Summer break is in full swing, and for many working parents—especially those in the dental hygiene field—it brings a familiar shift. School’s out, and the usual support systems kick in: childcare programs, summer camps, and community resources that help families adjust. While the juggle is real, it’s manageable—because it’s expected.
That’s the thing about summer: it doesn’t surprise us. It’s there every year, another obstacle for working parents to navigate. They can rearrange schedules, budget for childcare, and plan ahead for the changes it brings. Financial preparedness issues are widespread—62% feel unprepared after a loved one’s death (Western & Southern Financial Group).
But not every life event gives us that kind of notice.
When it comes to the truly life-changing moments—like the loss of a loved one—there’s no warning, no time to adjust. The emotional toll is already overwhelming, and without a plan in place, the financial impact can make things even harder.
So let’s talk about the cost:
A 2023 annual report “The Cost of Dying” constructed by Empathy, a platform designed to help grieving families navigate loss, estimated that the average out-of-pocket costs reached $12,616 for funeral, legal, and administrative expenses. The same report revealed that over 500 hours are dedicated to resolving loved one’s finances, legal processes and so forth, and that typically following a death, the financial matters took on average 12.5 months to resolve. (“The Grief Tax”).
The $12,000 accounts for cost alone, and not the possible medical fees, loss of wages or legal fees that may come with the death of a working parent.
That’s why life insurance matters.
It’s not just a policy—it’s the safety net that steps in when life throws the unexpected. It’s how you protect your family when you can no longer. That $25/month policy can translate to $500K of protection, or more depending on what you are eligible for.
The truth is, none of us can control when tragedy strikes—but we can control how prepared we are for it. Life insurance isn’t just about numbers; it’s about giving your loved ones the time and space to grieve without the added weight of financial stress. As a dental hygienist, you dedicate your days to caring for others—make sure your family is cared for, too. Whether it’s covering funeral costs, replacing lost income, or simply providing peace of mind, life insurance is one decision today that protects everything that matters tomorrow.
Want to learn more? We have a resource through RDH Insurance that breaks down your insurance and financial checklist by life stage.
Want to explore life insurance? Reach out to Heidi today.
CITATIONS:
Empathy. The Grief Tax: The Financial, Logistical, and Emotional Impact of Loss in America. Empathy, Apr. 2025, https://www.empathy.com/thegrieftax.
Western & Southern Financial Group. “Over Half of Americans Stumble Financially After Losing a Loved One. Are You Prepared?” Kiplinger, 17 May 2025, https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/estate-planning/many-stumble-financially-after-losing-a-loved-one-are-you-prepared.
