After making several calls, you find a funeral home that you are comfortable working with. However, they tell you that they will require full payment up front. They give a price for the services you selected and you are shocked. Relax– the are some things you can do to save on funeral expenses.
Costs vary widely depending on location and options selected.
Save on Funeral Expenses – These Point Will Help
If pre-planning has not been an option there are still many things a person can do to save on funeral expenses. The 5 points below are good to keep in mind when looking to save on funeral expenses.
1.) Decide the Type of Funeral You Wish
Direct cremation is when the body is cremated without embalming. The resulting cremains (ashes) can be kept or scattered in a meaningful place. Cremation is always less expensive than body burial, simply because there is no casket (generally) and plot size is less if there is an interment at all. Funerals Your Way has many cremation and scattering options for consideration.
2.) Pick a Funeral Provider
As well, the Federal Trade Commission has information explaining your rights under a law called the FTC Funeral Rule. After some investigation, and a few phone calls, you should have the information you need.
Smaller family run funeral homes with less overhead will generally be less expensive and very appreciative of the business.
3.) Dealing with a Dead Body is Expensive
4.) Try to Use a Free Venue
5.) Make a Clear Distinction Between Wants and Needs
If you really want to save money and give a gift to humanity at the same time, you can always donate the remains to science. When doing so transportation, cremation, and return of cremated remains to the family are arranged, often at no cost. This is really a lovely gift to give the world.
The last thing to remember is that it is OK – even good to feel bad and cry. This helps start the healing process.