ways to Reduce Funeral Costs

10 Practical Ways To Reduce Funeral Costs

Funerals are an important part of saying goodbye to a loved one, but they can also be very expensive. According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the average cost of a funeral in the United States is over $7,000, and that does not include other related expenses such as cemetery plot, headstone, or flowers. However, there are ways to reduce funeral costs without compromising the quality of the service. In this article, we will discuss some practical tips to help you reduce funeral costs.

Consider cremation


Cremation is becoming more and more popular as an alternative to traditional burial. It is generally less expensive than a burial, and there are many options available for the final disposition of the ashes. You can scatter the ashes, keep them in an urn, or bury them in a cemetery plot. Cremation also eliminates the need for embalming, which can be a significant cost.

Choose a simple casket


The casket is one of the most expensive items for a funeral. You can save money by choosing a simple casket rather than an elaborate one. The Federal Trade Commission’s Funeral Rule requires funeral homes to show you a list of caskets and their prices, so you can compare and choose the one that fits your budget.

Shop around


Just like any other purchase, it is essential to shop around for funeral services. Funeral homes have different prices, and you may be able to save a lot of money by comparing prices. You can also ask for a price list to compare costs. However, keep in mind that the cheapest option may not be the best option for you, so consider the quality of the service as well.

Plan ahead


Planning ahead can help you save money on funeral costs. When you plan ahead, you can choose the funeral services that fit your budget, and you can also take advantage of pre-payment plans. Many funeral homes offer pre-need plans that allow you to pay for your funeral in advance, which can help you save money and avoid financial stress for your loved ones.

Have a simple service


A simple service can be just as meaningful as an elaborate one. You can save money by having a small service with just a few family members and friends. You can also have the service at home or a park instead of a funeral home.

Skip the extras


Funeral homes may offer extras such as flowers, limousine service, or a printed program. While these extras may add to the service’s overall experience, they can also add to the cost. If you are trying to save money, consider skipping the extras and focus on the essentials.

Consider a home funeral


A home funeral is a growing trend where the funeral service takes place at home. This can be an intimate and personal way to say goodbye to a loved one, and it can also be less expensive than a traditional funeral. With a home funeral, you can take care of the body yourself, which can save money on embalming and transportation.

Donate the body to science


Donating the body to science is a great way to contribute to medical research while also saving money on funeral costs. If you choose to donate the body, the medical school or research institution will cover the cost of the final disposition, which can include cremation or burial.

Hold the service at a church


If you belong to a church, consider holding the service there. Many churches do not charge for the use of their facilities for funerals. This can save you money on the rental of a funeral home.

Consider a green burial


A green burial is an environmentally friendly option that involves burying the body without embalming or using a casket. The body is placed directly in the ground, and a biode gradable shroud is used instead of a casket. Green burials are often less expensive than traditional burials, and they also have a lower impact on the environment. However, it is essential to check with local regulations and cemetery policies to make sure that green burials are allowed in your area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, funerals can be expensive, but there are ways to reduce funeral costs without sacrificing the quality of the service. By considering options like cremation, simple caskets, planning ahead, and skipping extras, you can significantly reduce the cost of a funeral. It is important to remember that the most important thing is to honor the memory of your loved one, and a simple and meaningful service can do that just as well as an elaborate one.

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