People who lack life insurance cover are driving a boom in crowdfunding efforts to attract financial support after someone dies, life insurer Integrity claims.

It says more than one in five people have donated to a crowdfunding campaign to support people who can’t affords to meet costs after the death of a loved one, and 24% have donated to help with medical and living costs after a serious illness or accident.

Research by Integrity says only 38% of Australians feel they have enough life insurance to meet funeral costs and living expenses if the primary earner dies or suffers a work-ending disability.

It says 11.5 million adults don’t have enough life insurance to help them if the primary earner in their household dies or becomes unable to work.

Of people aged 18-23, 35% have donated to a crowdfunding campaign following a death, and 27% donated when the primary earner suffered a serious accident or illness. Only 19% of those aged over 65 have donated in the same way.

Data analysed by Integrity shows that GoFundMe’s campaigns raise an average $4578 for those needing financial help after a death of a loved one.

“With underinsurance so endemic across life, total and permanent disability and income protection categories, GoFundMe and other fundraising platforms have become both a first stop and a last resort,” Integrity MD Chris Powell said.

“Unfortunately, most people don’t think they will ever need to call on life insurance, but without it they’re forced to rely on the kindness and generosity of others and have their most private moments publicised.”