Planning an affordable funeral involves making thoughtful decisions to balance cost with the desire to honor and remember the deceased respectfully. Here are steps to help you plan an affordable funeral:

1. Research and Compare Funeral Homes

• Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several funeral homes to request general price lists (GPL). Compare prices for services and products to find the best value.
• Use Online Resources: Websites like the Funeral Consumers Alliance and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offer guides and tools for comparing funeral costs.
• Buy your own casket: Purchasing your own casket from a reputable online source such as http://www.casketemporium.com

2. Consider Direct Burial or Cremation

• Direct Burial: This involves burying the body shortly after death without embalming or a formal viewing. It’s typically less expensive than a traditional funeral.
• Direct Cremation: The body is cremated shortly after death without a viewing or funeral service beforehand. This option is often more affordable.

3. Limit Services

• Graveside Service: Opt for a simple graveside service instead of a full funeral service at a funeral home or church.
• Memorial Service: Hold a memorial service at home, a community center, or another inexpensive venue. This can be scheduled at a time convenient for family and friends, even after cremation or burial.
• Buy your own casket: Purchasing your own casket from a reputable online source such as http://www.casketemporium.com

4. Choose an Affordable Casket or Urn

• Caskets: Purchase a casket from a third-party retailer, which can be less expensive than buying one directly from a funeral home. Online retailers like Walmart and http://www.casketemporium.com
• Urns: Similarly, purchase an urn online or use a simple container provided by the crematory.

5. Opt for a Natural or Green Burial

• Green Burial: Green or natural burials often involve less expensive biodegradable caskets or shrouds and eliminate the need for embalming. Green burial sites are generally less costly than traditional cemeteries.
• Online Green Caskets: The largest online green casket options are here https://casketemporium.com/product-category/eco-friendly-caskets/

6. Forego Embalming

• Skip Embalming: Embalming is often not required by law and can be an unnecessary expense. Refrigeration can be an alternative to preserve the body until burial or cremation.

7. Limit Viewing and Visitation

• Private Viewing: If a viewing is desired, consider having a private family viewing instead of a public one. This can reduce costs associated with preparation and facility use.

8. Handle Certain Tasks Yourself

• Obituary and Programs: Write the obituary and design any service programs yourself, then print them at a local print shop or at home.
• Transport: If allowed, consider transporting the body yourself in a suitable vehicle to save on transportation costs.
• Buy your own casket: Purchasing your own casket from a reputable online source such as http://www.casketemporium.com

10. Utilize Funeral Assistance Programs

• Assistance Programs: Look into government programs, nonprofit organizations, or local charities that offer financial assistance for funeral expenses.

11. Pre-Plan the Funeral

• Pre-Planning: If possible, pre-plan the funeral to lock in current prices and avoid emotional overspending during a time of grief.

By considering these steps and making informed decisions, you can plan a respectful and meaningful funeral while keeping costs manageable.

If there are any questions please call 800 618 4642 and an actual Funeral Director can answer all your questions.