Whether you’re looking to the future and how much you need to put aside for yourself, you’re the one planning a loved one’s funeral, or even if you can’t make it but want to be able to help in some way, the costs of a funeral can be heavier than you might expect. Understanding what makes up those costs can help you budget and make smarter decisions that allow for a respectful farewell that doesn’t put you in financial distress.
The Funeral Director
The director plays a central role in organising things for the family, so they are also one of the main expenses that you need to consider. They play a vital role in arranging transportation, preparing your loved one for the funeral, and managing the necessary paperwork. They can also work with the venue, celebrants, and cemeteries to remove a lot of the work of organising from the family. Their costs largely depend on the level of service provided.
The Venue And Ceremony
Choosing a venue for your loved one will determine, to some degree, the costs of the ceremony. The type of ceremony itself also matters. For instance, you may need to pay fees to the clergy if you choose a religious service in a place of worship, while secular and celebrant-led ceremonies also involve charges for officiants and hire of the service location. Other costs of the venue, such as music, flowers, or printed orders of service, should also be considered.
Gravestone Or Memorial
While it’s not always immediately necessary, having a gravestone or memorial can offer a lasting dedication to your loved one. Prices can vary depending on material, size, design, and customisation, with memorial stones being amongst the most common options selected. It is important to note that you do not necessarily need to invest in a memorial or gravestone immediately. If you choose to pay to have one installed at a later date, it holds just as much meaning.
Burial Or Cremation
The costs of a funeral can largely be influenced by whether you choose burial or cremation. Burial typically involves higher expenses, including purchasing a grave plot, paying interment fees, and covering maintenance. Cremation is usually less costly but still requires payment of crematorium fees and sometimes medical certificates. The costs widely vary based on location, as they are typically set by local councils. For burials, you also need to consider long-term maintenance of the plot.
Additional Costs To Consider
It’s always worth leaving some extra money aside in the budget you create for a funeral, as there are a host of additional costs that can come with them, too. This can include transport for mourners, obituary notices in newspapers, floral tributes, and catering for wakes or receptions. You may also choose to have keepsakes created or to make a donation in the deceased’s name. When working with funeral directors or considering your wants, prioritise your spending so that you know your essentials vs. your additional expenses, just in case you need to scale things back.
With the costs above in mind, you should hopefully be able to plan out a funeral that fits within your budget, that provides a respectful and complete farewell.
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