ManagingMoney.com, July 30th, 2007
Choosing a funeral provider can be a stressful experience for those with little experience and who may be emotionally distraught over the sudden death of a loved one. It is not required by law to use a funeral home, but the many legal requirements and details may make using the professional services of a funeral home more convenient for the family.
Families often choose a funeral home because they have used its services in the past, it is close to home, or has been recommended by a friend. Limiting your search to just one funeral home may also limit your choice of goods and services and end up costing you more than necessary.
A basic funeral costs about $6,000, and may be much higher depending on the extras you choose. Initial comparison shopping may be done over the phone, saving time and stress. Funeral homes are required to give you price information over the phone, and some will also send you an itemized price list through the mail at your request.
When comparison shopping in person, take a trusted friend with you to help ask questions and aid in your decision-making. It’s easy to be talked into adding extravagances or choosing the most expensive items when you are under duress.
Purchasing a funeral package will often cost less than choosing individual items and services. Compare the total cost of the items and services all together, as well as individual prices. The funeral home is still required by law to give you an itemized price list, even if you decide you may want a package.
Preplanning your own funeral can help save money and reduce the amount of stress on the family at the time of death. Making arrangements in advance relieves your family of that stress when the time comes. Sit down with your family to discuss the type of funeral you want, or let them know what arrangements you have made. Don’t put your preplanned arrangements in your will, which isn’t usually read until after the burial.
Some funeral homes will encourage you to prepay for your funeral. This may give you peace of mind, but consider that prices may go up or down, or the funeral home you have chosen may go out of business. If you do prepay for your funeral, read the contract carefully and know what state laws may protect you. It may be wiser to put the money into a special bank account and to notify your executor what the money is to be used for.
