Planning a funeral is one of the last things anyone wants to think about. It’s an emotional time that includes a laundry list of decisions to be made. However, there’s a whole world behind the scenes of funeral planning that most of us don’t know about—but funeral directors do. Let’s look at some secrets funeral directors might not tell you about.
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Casket Costs Can Skyrocket
If you’ve ever wondered why caskets seem so pricey, it’s because the markup on these final resting “beds” can be eye-watering. We’re talking up to 500% in some cases! To save some dollars – try shopping around or even buying one online. Sure, it might feel a bit odd—but you have to keep your budget in check.
Embalming Isn’t a Must-Do
Embalming isn’t always necessary & if you’re not planning a public viewing or dealing with some specific legal requirements, you may be able to skip it to keep costs down. It’s also a great option for those who prefer a more natural approach. Just think of it as opting out of a service you might not really need.
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Renting a Casket is Totally a Thing
You may be planning a viewing but also considering cremation. In that case, you can actually rent a casket for the service, which means you can use it for the event & then return it. They don’t always advertise this option so don’t be shy about asking. It could actually save you from buying something that’ll only be used for a short time.
Package Deals Can Be Tweaked
Those package deals funeral homes offer aren’t set in stone. Thanks to the Federal Trade Commission, you have the right to pick & choose just the services you want, giving you a bit more flexibility. As such, you’ll be able to plan a service that’s both meaningful & within your budget.
Shopping Around Is Your Right
Did you know you have the right to ask for prices over the phone & get a detailed price list when you visit a funeral home? Yes—the goal is transparency. You should feel free to compare options without feeling pressured. Take advantage of this to make sure you’re getting the best deal & the exact services you want.
Not All Funeral Homes Have Their Own Crematory
While it might come as a surprise, not all funeral homes have a crematory on the premises, and you should keep this in mind if cremation is part of your plan. Your loved one may need to visit a separate facility instead. As such, you should ask about this upfront so you know exactly what to expect.
Prepaid Plans Come With a Caution Sign
You might be thinking about prepaying for your funeral to ease the burden on your family—but be careful. There’s always the risk the funeral home could go under or some additional costs that your plan doesn’t cover. Make sure you weigh all the pros & cons before signing on the dotted line. Better yet, speak directly to a funeral director to work everything out.
Personal Touches Don’t Have to Cost Extra
Adding personal touches to a funeral service doesn’t have to involve splurging on extras. Something as simple as playing your loved one’s favorite music or showing their best photos will make the service more personal without spending too much. Essentially, you’ll be able to celebrate their life in a way that feels right.
Direct Burial and Cremation Are Budget-Friendly
Funerals are expensive. If you’re looking to keep things simple & cost-effective, you might want to consider direct burial or direct cremation. These options skip the frills and focus on the essentials. As such, they’re a practical choice for anyone who wants to say goodbye without a lot of fanfare—or a big price tag.
Green Burials Are Gaining Ground
You could also try an eco-friendly farewell, also known as a green burial. These funerals skip embalming & use biodegradable materials, which is far better for the planet. Of course, not every funeral home offers this service so you might need to do some research to find a provider who does.
Veterans’ Benefits Can Help
Anyone who served in the military might be eligible for certain burial benefits, including a free plot in a national cemetery & a grave marker. These benefits are meant to honor their service and can also help make the financial burden of funeral costs a little easier. Make sure you ask about these benefits and how to claim them.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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