Before we advise you on how to save on funeral costs in Alabama – and the rest of the country, it’s important to note that we understand this is a difficult topic for many. No one wants to think about financial matters when contemplating the loss of a loved one. But, at the same time, the National Funeral Director Association reported that the average funeral cost with a viewing and burial is $7,848. (And the median cost of a funeral with cremation is $6,971.) So, we need to have an honest discussion about end-of-life expenses.
Here are some tips on how to save money on funeral services.
What You Need to Know About Funeral Expenses
This information is for those pre-arranging their own funeral service or for families struggling to know what to do after a death.
1. Know your rights.
The Federal Trade Commission introduced the Funeral Rule. Under this, funeral providers are required under federal law to give you a written statement of all costs of the funeral goods and services. So, asking for a price list when making funeral arrangements is okay.
2. Most funeral homes offer affordable funeral packages.
To simplify things, most funeral homes offer several packages for burial and cremation services. Look at the details of each package to select the right option for you.
3. Direct cremation is typically the most affordable option.
The cremation process is always the same, no matter how much you pay for it. The most affordable cremation option is direct cremation. In this option, the deceased is transported directly to the cremation center. After the required waiting period, the cremation is performed, and the cremated remains are released to the family of the deceased.
Direct cremation is the most affordable choice because there’s no embalming, preparation of the body, or casket for viewing. However, you can still have a memorial service for your loved one following a direct cremation.
4. If you are pre-planning, ask about final expense insurance or pre-payment options.
Pre-paying for services can often help reduce the high cost of funerals. Sometimes, a funeral home will allow you to lock in current prices when you prepay for burial or cremation costs.
Ask your local funeral director about funeral insurance (or burial insurance) options.
5. Select a funeral option that you can afford.
Many families want to fulfill their loved one’s “final wishes.” However, you can only pay for services that you can afford. Remember that there might be a small benefit from Social Security, and your loved one may have had life insurance.
Talk with your funeral director to determine the best options to enable you to work within your budget.
For low-cost Alabama cremation services, contact Alabama Funeral Homes and Cremation Centers. We offer burial and cremation packages at many different price levels. Our staff will also help you with important matters, such as ordering certified copies of the death certificate and planning a memorial service for your loved one.
Key Takeaways About End-of-Life Expenses
- Funeral homes must provide a statement of costs for goods and services.
- Most funeral homes offer several cremation and burial packages.
- Direct cremation is typically the most affordable option.
- If you are pre-planning a funeral, ask how to save money by prepaying for services.
- Select a funeral option you can afford.
