The unexpected passing of a loved one is a difficult and emotional time, and this can be further complicated by the many things that need to be considered and organised.

Processing the death of a family member means navigating legal matters, obtaining documentation, transporting the deceased and arranging the funeral itself – all of which can be costly, time-consuming, and confusing.

Families in a situation like this regularly find themselves burdened with unexpected expenses and administrative hurdles, adding stress to an already difficult time of grief.

How Old Mutual’s Funeral Support Service helps

Without professional assistance, it can be a huge struggle to manage these details, especially while coping with loss.

Old Mutual’s Funeral Support Service takes care of the entire process for its members. This includes assistance and advice on claims procedures, legal assistance regarding funeral procedures (such as obtaining a death certificate and arranging the removal of a body), working with authorities (locally and abroad, if the death occurs outside of South Africa), transportation logistics, referrals to pathologists and undertakers where needed, and even tombstones.

This level of support takes away a significant financial and emotional burden from families during their time of loss.

What the service does not provide

It’s important to know that Old Mutual will not reimburse members for processes arranged privately. Members must use Old Mutual's services to receive their full value (I don’t think we must refer to a benefit as no payment is made, it’s just a service). Some members may not be aware of this crucial point, which could lead to misunderstandings, unnecessary financial strain and frustration later in the process.

By ensuring that arrangements are handled through the correct channels, Old Mutual’s Funeral Support Service provides consistency, reliability, and certainty that the cost of a repatriation – be it local or international – will be covered by Old Mutual. This means that families do not have to worry about additional payments or unforeseen complications that could arise.

The service is available to the immediate family of the main member, i.e. spouse and dependent children, and is offered at no additional cost

Download our Funeral Support Service brochure to find out more.