Funerals can be expensive, and when the time comes, emotions are high — the last thing we want is to leave behind unexpected financial stress. None of us like to think about it, but planning for the inevitable is one of the most thoughtful things we can do for our loved ones.

That’s why more Australians are turning to funeral bonds as a simple, effective way to prepare for the future.

What Is a Funeral Bond?

Sureplan Gold funeral bond is a dedicated savings and investment product, created specifically to cover your funeral expenses. You can contribute a lump sum or small regular payments, and the money is securely held until your death — at which point it’s paid out to help cover the cost of your funeral.

The way Sureplan Gold differs from funeral insurance you may have seen advertised on daytime television is that a Sureplan Gold funeral bond gives you flexibility — you can choose how much and how often you want to contribute, cease contributing at any time, and you won’t lose the money you have already contributed.

Sureplan Gold can be used for prepaid funerals as well. Talk to your local funeral director about the option to assign your funeral bond for your prepaid funeral.

You have an initial 30 day ‘cooling off’ period, after which point the contributed funds cannot be withdrawn. All your contributions, plus any additional calculated bonuses, will be paid out to your appointed nominee upon your death to cover your funeral expenses.

With Sureplan Gold, your money is invested conservatively, with the potential to grow over time with annual bonuses. There are no entry or exit fees, and if the funeral costs less than the total value of the bond, any remaining amount is passed on to your estate.

Financial Benefits Beyond the Funeral

One of the lesser-known advantages of funeral bonds is how they’re treated under government rules. Under Centrelink and Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) guidelines, up to $15,750 (as at 1 July 2025) invested in a funeral bond may be treated as an Exempt Asset. That means it’s not counted in your Age Pension or Aged Care means test.

This can be a game-changer. For some people, a funeral bond can help:

•             Increase their pension

•             Qualify for a Pensioner Concession Card

•             Reduce aged care costs

In other words, you’re not just planning ahead for your funeral — you may also be improving your financial position right now.

Sureplan Gold: A Trusted Option for Peace of Mind

Since 1935, Sureplan has helped thousands of Australians prepare for the future. The Sureplan Gold funeral bond is designed to be low-cost, flexible, and easy to manage. You can contribute at your own pace, from as little as $50 a month, or with a single lump sum — whatever works best for you.

And when the time comes, Sureplan acts quickly: we guarantee the funeral benefit is paid within one working day of receiving independent confirmation of death. No confusing claim forms for your family. No delays. Just support when it’s needed most.

A Simple Step Toward Peace of Mind

No one likes talking about funerals — but the people who do take that step often say the same thing afterward: “I feel relieved.”

A funeral bond gives you peace of mind now, and practical help for your family later. It’s a simple way to take control, reduce stress for your loved ones, and make sure your funeral is funded — without dipping into savings or leaving others to cover the cost.

If you’re thinking about planning ahead, Sureplan Gold funeral bond is a thoughtful and secure place to start.

*Please seek professional financial advice for your individual situation.

To learn more about how Sureplan Gold can work for you:

Call us on 1800 817 105