Provider reviews
Sanlam Funeral Cover
By Lindiwe Khumalo · 6 min read · Updated 24 June 2026
- Underwriter
- Sanlam Life Insurance
- Typical cover
- R5,000 to R100,000 per life
- Typical premium range
- From around R40 to R500+ a month
- Waiting period
- Usually 6 months for natural death, none for accidental
- Cash-back
- Available on some plans after a set premium-paying period
Sanlam funeral cover is a funeral policy from one of South Africa's largest 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 cash-back available on some plans. Its funeral cover pays a cash lump sum to your family when a covered person dies.
Sanlam is a good fit if you want a big, regulated insurer behind your policy. The numbers below are indicative ranges to help you plan - confirm current premiums and terms with Sanlam before you sign.
What Sanlam offers
Sanlam funeral plans pay a tax-free cash amount on death so your family can cover the funeral and immediate costs. You can usually cover yourself, a partner, children and extended family. Sanlam also underwrites several policies branded by retailers and banks, so you may already hold a Sanlam-backed product without realising it.
How Sanlam funeral cover compares
Here is how Sanlam funeral cover stacks up on the structural features that matter, stated in general, indicative terms.
| Feature | Sanlam |
|---|---|
| Underwriter | Sanlam Life Insurance |
| 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 | Up to a stated age, varies by plan |
| Extended family option | Available on some plans |
| Cash-back / payback | Cash-back on some plans after a set period |
| 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 typically ranges from about R5,000 up to R100,000 per life. Premiums depend on age, cover size and how many lives you add. As a rough guide, expect anything from around R40 a month for basic single cover to R500 or more for a larger family plan. These are illustrative, not quotes.
Waiting periods
Sanlam generally applies a waiting period of about six months for natural death, with accidental death covered immediately. Some plans offer cash-back if you pay premiums for an unbroken period and do not claim. Always read the policy schedule for the exact waiting period and any cash-back rules.
Who it suits
Sanlam suits people who want a large, well-known insurer and the option to bundle funeral cover with other Sanlam products. If you value brand size and a broad branch and adviser network, it is a sensible shortlist candidate.
Pros and cons
Pros: major regulated insurer; extended family options; cash-back on some plans; widely available through advisers and branches.
Cons: premiums can increase over time; you must disclose health and age honestly to avoid claim disputes; cheaper cover exists elsewhere for very basic needs.
How to claim and get a quote
To claim, notify Sanlam quickly and submit the death certificate, IDs, policy number and the claimant's bank details. For a quote, go straight to Sanlam through its website, a branch or an accredited adviser. We do not sell or broker policies - compare premium, cover, waiting period and cash-back before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
How much is Sanlam funeral cover?
It depends on age and cover amount. Basic single cover can start around R40 a month, with larger family plans costing R500 or more. Get a personal quote from Sanlam for accurate pricing.
Does Sanlam funeral cover have a waiting period?
Yes, usually about six months for natural death and none for accidental death. Check your policy schedule for the exact period.
Does Sanlam offer cash-back funeral cover?
Some Sanlam plans return a portion of premiums or pay a cash-back amount if you pay for a set period without claiming. Ask which plan includes this.
Can I cover my parents with Sanlam?
Yes, most Sanlam funeral plans allow extended family such as parents, usually up to an age limit and at an added premium.
How do I claim from Sanlam?
Contact Sanlam, then submit the death certificate, the deceased's ID, the policy number and the claimant's bank details. Claims are typically paid quickly once documents are verified.
Is Sanlam funeral cover good value?
It is solid if you want a large insurer and possible cash-back. For very basic needs you may find cheaper cover, so compare a few options first.
