Provider reviews
Old Mutual Funeral Cover
By Lindiwe Khumalo · 6 min read · Updated 24 June 2026
- Underwriter
- Old Mutual Life Assurance Company
- Typical cover
- R5,000 to R100,000 per life
- Typical premium range
- From around R45 to R550+ a month
- Waiting period
- Usually 6 months for natural death, none for accidental
- Extended family
- Available on most plans up to an age limit
Old Mutual funeral cover is a funeral policy from one of South Africa's oldest insurers, paying a cash lump sum of roughly R5,000 to R100,000 per life, with a waiting period of about 6 months for natural death, none for accidental death, and extended-family options on most plans. Its plans pay a cash lump sum so your family can pay for a funeral without dipping into savings.
Old Mutual suits people who want an established brand with branches and advisers across the country. Figures below are indicative - confirm current premiums and terms with Old Mutual.
What Old Mutual offers
Old Mutual funeral plans pay a cash benefit on the death of a covered person, with options to add a spouse, children and extended family. Some plans include extras such as a memorial benefit or grocery benefit. As a large insurer it also offers life cover, so you can combine products if you wish.
How Old Mutual funeral cover compares
Here is how Old Mutual funeral cover stacks up on the structural features that matter, stated in general, indicative terms.
| Feature | Old Mutual |
|---|---|
| Underwriter | Old Mutual Life Assurance Company |
| Typical cover range | About R5,000 to R100,000 per life |
| Natural-death waiting period | About 6 months |
| Accidental death cover | Covered from day one |
| Maximum entry age | Available on most plans up to an age limit |
| Extended family option | Yes, on most plans |
| Cash-back / payback | Varies by plan - confirm |
| Payout time | Usually within 24 to 48 hours for a valid claim |
Figures are indicative - confirm current terms with the provider before you sign.
Indicative cover amounts and premiums
Cover usually ranges from about R5,000 to R100,000 per life. Premiums scale with age, cover amount and the number of people insured. A rough range is from around R45 a month for basic single cover to over R550 for a comprehensive family plan. These are guides only, not quotes.
Waiting periods
Old Mutual generally applies a waiting period of about six months for natural death and no waiting period for accidental death. If a policy lapses for non-payment, a fresh waiting period may apply on reinstatement. Read the policy document so you know precisely when each life is covered.
Who it suits
Old Mutual suits people who want a long-standing insurer with a wide adviser and branch network, and who may want to add life or savings products later. The brand familiarity is reassuring for many families.
Pros and cons
Pros: large, established insurer; extended family and added benefits; widely available; option to bundle with other cover.
Cons: premiums can rise with age; some plans are pricier than no-frills competitors; honest disclosure is essential to avoid claim disputes.
How to claim and get a quote
To claim, notify Old Mutual promptly and submit the death certificate, IDs, policy number and bank details. For a quote, contact Old Mutual directly through its website, a branch or an adviser. We are an information site and do not sell cover - compare premium, cover, waiting period and any added benefits before choosing.
Frequently asked questions
How much is Old Mutual funeral cover per month?
It depends on your age and chosen cover. Basic single cover can start around R45 a month, while family plans cost more. Get a quote from Old Mutual for exact pricing.
What is the Old Mutual funeral cover waiting period?
Usually about six months for natural death and none for accidental death. Confirm the exact period in your policy schedule.
Can I add extended family to Old Mutual cover?
Yes, most Old Mutual funeral plans allow extended family up to a set age, at an additional premium.
Is there an age limit for Old Mutual funeral cover?
Plans have entry age limits that vary by product, and older entrants pay higher premiums. Ask about the limit for the specific plan you want.
How do I claim from Old Mutual?
Contact Old Mutual, then submit the death certificate, the deceased's ID, the policy number and the claimant's bank details. Valid claims are usually paid within a few working days.
Is Old Mutual funeral cover worth it?
It is a solid choice if you value an established insurer and the option to add other products. Compare premiums against simpler plans if you only need basic cover.
