Planning Low Cost Funeral Services

When it comes to making arrangements to lay a loved one to rest, this is never a happy time, especially when cost is a factor. Planning low cost funeral services does not mean that you have to skimp on quality, but a matter of making well informed decisions.

If the deceased belongs to a religious organization, there is usually no charge to the family for the services. Many clergy do charge for the service, but most are willing to perform the memorial service at no charge if the family is having financial issues.

Funeral Home or Church

The decision to have services in a funeral home or a church is a matter of personal preference. If the deceased was a member of a religious organization, it is only natural that the services will be held in their place of worship. Memorial services can be held anywhere you choose, in a home, a park, even at the graveside just before the burial. There is no right or wrong place to hold a memorial service.

Deciding on a Service

Choosing a service is a matter of deciding what the family desires. A small simple memorial service is just as nice as an big celebration of life. It is important to take into consideration the number of people who will come to pay their respects. If you choose a small funeral home, but are expecting a large crowd, this may not be appropriate. Discuss the options with the funeral director to get advice on what may be best for your family’s situation.

Cremation Options

If a family has chosen to cremate the remains there are options available. The deceased can be taken directly to the crematory and the family can have a simple memorial service without a viewing or they can opt to have a service at the funeral home or other location. This cuts down on the expense of preparing the deceased as well as the funeral home’s fees for services provided.

Even when choosing a traditional service, there are things you can do to keep costs down. Retrieving the death certificate yourself, calling the local newspaper instead of having the funeral home do it. Printing up your own program for the service. All of these things can help cut costs. Providing your own registrar book and flowers is another way. Purchasing your own urn if the deceased will be cremated.

There are also other costs incurred with cremation such as transporting the decreased to the crematory, the fees charge for the service, as well as the cost of an urn. Of course, you can provide your own with a much smaller price tag.

Opting For A Traditional Goodbye

It is not uncommon for families to opt for a traditional memorial service, regardless of the cost. There are ways to minimize the costs even when you choose this option. Having the calling hours just before the service is one way. Having family members and friends speak instead of hiring clergy. Choosing a lower cost casket instead of an elaborate model will save significantly.

What is the Funeral Director’s Role

Many funeral homes do more than just help you pick out a casket or urn. Most will handle all of the paperwork, including the newspaper notices, take care of the death certificate, provide transportation to the cemetery such as the use of Toronto funeral limo, and flowers at your request. If you do not have a particular funeral home in mind, get referrals from others or call yourself to find a place that you feel comfortable with.

Memorial services for some are a way to say goodbye and for some it’s a celebration of life. Preparing for a memorial service can be as simple or elaborate as your budget allows. What is really important is that you come to terms that your loved one has moved on and be at peace with it.

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