-
Shop around
in advance. Compare prices from at least two funeral
homes. Remember that you can supply your own casket or urn.
-
Ask for a
price list. The law requires funeral homes to give you
written price lists for products and services.
-
Resist
pressure to buy goods and services you don't really want
or need.
-
Avoid
emotional overspending. It's not necessary to have the
fanciest casket or the most elaborate funeral to properly honor a
loved one.
-
Recognize
your rights. Laws regarding funerals and burials vary
from state to state. It's a smart move to know which goods or
services the law requires you to purchase and which are optional.
-
Apply the
same smart shopping techniques you use for other major
purchases. You can cut costs by limiting the viewing to one day or
one hour before the funeral, and by dressing your loved one in a
favorite outfit instead of costly burial clothing.
-
Plan ahead.
It allows you to comparison shop without time constraints, creates
an opportunity for family discussion, and lifts some of the burden
from your family.
