Which final expense insurance company is the best? It’s one of the most-asked questions I get — and the honest answer is: it depends on you.
I’m Michael Cubell, an independent insurance agent with Triangle Life & Health. I’m not captive to any single carrier, which means I can give you an honest comparison. Here’s my breakdown of the top final expense companies in 2026.
Top Final Expense Insurance Companies — My Rankings
🥇 Mutual of Omaha
Best for: Most applicants
- A+ rated (AM Best)
- Extremely competitive rates across all ages
- Simplified issue with generous underwriting
- Quick approval process
- Living Benefit rider (access funds if terminally ill)
Mutual of Omaha is my go-to carrier for most clients. They consistently offer the lowest rates and accept a wide range of health conditions.
🥈 Transamerica
Best for: Clients with health conditions
- A rated (AM Best)
- Very lenient underwriting for diabetes, heart conditions, and COPD
- Competitive rates, especially for older applicants (70+)
- Good guaranteed issue option
🥉 Aetna / CVS Health
Best for: Value seekers
- Strong financial backing (CVS Health)
- Competitive simplified issue rates
- Good option for non-smokers in good health
Other Notable Companies
Foresters Financial — Unique member benefits, community-focused. Good rates for certain age brackets.
American Amicable — Specializes in graded and guaranteed issue. Good option for harder-to-insure clients.
Companies to Be Cautious About
Globe Life (Torchmark)
You’ve probably seen the TV commercials and mailers. Globe Life is a legitimate company, but:
- Rates are often 30-50% higher than what you’d get through an independent agent
- The “$1/day” marketing is misleading — that covers very little
- Limited carrier options (they only sell their own products)
Colonial Penn
Famous for the “three questions” guarantee. The reality:
- Guaranteed issue only (no simplified issue option) — which means higher premiums
- Coverage is sold in “units” that can be confusing
- If you’re in reasonable health, you’ll pay significantly more with Colonial Penn than with other carriers
AARP / New York Life
AARP is a trusted brand, but they’re not an insurance company — they license their name to New York Life. The coverage is solid, but:
- Rates are typically higher than what an independent agent can find
- You’re only seeing one company’s rates
- You can often get the same or better coverage for less elsewhere
Why the “Best” Company Depends on YOU
Here’s the thing: every carrier has different sweet spots. Mutual of Omaha might be cheapest for a healthy 62-year-old non-smoker, but Transamerica might beat them for a 70-year-old diabetic. The only way to know who offers YOUR best rate is to compare multiple carriers side by side.
That’s exactly what I do as an independent agent. One phone call, multiple carrier quotes, and I show you the best option for your specific age, health, and budget.
Get Your Free Comparison
Stop guessing which company is best. Let me show you. Call (919) 944-8443 or schedule a free consultation and I’ll compare the top carriers for your situation — no obligation.