United American Final Expense Insurance Guide
An independent, educational guide to United American's final expense whole life products — plan types, underwriting, rates, and who they're best for.
AM Best Rating
A
Founded
1947
Age Range
45–85
Coverage Range
$1,000–$50,000
United American is one of my preferred carriers for final expense coverage — and has been for years. They offer competitive whole life products with straightforward underwriting, strong financial ratings, and a reliable claims process. What sets United American apart is their flexibility across a wide range of health profiles and their higher coverage ceiling compared to many competitors.
This is an independent educational guide. I am not employed by or affiliated with United American Insurance Company. As an independent broker, I represent multiple carriers and will recommend the option that best fits your specific situation.
Plan Types
United American offers final expense whole life coverage in two primary structures:
Simplified Issue Whole Life
The Simplified Issue Whole Life plan provides level benefit coverage from day one for applicants who qualify through the health questionnaire. This is the preferred option — premiums are fixed, coverage is permanent, and the full death benefit is available immediately upon approval. United American's simplified issue underwriting is competitive for a wide range of health profiles.
Graded Benefit Whole Life
For applicants with more complex health histories who don't qualify for the simplified issue plan, United American offers a Graded Benefit option. The graded period typically applies in the first two years, after which the full death benefit is in effect. This option ensures that applicants with more challenging health situations can still obtain meaningful coverage.
Underwriting Guidelines
United American uses a simplified issue application with health questions — no medical exam required. Their underwriting is known for flexibility across a range of health profiles:
Generally accepted
Many common health conditions are accepted at standard rates, including controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and stable heart conditions.
May result in graded benefit
Applicants with more complex health histories may qualify for the Graded Benefit plan rather than the Simplified Issue plan.
May result in declination
Some conditions may result in a declination. If that happens, I'll explore other options including guaranteed issue coverage from other carriers.
United American's underwriting guidelines can vary by state and are subject to change. The most accurate way to determine what you qualify for is to call me — I'll review your situation before you apply.
Honest Assessment
Strengths
- A AM Best rating — strong financial stability with a long track record
- Higher coverage ceiling ($50,000) than many final expense competitors
- Flexible underwriting accommodates a wide range of health profiles
- Competitive premiums across a broad age range
- Reliable claims-paying reputation
- Personally preferred and recommended by William Gray
Limitations
- Not as widely recognized by consumers as some national brands
- Coverage maximums and availability vary by state
- Graded benefit period applies for higher-risk applicants
Who Is United American Best For?
United American is an excellent fit for applicants who want a trusted, financially stable carrier with flexible underwriting and competitive rates. Their higher coverage ceiling makes them particularly well-suited for applicants who need more than the $25,000 maximum offered by many competitors.
I frequently recommend United American for clients who have been quoted high rates elsewhere due to health conditions — their underwriting flexibility often results in a more favorable offer than other carriers for the same applicant.
If you're comparing United American against Mutual of Omaha or Royal Arcanum, the right choice depends on your specific age, health, and coverage goals. That's exactly the comparison I'll run for you.
Also compare our other preferred carriers:
Want to Know If United American Is Right for You?
Call me directly and I'll compare United American's rates against our other preferred carriers based on your specific situation. I'll give you an honest recommendation — no pressure, no obligation.