Save Money on the Cost of a Funeral Service - Here's How

Use the tips below to save on the cost of a funeral service.

Funeral services are not inexpensive—in fact, the average cost of a funeral service is now nearing $8,000. But, there are a number of options for those who have a tight budget and still want to make sure their loved ones get the care they deserve.

Choose a cremation service
Cremations tend to be less expensive than burials since there is no need for a burial plot or costly casket. Direct cremations, in which the body is cremated shortly after death without embalming, are the least expensive cremation option. No viewings or visitations are involved in direct cremations, but a memorial or graveside service may be added.

Choose a direct burial or opt for a green funeral service
Like a direct cremation, direct burials are performed shortly after death without embalming. No viewings or visitations are involved, but a memorial or graveside service may be added. Typically, a simple burial container is used for direct burials. A green or “natural” funeral is an alternative funeral practice that incorporates environmentally-friendly options, including any or all of the following: no cremation, no concrete burial vault, body preparation without chemicals (i.e. no embalming or embalming with formaldehyde-free products), the use of biodegradable clothing, and the use of a biodegradable wood or cardboard casket.

Hold a memorial service at home
There is no need to hold a memorial service at a funeral home – so why not save some money and hold the service in the comfort of your own home?

Compare funeral home costs
Funeral home costs can vary significantly, even in a two to three mile radius. Call up the funeral homes in your neighborhood to find out about pricing or compare your local funeral homes on eFuneral.com based on prices, ratings, reviews, and location.

Shop around for a casket or urn
You may purchase caskets and urns from funeral homes or from third parties like Costco. Compare prices and ask to see the more economical options, like a simple wooden casket or ceramic urn.

Skip the outer burial container
Outer burial containers are not required by law, although some cemeteries require them in order to keep the graves from sinking. If you are not required to have an outer burial container, like a vault or grave liner, skip this option.

It might be difficult to consider money-saving options when it comes to funeral planning for a loved one, but looking for ways to cut down on the costs of a funeral service is not a reflection of your love or respect for the deceased – nor is spending more money on a funeral service. Honoring the deceased has nothing to do with the amount of money spent on the funeral service. If you have a tight budget, don’t feel guilty about looking for money-saving options like those listed above.

You can find more articles and videos relating to funeral planning at eFuneral.com.