Saving on Funeral Costs

At a time of grieving it can be difficult to talk about money. It is very common for people to overspend on funerals out of a sense of duty or honour but you don't have to put yourself or your family into financial difficulty. Whatever your budget or funeral preferences, here are some of the cost saving tactics recommended by consumer advocates:

1. Plan ahead. Talk about death with your spouse and/or parents. Know what you want and commit those wishes to paper. Without preplanning in addition to dealing with the sadness of your passing, your survivors are left to wonder what you would want, which generally leads to overspending. Do you want a private family service or do you want an elaborate one? Flowers or donations?

2. Get at Least 2 Estimates. Some people are hesitant to look around for the best price but it can save you thousands of dollars and is highly recommended. Use Funeral-Services Funeral Referral Service, to compare quotes from pre-qualified providers.

3. Buy a simple casket or coffin. Caskets and Coffins are one of the biggest single funeral expenses. You don't have to buy an expensive mahogany, silk lined casket, especially if your loved one's body is soon to be cremated. Simple dignified coffins can be made from a variety of materials including: recycled cardboard, pine or particle board.

4. Take an support person. Don't make arrangements on your own. Ask a friend, neighbour or someone who can objectively discuss the arrangements with you to make sure you and your family get what you want without overpaying. Take your time with decisions, don't feel pressured into making decisions immediately.

5. Consider cremation. The cost of cremation is generally less than the cost of burial. You won't have to pay for a burial plot and you can scatter the remains where you choose at a time of your choosing.

6. DYI arrangements? Don't be fooled into thinking that the traditional full service funeral is your only option or that you have to purchase every product or service that your funeral director has available. It is important to make decisions that fit within your budget and will make the funeral service most meaningful to you. You can handle the arrangements of a funeral without using a funeral director. For more information on DYI Funeral Arrangements, download the Funeral Costs Fact Sheet developed by the Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association of NSW Inc.

7. Plan a memorial or funeral service without the body present. Consider holding a memorial service, without the body, in a place that meant much to the deceased such as the family home, favourite holiday spot or park, rather than at a chapel. There would be no need for embalming, fancy casket or expensive transporting of the body.