Funeral Costs

The cost of a funeral is one of the three or four most expensive consumer purchases. Traditional Funerals can cost upwards of $15000. They definitely don't have to be so expensive, and there's no reason to believe that paying so much for a funeral is somehow a sign of love for the departed.

What You Need To Know About Funeral Costs
By Morgan Hamilton

It is undoubtedly true that when someone passes away it is a hard time for their loved ones. When preparing someone's funeral you should take into consideration the funeral costs and the many things that must be calculated into them. There is one requirement according to which the funeral homes are obliged to provide you with a detailed amount for the cost of the funeral. Unless funeral costs are taken care of they can lead to serious financial difficulties.



Photo: arlingtoncemetery.net

The financial situation of the deceased might not be good; so many years may pass until the bills for the funeral are paid off. All the funeral costs are given to the surviving family and relatives. Many people have life insurance which covers funeral costs.

The administration costs of a funeral cover the embalming, the staff needed for the funeral and the facilities used such as chapel, preparation room and reception room.

Another thing that should be thought about is transportation. The coffin should be moved from the chapel to service area and the transport should be previously arranged. Generally a limousine is used for the immediate family of the deceased but cars could also be rented for the other family members and the close friends of the departed. What is really expensive in a funeral is the coffin and a temporary grave marker. These are the merchandise costs that should be considered, as well.

It is true that you can save some money by purchasing cheaper markers and coffins, however most families feel obliged to honor the deceased with the very best that can be offered. There are other aspects which should be accounted; these are the cash disbursements; some money should be set aside for flowers. Apart from flowers, you might buy a cemetery plot which should be added to the funeral costs. Printing materials could also add up to the costs as you will need obituaries, invitations, announcements and a death certificate.

However, the main cost of cash disbursements comes from the headstone of the grave. Its price varies a lot and you can buy a cheap or a very expensive one depending on your finances. Other things which might be easily forgotten but should also be added to the funeral costs are guest books, honorariums and the price of food for the wake. When arranging a funeral most funeral homes will explain you all the different funeral costs and will leave you choose the best options for you.

Then they will make all the arrangements needed for the funeral. The funeral costs are different in the different funeral homes but they all include the many costs we mentioned above. This information might be helpful to you in case you have to arrange a funeral. After all, the funeral should run smooth and you have to pay the funeral costs but you should watch out that you are not financially burdened with unforeseen costs.

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning religion and spirituality. Get the information you are seeking now by visiting Funeral Costs