It might be hard to talk about and make people feel bad to plan for the end of life, but doing so ahead of time can help you and your family feel better. One of the best things you can do to get ready is to learn about the costs of funerals and think about getting a plan that you pay for in advance. This book gives you all the important information you need to make smart choices about getting ready.
The Rising Costs of Funerals
Over the years, funeral costs have gone up because of things like inflation, higher land prices, and higher service fees. A funeral in Australia could cost anywhere from $4,000 to $15,000, depending on the choices made. Most of the time, these fees cover:
- Paying for professional services like planning the funeral, filling out paperwork, and so on
- Casket or coffin
- Renting a place to live and eat
- Transportation (hearse and cars for the family)
- Costs for burial or cremation
- Headstone or urn
- Things that are special to you, like flowers, music, and more
You need to know that you can’t avoid paying for even the most basic service. These costs can add up quickly and put a strain on the finances of those who are grieving if you don’t plan ahead.
What does it mean to have a funeral plan that you pay for ahead of time?
With a pre-paid funeral plan, you can plan and pay for your funeral ahead of time. This locks in the prices for services tomorrow. These contracts with a funeral home are legally binding and make sure that your wishes are followed and that your family doesn’t have to pay for something they didn’t expect.
With a pre-paid funeral plan, you can do the following:
- Choose the type of service you want: basic, cultural, or religious.
- You can choose whether you want to be buried or burned.
- Pick out specific things like music, readings, or locations for the event.
- Pay all at once or make payments over time.
The main benefits of pre-paid funeral plans
Costs of Protection
You know how much it will cost when you pay in advance, which is one of the best things about it. After you pay for your plan, your family won’t have to worry about funeral costs going up in the future.
Taking the money stress off of your loved ones
Losing a family member is hard on the heart. You won’t have to worry about getting money quickly or making hard choices when you’re grieving if you pay for your funeral in advance.
Makes sure that what you want is done
Your loved ones might feel better knowing that they are following your last wishes exactly as you wanted them to.
Payment choices that are easy to change
Most providers let you pay in full or in installments, which makes it easy for people with different financial situations to get the service.
No insurance premiums that keep going up
Funeral insurance requires regular payments and may end up costing more than the funeral itself. A pre-paid plan, on the other hand, has a set cost and can’t be cancelled if you miss a payment.
Things to think about before you choose a plan
Reputation of the provider: Choose a funeral home that is registered and follows the rules and norms of the business in your area that people know and trust.
Information in the contract: Look at the plan to see what’s included, since some things or services may cost more.
Portability: If you move to a different state or change your mind, ask if you can move your plan to another provider.
Final Thoughts
It’s not easy to talk about planning for the end of life, but it’s smart and kind to find out how much funerals cost and how to set up a pre-paid funeral. It helps you plan your last goodbye and helps your family through one of the hardest times in their lives.
It’s time to think about your options and make a plan that works for you and your loved one, whether you’re doing it for yourself or for someone else. Now is the time to call your local funeral home and start the conversation.
