The final goodbye

Money-Saving Tips for Planning Your Own Funeral

2 October 2017 by Monica Ruiz

There are pretty much two types of people: those who hate to be reminded about their own eventual death and those who aren't bothered about thinking of the inevitable. Despite this division, people are increasingly choosing to plan their own funeral, which is definitely a sensible thing to do.

The actual extent of planning varies, with some people just writing down a few notes and keeping it somewhere safe, while others make a full, detailed plan and even put aside some money for funding everything.

If you're in the latter group, you might be looking at ways you can cut the costs. Even if you're not, it's worth thinking about so you can reduce the burden on your loved ones and leave instructions that save money. Here are some things to consider when you're making your plans.

Ask about discounts

It's always worth finding out if you're entitled to any savings. Some funeral homes, cemetery operators and crematoriums offer discounts to people in public service work, the military, and other careers.

You may also be able to negotiate a discount with the funeral home you choose if you're able to pay in full upfront. Even if you're making an advance part payment rather than the whole amount, there's no harm in asking if they can give you a good deal.

Shop around

Because they perform such an important public service, it's easy to forget that funeral homes are businesses. But businesses they are, and as such, they need to be competitive.

This need for competition means you can save considerable money by making a few comparisons. And when you're planning your own funeral in advance, you have the time to carefully consider your decision, as it's not urgent. If there's a particular funeral home you prefer over cheaper options, you may be able to use quoted prices as a bargaining tool to bring down their prices.

Choose the casket

This is often one of the most expensive parts of a funeral, even though its purpose is technically limited. Cheaper options include wicker and cardboard, but if you have your heart set on a traditional ornate, wooden casket, there's one more possibility. You can sometimes rent a casket, which will be used with a cardboard inner. When you're buried or cremated after the service, your body will be removed and the wooden casket taken away.

Choose cremation

The costs associated with burial can be vast, so it's worth giving some consideration to cremation instead if you want to save money. You might also be able to avoid being embalmed if you take this option, although this can limit the opportunity for viewings before the funeral.

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