7 Ways to Save on Funeral Costs

When you read the title 7 ways to save on funeral costs, you probably thought about how insensitive that would be. After all, how do you respect and grieve a loved one by trying to find ways to save money on their funeral?

But let’s face it, death arrangements can get very pricey. Just research the average cost of a funeral. (Between $7,000 and $10,000 that is, according to FuneralTips.)There’s caskets, embalming, funeral services, viewings, graveside services, headstones and hearses to think about. Not to mention an officiant, flowers and many other expenses. So if the deceased happened to have a bad insurance plan, or if no one liked him much and a cheap funeral is in order, this list could prove useful.

Whether it’s your own future funeral or that of your loved ones, there’s no doubt you’d like to save at least a few bucks, and that doesn’t mean you’re disrespectful. Though you shouldn’t go as far as to grab a shovel and head to the backyard. (For other ways older generations can save, check out the 7 Most Affordable Countries to Live and Retire in the World.)

The shovel idea might be tempting however, once you discover all the vast funeral expenses people are paying these days, and how much is the average cost of a funeral, as mentioned earlier. And, with a recent death, who wants to strategize about saving money on funeral costs? You’d rather just bury your face in a wad of tissues and sob, not only because of your loss, but also because you’ll soon be poverty stricken. We understand. That’s why we did all the work for you.

The 7 ways to save on funeral costs will serve as a comforting relief. So muffle your sobs, put down the tissues and read on.

7. Bypass the embalming process

Did you know most states don’t require this process for funerals? Instead, consider refrigeration. Most funeral homes price body refrigeration much more reasonably than they do embalming.

6. Go for direct cremation or immediate burial

For cremation, any funeral home in the country is an option, which drastically saves on costs. Simply have the ashes mailed to you. Remains are much easier to store at a cemetery, and, therefore, less expensive. They can alternatively be buried or scattered almost anywhere.

But if you’re more comfortable with burial, have it done immediately. This eliminates the need for preservation (discussed in number 7). You won’t have to give up a graveside service or nice casket in this case, either, as long as you’re quick and willing to settle for something simple. Consider holding a private viewing for close family members right in the place of death. Then, relieve your mind by holding a memorial service whenever it’s convenient. And since there will be no body involved, hold the event at a church, home, park or community center instead of a costly funeral home.

5. Opt for donation

Many medical institutions cover all costs and some even include transportation. They also provide cremated remains within a few months to two years after donation. A memorial service could also be held in this case, which was discussed in number 6 of the 7 ways to save on funeral costs.

4. Don’t emotionally overspend

Feeling the pressure of making arrangements on top of grief can often lead to unnecessary spending. To avoid this, ask family members or friends to help with financial decision making. Or, ask yourself whether you can honestly handle it, and if not, let someone else (perhaps someone less emotionally involved) take care of the death arrangements.

3. Plan ahead

Say Ethel prefers a simple as opposed to an extravagant funeral and tells her loved ones this at the end of her life. Now she’s saved both money and hassle for those in charge of her funeral arrangements. It may be an awkward subject to discuss, but it’s always much better, and often less expensive, to follow the exact wishes of the deceased, down to the song selection. Ethel also won’t be rolling over in her casket because you picked her least favorite song.

2. Don’t forget about Veteran’s benefits

Honorably discharged veterans get burial benefits including gravesites in any of the 125 national cemeteries that have adequate space. Their spouses and children are also eligible. Other benefits may include grave opening and closing, grave care, headstone or marker, burial flag and even a Presidential Memorial Certificate. If your loved one served, the United States Navy also provides a burial at sea or remains scattering from aboard Navy vessels. Thanks, United States government.

1. Don’t purchase containers at the funeral home

Funeral homes sell caskets. Funeral homes sell urns. And of course, it’s much easier to purchase theirs than search elsewhere for the materials you need, so that’s what most people do. It’s like a candy bar. They’re sold everywhere, but most people buy them wherever they are at the moment, no matter how jacked-up the price may be. Don’t be one of those people. Shop around and compare costs, then purchase the container that’s most economical. And don’t worry, most funeral homes can’t charge customers to use containers bought elsewhere. Though they might be a little salty at you for figuring out their plan to overcharge you.

So dry your eyes and implement some of the 7 ways to save on funeral costs. We’re happy to help.