How to Reduce Your Funeral Expenses

When someone passes away, there are many expenses associated with that person’s passing away. Whether it is the cost of the funeral home in St. Albans, WV, the cost of the casket, or the cost of the burial plot, the costs can add up very quickly. However, there are ways to reduce the expenses. We are going to look at some of the things you can do to reduce the expenses of a funeral.

What is the Funeral Rule?

A lot of funeral homes create packages that would seem like you as a customer could save money by buying them. While these packages are designed to add value to their services, you might be getting some services that you do not need or want. The Funeral Rule enforced by the Federal Trade Commission helps customers avoid having to accept these package deals. You can choose and pay for the services that you want and need.

Do your “window shopping.”

For sure, there are a handful of funeral homes in your area. Start by getting the phone numbers of each one and call their hotlines. Ask each funeral home about their services and the price for each service. Be as objective as possible. Do not be influenced by factors like location or that the funeral home is owned by a family friend. As per the Funeral Rule, you have the right to know the pricing even if it is over the phone and without you having to divulge any information about the person who passed away or about yourself. You might also find funeral homes that offer payment plans as long as one year or even longer.

As a funeral planner, you should keep in mind that looking for ways to save costs is neither improper nor socially incorrect. You should feel compelled to make a purchase you cannot afford.

Cremation

Cremations are performed by reducing the corpse to bone fragments either by burning or vaporizing the remains. Cremation may serve as a funeral rite itself or as a part of one. It is widely known as the most cost-effective method of handling the deceased.

Embalming is optional

You are not required by law in any state to embalm the body of the deceased, nor can funeral homes require you to do so unless there is going to be a public viewing. One alternative to embalming is refrigeration, and it can save you hundreds of dollars.

Direct burial

In a direct burial, the deceased is promptly buried without a viewing for the public. As a result, there is no requirement for embalming, cosmetology, or the use of a funeral home.

Alternative containers

No matter where the buyer purchases the casket or urn, the funeral home in St. Albans, WV or anywhere else cannot refuse to accept it. This includes caskets or urns bought from a local, bargain, or online retailer. This casket or urn may not be used for a fee by the funeral home. The family member who placed the order cannot be required to be present when the casket or urn is delivered by the funeral home. So, buying a casket or urn from a wholesaler can result in hundreds of dollars in savings. Many of these businesses provide next-day delivery, and some even provide free delivery. Contact us today if you need help or would like to get more information about our services.