6 Tips for Planning Funeral Services

by Kevin Smith Author

Whether you're making arrangements for a recently passed loved one or preparing for your own memorial services so your loved ones don't have to, planning a funeral is an important step in dealing with a difficult time in your life. Use these tips to help you make the best decisions possible regarding any funeral services you're arranging.

1. Understand Every Step of the Process

Before beginning to make arrangements, it's important to understand everything that goes into the funeral process. There are three basic components to plan for; preparing the body, holding a memorial ceremony, and the interment. There are options to consider for each step. Do you want a burial or cremation? A full, traditional service or something to your own preferences? Consider each step before starting to make your plans.

2. Learn the Average Costs Involved

While there are many variables when it comes to determining the cost of end-of-life services, it's good to know a general ballpark of what prices to expect so that you have some idea of if you're getting a good deal or not. Research the current market to help you recognize a good deal when you see it and, conversely, to know when a service provider is attempting to overcharge you.

3. Get Prices from Multiple Providers

As is a good practice before any purchase, you'll want to shop around with multiple different providers before choosing who to go with for your funeral arrangements. Doing your research during this step will help you keep expenses reasonable.

4. Weigh the Options of Package Deals

Funeral homes might offer bundled services, for example including a cemetery plot and a grave marker for one price. Like when you're buying other goods or services, bundling multiple purchases into one transaction can help you save money. However, make sure you clearly understand what you're buying so that you aren't purchasing any funeral home services that you don't want or need.

5. Benefits of a Memorial Society

One option that may help you prepare for this difficult time in advance is joining a memorial society. These nonprofit groups can negotiate with funeral service providers to help their members get the best price possible. Joining often involves a one-time membership fee that, in some cases, can save you money in the long run.

6. Plan Before the Need Arises

If at all possible, it's best to have preparations made before the passing of yourself or a loved one. You'll want to focus on reflection and healing during your time of bereavement and won't want to deal with the details of making arrangements. That's why it's best to act proactively and work with a professional to have a clear plan in place ahead of time.

Follow these guidelines to help you through the complexities of arranging end-of-life services. With the right information and trustworthy help at your side, you'll navigate this difficult time and have a respectful service that provides closure and healing in your time of grief.