Whether arranging in advance or faced with sudden responsibility, funeral planning can be a stressful and overwhelming process for everyone. The combination of emotional distress and the pressure to make all the necessary arrangements promptly can leave a person feeling directionless. Fortunately, funeral directors are here to help families through these tough and significant times in their life.
They work side-by-side with clients to help support them through every aspect of funeral planning, including payment and budgeting, obituaries, notices, ceremonies, memorials, burials, cremations, urns, caskets, flowers, music, poetry, plots, transportation, and much more. Funeral directors are happy to answer all your questions about funeral arrangements and pre-planning. They get many of the same questions about planning a funeral.
Please continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about funeral planning and get a clearer perspective on what to expect when it comes time to make arrangements on your own.
How Much Do Funeral Services Cost?
With so many customizable options, it is hard to say how much a funeral will cost in total. With everything to choose from (funeral homes, cemeteries, caskets, urns, burial services, cremation services, plots, attire, ceremonies, and more), costs can range significantly. It is essential to set a realistic budget and stick to it. A funeral director can work with you to create a beautiful funeral service that fits your budget. But on average, funerals can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $10,000, depending on the options you choose.
Will the VA Pay for a Veteran’s Funeral?
The Veterans Administration allows any veteran that has not been dishonorably discharged to be buried in an accepting national cemetery. But they do not pay for the cost of a funeral. In some cases, they will provide certain reimbursements, merchandise, and even services. You can check with your local VA’s office for details regarding your specific list of benefits, or you can have your funeral home provide these details for you.
Does Life Insurance Pay for Funerals?
Yes, life insurance can be used to pay for the cost of a funeral. And most qualified funeral homes will accept an insurance assignment. The funeral home processes the transaction for the insurance assignment, and any remaining balance goes directly to the beneficiary. But it is important to be sure that the life insurance policy can be applied to the kind of funeral services you desire.
Can I Arrange and Pay for a Funeral in Advance?
Yes, funeral pre-planning is a highly beneficial and stress-free service offered by most funeral homes. You can arrange and pay for everything in advance, whether for yourself or a loved one, without any emotional stress or pressure to meet time constraints. Some funeral homes will even freeze costs so that no new balance is due when the time comes to have the funeral.
Are Funeral Home Prices All-Inclusive?
No. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Funeral Rule obligates all funeral homes to operate under itemized services. This means they are required to provide their clients with a general price list for all their services, facilities, and products in an ala carte, itemized fashion to choose what they want and need.
Regardless what your needs are, Peninsula Funeral Home is here to help and be a resource during this challenging time. Give us a call and let us help.
