Whether you are a child wanting to talk to your parents about making preparations in the event of their passing or looking to make those preparations for yourself, it is hard to know where to start.
You actually have more control over your funeral choices than you might think.
Here are five factors to consider when choosing funeral homes to help you know how to start making those choices.
1. You Have Rights
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has outlined the rights that you have with companies that offer funeral services. If you start to feel pressured or like you don’t have that many options, the funeral home you are working with may not be the right one for you.
According to the Funeral Rule, funeral providers can charge a base fee for basic funeral services. Charges will be added from there for anything beyond this and that is when you need to know what your rights are so you make sure to get what you want.
2. Decide What You Want Before You Go
To that end, take the time to sit down and decide what you would like your services to look like and how you want to be buried.
Knowing whether you want to be cremated or not, how elaborate you want your services, or where you want to be buried will help give you a foundation to build from.
Planning a funeral, especially your own, can feel a little surreal so don’t be afraid to involve your family and ask for help as you think this through and avoid these funeral planning mistakes.
3. Consider Your Budget and Compare Prices
Now that you have a basic idea of what you would like, decide on a funeral home budget. You can shop around, look at different funeral home options, and compare their prices and services.
In 2019 the average cost for a traditional funeral was around $9,000. Part of your rights as outlined by the FTC is to request an itemized statement with the total proposed cost.
4. You Don’t Have to Settle For Who’s Closest
Budget or proximity are not your only considerations when working with a funeral home. Take the time to research each business you are considering.
Look at reviews from others who have used their services and take the time to feel out if that particular funeral home is a good fit for you and your family.
Remember that funeral providers, while offering a necessary service, should still want to serve you and earn your business.
5. Communicate
When deciding on your personalized funeral services it is important to communicate.
Communicate your wishes clearly with each funeral home. Let them serve you, not tell you what you should or shouldn’t do.
Most importantly, communicate with your family. Make sure they know who you decide, what the budget is, what you have prepared and what they may need to take care of when the time comes.
You Have Options When Choosing Funeral Homes
If you keep these five things in mind when choosing funeral homes you will have the best opportunity to have your funeral arrangements done the way you want them and within your budget. You and your family will be much happier if you take the time to plan ahead and find a funeral home that is the right fit for you.
Have more questions on your mind? Check out other posts on our site for great information on a variety of topics!