you can take out funeral insurance for your children. However, the terms and conditions may differ from adult policies.
What is covered by funeral insurance?
The specific coverage of your funeral insurance will depend on the type of policy you choose. However, most policies include costs related to:
- Coffin or urn
- Burial or cremation services
- Transportation of the deceased
- Funeral director fees
- Cemetery or crematorium fees
Why should I consider funeral insurance?
Funeral insurance can provide financial security for your loved ones, ensuring they don't have to bear the burden of high funeral costs. In the Netherlands the prices are high for a funeral, avarage is 9000 euro. It can also give you peace of mind knowing that your funeral wishes will be carried out.
Recommended insurers
a.s.r.
ASR Nederland is a major Dutch insurance group based in Utrecht which is rated very highly for their funeral insurance.