Have you ever wondered, “How expensive is a funeral?” While there are lots of factors that can influence the cost, the average funeral is around $7,640.
Since dealing with the loss of a loved one is hard enough, you shouldn’t have to worry about paying for their funeral.
So how can you honor your loved one’s memory without breaking the bank? Keep reading to learn 6 effective tips that will lower funeral expenses.
1. Get Quotes From Different Funeral Homes
While there are average funeral expenses for the entire country, it’s still possible to get a wide price range from funeral homes within the same town. This is why it’s important to take your time shopping and collect different quotes. Doing this will ensure you get a fair deal.
2. Don’t Get Pressured into Fancy Extras
A sad truth is that many in the funeral industry can prey on emotional people to get more money out of them. Make sure you’re calm and collected while you speak with the funeral home directors and other professionals. They may try to upsell with features like embalmment or luxurious caskets, but these extras aren’t needed.
3. Take Advantage of Funeral Expense Insurance
If your loved one had a comprehensive life insurance plan or funeral insurance, then don’t forget to cash in so you can offset your expenses. The loss of a loved one can often remind us to make sure our own legal arrangements are in order for when we pass, so you might want to consider revisiting your insurance plans.
4. Opt for Cremation Instead of Burial
As long as you’re comfortable with having ashes instead of a body to say goodbye to, then cremations can cost a third of a traditional burial or less. A nice bonus is that you’ll be able to keep their ashes close to your or spread them in a meaningful place.
5. Ask for Donations Instead of Flowers
Another way you can manage the funeral cost is to ask friends and family of the deceased to give donations instead of flowers. Since this practice is becoming a lot more common, you shouldn’t feel guilty asking for financial help.
6. Consider Donating Their Body for Science
If you really need help with funeral expenses, then you always have the option to donate your loved one’s body for science. While you will have to part with the body right away, every cost will be covered by the medical school. In many cases, the cremated remains will be sent back to you within a year or two.
Now You Don’t Have to Stress Over Funeral Expenses
Lots of people wonder, “How much are funeral expenses?” Now that you know 6 unique ways you can lower the costs, you can focus on celebrating your loved one’s life instead of worrying about finances.
Did you enjoy this article on reducing funeral expenses? If you want to know other ways you can make your money work harder for you, browse our site to find more great tips.
