Introduction
The death of a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a person can go through. In addition to the emotional turmoil, there are often practical decisions that need to be made about the deceased’s final arrangements. One of these decisions is how much money to spend on the funeral. Funerals can be expensive, and it is important to understand the costs associated with them in order to plan and budget accordingly.
A Breakdown of the Average Cost of a Funeral
According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the median cost of a funeral in 2019 was $7,640. The NFDA also estimates that the average cost of a burial was $9,135, while the average cost of a cremation was $3,556. These costs do not include any additional expenses such as cemetery plots, memorial markers, or flowers.
There are two types of costs associated with funerals: direct costs, which are the costs of goods and services provided by a funeral home, and indirect costs, which are costs associated with the burial or cremation itself, such as a cemetery plot or cremation urn. Examples of direct costs may include the cost of a casket, embalming, visitation or memorial service, and transportation of the body. Indirect costs may include cemetery or crematorium fees, death certificates, and flowers.
Planning Ahead: Preparing Financially for a Funeral
Although it is not always possible to plan ahead for a funeral, it is beneficial to do so if you can. Planning ahead allows you to research different funeral options and find the best deal for your needs. It also gives you time to set aside money for the funeral. Some people choose to open a savings account specifically for this purpose, while others purchase life insurance policies that will cover the cost of a funeral.
In addition to setting aside money, it is also helpful to research different funeral homes and compare prices. Different funeral homes may offer different services at different prices, so it is important to shop around before committing to any one provider.
The Hidden Costs of a Funeral
When planning a funeral, it is important to be aware of all the potential costs associated with the process. Many people overlook certain costs, such as death certificates, flowers, and transportation, which can add up quickly. It is also important to remember that some states require that certain items, such as a casket, be purchased from a funeral home.
In order to avoid surprise costs, it is important to ask the funeral director for an itemized list of all the services they provide and their associated costs. This will help ensure that you are aware of all the expenses involved in planning the funeral.
How to Cut Costs When Planning a Funeral
When planning a funeral, there are several strategies for cutting costs. For example, opting for a direct cremation instead of a traditional funeral service can save thousands of dollars. Additionally, many funeral homes offer different packages at different price points, so it is important to explore all of your options when selecting a funeral home.
It is also possible to save money by asking family and friends to contribute to the cost of the funeral. Many people are willing to help out in times of need, and this can be a great way to reduce the financial burden of a funeral.
Exploring Different Funeral Packages and Prices
When shopping for a funeral package, it is important to compare prices from different providers. Funeral homes may offer different packages at different price points, so it is important to explore all of your options before making a decision. Additionally, some funeral homes may offer discounts or special offers, so it is worth asking about these as well.
When comparing prices, it is important to make sure that you are comparing “apples to apples”. Some funeral homes may offer lower prices but skimp on services, so it is important to read the fine print and make sure that you are getting the services that you want and need.
Tips for Saving Money on a Funeral
In addition to shopping around for the best prices, there are other ways to save money on a funeral. For example, opting for a less traditional funeral can save money. Many people opt for a direct cremation or a memorial service instead of a traditional funeral. Additionally, utilizing online resources such as funeral planning websites can help you find the best deals on funeral services.
Another way to save money is to purchase items such as caskets or urns online. Although this may not be ideal for everyone, it can be a great way to save money if you are comfortable with the idea.
Understanding Your Rights When Shopping for Funeral Services
It is important to remember that you have rights as a consumer when shopping for funeral services. Federal and state laws protect consumers from unfair and deceptive practices, and it is important to know your rights when dealing with funeral homes. For example, federal law requires funeral homes to provide consumers with a price list of all goods and services offered, as well as a General Price List (GPL) outlining the cost of each item.
Additionally, federal law requires funeral homes to accept payment from third-party sources, such as insurance companies or government benefits. Knowing your rights as a consumer can help ensure that you get the best deal when shopping for funeral services.
Conclusion
Planning a funeral is a difficult and emotionally challenging experience. It is also a costly endeavor, and it is important to understand the costs associated with funerals in order to plan and budget accordingly. The average cost of a funeral in 2019 was estimated to be around $7,640, though the exact cost will depend on the type of services selected. Additionally, there may be hidden costs associated with funerals, such as death certificates and transportation, which should be taken into consideration when budgeting. Finally, it is important to remember that you have rights as a consumer when shopping for funeral services, and understanding these rights can help you get the best deal.
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