When my grandmother passed away, I was astonished to learn that I had been named the executor of her estate. After splitting up her belongings amongst my aunts and uncles, I turned my attention to planning her funeral. I didn't know where to start. Fortunately, I was able to find an excellent funeral home that understood how to help people plan beautiful memorial services. It was amazing to go through the process of planning the music, the speakers, and even the set-up of the room. This blog is all about planning gorgeous memorial services for the people that you love so that you aren't left grappling with difficult decisions.
A death of a close family member is hard enough without the additional financial burdens often placed on surviving loved ones. Usually the most immediate and pressing of these burdens is planning for the funeral. In fact, the emotional distress caused by a loved one's passing often means wanting to rush through the process rather than taking the time to evaluate all options. So take a look below at four things you should try to keep in mind when planning a funeral, especially if funds are low.
Fees
Unfortunately, funeral expenses are often far higher than a family expects, even if they have reviewed detailed quotes from a funeral home. This is because cemetery and monument fees are not included. Though a representative of a funeral home is usually more than willing to handle all communications with a cemetery on your behalf, make sure to figure in cemetery and monument fees (if applicable) in your total budget.
Embalming
If you plan to bury or cremate the body of a loved one shortly after death, embalming is not actually necessary. In fact, refrigeration of the body is a far more cost-effective alternative, and it's available from almost all funeral homes. This is something that may seem minor, but it can in fact save you hundreds of dollars when all is said and done.
Packages
Many funeral homes offer an assortment of package deals that are attractive to customers for a number of reasons, most notably because they eliminate the stress of going through a long itemized list and selecting individual goods and services. But keep in mind that packages—though convenient—may not be the most cost-effective option. Funeral homes are legally required to give you an itemized list with corresponding prices, so don't hesitate to ask for one. A few extra minutes of your time may save you quite a bit of money.
Caskets
One of the most expensive parts of a funeral is the casket. Almost all funeral homes will have a variety of caskets for sale, but under no circumstances are you required to purchase a casket from the funeral home directly. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission forbids funeral homes from refusing a casket that has been made or purchased elsewhere. Furthermore, they cannot charge you a fee for handling the casket. Keep this in mind if you locate a more inexpensive casket outside the funeral home.
For further information about funeral expenses, contact an establishment like the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home.
Share19 November 2015
