Let’s talk about something fun—funeral cover!
Okay, fine. It’s not exactly a laugh riot, but neither is realizing after a loved one passes that you’re now responsible for arranging (and funding) a funeral with the urgency of a Black Friday sale.
I learned this the hard way when my great-aunt passed unexpectedly. One minute, we were reminiscing about her legendary potato salad at family gatherings. The next, we were scrambling to figure out how to give her the dignified send-off she deserved—without bankrupting the entire family.
That’s when I discovered Metropolitan’s funeral cover. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer.
Look, no one wants to think about death. But pretending it won’t happen is like ignoring a "Check Engine" light—sooner or later, things get messy.
The average funeral in South Africa can set you back R30,000 to R80,000. And that’s before flowers, transport, and the post-funeral snacks (because grief makes people hungry).
Without cover, you’re either draining savings, taking loans, or—worst-case scenario—passing around a collection tin at the service. (Awkward.)
When my great-aunt passed, my family spent more time arguing about costs than actually mourning her. Funeral cover removes that burden so you can focus on what matters—honoring your loved one.
Some insurers make claims feel like solving a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. Metropolitan? Straightforward. Quick payouts. Less red tape. More peace of mind.
Metropolitan’s funeral policies typically include:
Funeral services (casket, venue, etc.)
Transport (hearse, family vehicles)
Cash payouts for additional expenses
Groceries or airtime (because yes, even in grief, life goes on)
Yourself (obviously)
Spouse/partner (romantic, right?)
Children (because kids are expensive, alive or not)
Extended family (parents, in-laws, that one cousin who always brings drama)
Premiums start as low as R50/month—basically the price of two fancy coffees. For that, you get coverage ranging from R10,000 to R100,000, depending on your plan.
(Pro tip: Don’t cheap out. You don’t want to realize too late that your "budget" funeral cover won’t even cover the coffin.)
After my great-aunt’s funeral fiasco, I decided to get my own policy. Here’s how it went:
I expected a mountain of forms. Instead, I applied online in 10 minutes—while binge-watching Stranger Things. No medical exams. No interrogation about my lifestyle (though if "stress-eating Oreos" was a risk factor, I’d be in trouble).
When my grandfather passed last year, I braced for a bureaucratic nightmare. Instead, Metropolitan processed the claim in 48 hours. The money hit our account before we’d even picked out his suit for the viewing.
(Funeral director: "So, navy or charcoal?"
Me, distracted by my phone: "Uh, whichever. Also, the insurance just paid out."
Funeral director: blinks "That was fast.")
Some insurers nickel-and-dime you with exclusions ("Tragically mauled by a llama? Sorry, not covered."). Metropolitan’s terms were clear—no gotchas.
Funeral cover is like sunscreen—you don’t realize you need it until you’re already burned. Don’t wait for a crisis.
R10,000 sounds like a lot until you see funeral invoices. Cover at least R30,000–R50,000 to avoid topping up out of pocket.
Changed your marital status? Had a kid? Update your policy. Otherwise, your ex might get the payout (awkward).
Yes, funeral cover is grim to think about. But not having it? Even grimmer. Metropolitan makes it affordable, simple, and—dare I say—sensible.
So, if you’ve been putting this off, ask yourself: Would my family be stuck with a financial nightmare if I died tomorrow? If the answer’s yes, maybe it’s time to adult properly.
(And if you’re still on the fence, just remember: Your future self will thank you. Your ghost might even haunt you in gratitude.)
Q: Can I get cover if I’m older/not perfectly healthy?
A: Yes! Metropolitan offers options for seniors and those with pre-existing conditions (though premiums might adjust).
Q: What if I can’t afford premiums one month?
A: Some policies have a grace period. But try to keep up—lapsed cover = no payout.
Q: Is cremation covered?
A: Yep. Traditional burial, cremation, even eco-friendly options—just specify in your plan.
Q: Can I cancel if I change my mind?
A: Sure, but then you’re back to square one. Better to adjust coverage than cancel entirely.
Got a funeral cover horror story? A Metropolitan experience (good or bad)? Drop it in the comments—let’s commiserate (or celebrate) together.
And if you’re still uncovered? Don’t wait. Future you (and your grieving family) will be so relieved.