The GoFundMe Culture: Why Life Insurance is a Smarter Plan

Because life can be unpredictable, crowdfunding has become a popular alternative for covering expenses after losing a loved one. Unfortunately, this is a reality for many families without life insurance.

Many individuals with little or no life insurance leave their loved ones in a difficult position, forcing them to turn to crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe. While community fundraising may seem like a reliable solution, the reality tells a different story.

The High Cost of Funerals

According to the National Funeral Directors Association’s 2021 Cremation and Burial Report, the average cost of a funeral is approximately $7,900, but depending on burial choices, it can go as high as $10,000.

Beyond the funeral itself, families are often left dealing with additional financial burdens, including:

• Medical bills
• Accident costs and health plan deductibles
• Mortgages and car loans
• Outstanding debts

These expenses can quickly add up, making it difficult for a grieving family to stay financially stable. Yet, despite these costs, a 2020 LIMRA survey found that less than 55% of adult Americans have some form of life insurance.

Crowdfunding’s Limitations

While GoFundMe and other crowdfunding platforms provide a way for people to request financial support, the statistics reveal a harsh reality.

Medical expenses are the number one reason for fundraising campaigns, raising over $3 billion annually, while memorial and funeral expenses rank fifth, generating more than $250 million per year.

These numbers may seem promising, but they do not tell the full story. According to Fast Company, less than 17% of GoFundMe campaigns for emergency costs and healthcare reach their goal.

Why Leave It to Chance?

With numbers like these it raises an important question: why take the risk of relying on crowdfunding to cover your family’s expenses when life insurance provides a guaranteed solution?

A life insurance policy ensures that:

• Your beneficiaries receive the full payout without the uncertainty of crowdfunding.
• The funds are available quickly, avoiding delays during an already stressful time.
• The benefit is tax-free, unlike funds received through a crowdfunding platform.
• Additional policy features may be available, such as riders, dividends, living benefits, and cash value accumulation.

Purchasing a life insurance policy is not just a financial decision—it is an act of care and responsibility for those who depend on you.

The Risks of Crowdfunding

Many people assume that if something happens, a GoFundMe campaign will be enough to cover their family’s expenses. However, relying on crowdfunding comes with several risks that are often overlooked.

• Privacy Concerns – Posting personal and financial struggles on a public platform can create security risks and expose sensitive information.
• Emotional Burden – To attract donations, families often feel pressured to share personal and heartbreaking stories, which can be emotionally draining, especially while mourning.
• No Guarantee of Success – Even if a story is compelling, there is no assurance that a campaign will receive enough attention to be fully funded.
• Slow Funding Process – Unlike life insurance benefits, which are typically paid out quickly, crowdfunding campaigns take time to gain traction, if they succeed at all.
• Platform Fees and Charges – Many crowdfunding sites take a percentage of the total amount raised, reducing the funds that actually reach the family.
• Tax Implications – Unlike life insurance proceeds, crowdfunding donations may be subject to taxes, and in some cases, they may not be tax-deductible.

Invest in Your Family’s Future

A solid life insurance policy provides more than just funeral coverage. It can:

• Offer financial security for your loved ones
• Help pay off outstanding debts and everyday expenses
• Contribute to a child’s college education
• Serve as a foundation for generational wealth

Crowdfunding, on the other hand, is often limited to covering immediate expenses, leaving little room for long-term financial planning.

Make the Smart Choice Today

While GoFundMe and other crowdfunding platforms may provide temporary relief, they are not a reliable financial safety net. With life insurance, you can ensure that your family is protected no matter what happens.

A well-structured life insurance policy allows you to plan for the future with confidence, knowing that your loved ones will have the financial resources they need when they need them most.

Proactive planning today can make all the difference in securing your family’s financial well-being during difficult times. Instead of leaving things to chance, take control of your financial future by exploring life insurance options that fit your budget and long-term needs.

For guidance on choosing the right life insurance plan, schedule a free, personalized consultation with Page Insurance today.