Maryville, TN — August 17, 2026— Today, The Independent Funeral Group (TIFG) is unveiling a proprietary group healthcare insurance plan that will offer members exclusive access to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits at negotiated, discounted group rates.
This initiative supports TIFG’s longstanding mission to support family-owned funeral homes, their employees, and the local communities they serve. Just as they did when The Group was founded in 1995, TIFG leadership worked diligently to achieve this monumental goal, responding directly to member concerns over ever-rising costs.
“It’s important for us to stand together because there is strength in numbers,” says Daniel Ownby, funeral director and President of The Group’s board of directors. “TIFG is unique because we all run our respective businesses differently, but we can be cohesive by pooling our resources to provide more leverage for The Group as a whole.”
Health coverage will feature one of the largest national Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) networks that offers policyholders the freedom and flexibility to see any doctor or specialist without a referral, with lower costs for in-network care.
Dental and vision benefits will also offer a large nationwide PPO network with negotiated fees that significantly lower out-of-pocket expenses for in-network care.
“This isn’t a one-size-fits-all program,” adds Dr. Brad Kuchnicki, TIFG Executive Director and a licensed funeral director and embalmer. “But if we can save funeral homes real money on health insurance premiums and bring peace of mind to them, their employees and dependents, then that’s what we’ll work hard to do.”
Members are being provided with preliminary coverage proposals, which include three distinct plan options with varying premiums and deductibles. Final rates and benefit summary booklets will be released on October 21, with open enrollment following on November 2. Benefits will become effective on January 1, 2027.
“Last year at this time, The Group announced we were going nationwide,” explained Christi Moon Robbins, The Group’s Associate Director, LFD, Emb, & CCO. “We knew that meant preparing to better serve and support family-owned funeral homes in all 50 states. Today, we’re grateful that support now includes access to health insurance for our member firms nationwide.”
About The Independent Funeral Group
Since 1995, The Independent Funeral Group has worked to support family-owned and operated funeral homes, and now serves as a buying, education, and resource group, committed to preserving independent ownership and strengthening the profession through shared resources and collaboration. Founded by funeral practitioners, for funeral practitioners, The Group champions dignity, service, and community. To learn more about The Independent Funeral Group’s mission, membership criteria, and benefits, visit www.tifg.net, email info@tifg.net, or call (865) 977-0027.
