Funerals are not the most pleasant experience for all of us. On top of that, they can be extremely expensive. The average cost of a funeral is around $8,000, and can be even more. However, you don’t necessarily have to spend a huge amount to say goodbye to your loved ones.
Funerals can be inexpensive, yet meaningful. Here’s how:
1. Location is important
Where you choose to have the funeral service can really affect your budget. Instead of a funeral home, if you hold the service in your own home, then a major portion of your expenses will be cut. You can also have it at a church, where the cost will be much cheaper than a funeral home. Clergy members may not charge you, but it’s respectful to offer at least some amount of money called a stipend.
2. Don’t over-spend on caskets
Caskets are usually the most expensive parts of funerals. Especially if you are on a tight budget, you can always opt for cheaper ones. For example, a standard 18-gauge casket will be priced at around $1,000. Cloth-covered caskets will cost you about $500.
3. Don’t buy flowers
If you want to save money, don’t hire a florist, or get your flowers from the funeral home. You can just get them on your own from your own gardens. Even if you don’t have a garden, ask relatives and close friends who do.
4. Skip embalming
These days, many people choose to opt out of embalming. The formaldehyde used in it is toxic for the environment and not only that, it increases your bill by a significant amount.
5. Make use of veterans’ benefit
If the deceased served in the military, the Department of Veterans Affairs will have funeral and burial benefits available. Learn more on their website.
Thanks for reading,
Karen
Print Friendly
Permalink