Average Cost of a Funeral
Funerals range in expense from $7,000 to $12,000 on average.
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Funeral Expenses
Basic services fee. All funeral homes will charge you a non-declinable basic services fee. This covers the standard services that the funeral home provides, which include funeral planning, securing permits, securing copies of the death certificates, preparing notices, sheltering the remains, and coordinating with the cemetery or crematory.
Burial plot. You may want to select your burial plot long in advance to secure space next to your loved ones.
Casket. The casket is the most expensive item you will need to purchase for the funeral. If you plan on a burial, you will need to purchase one; if you plan on cremation, you may be able to rent one from the funeral home for the funeral service or viewing. Price is dependent on the material and quality of the casket. You have the right to choose your own casket from a third party vendor instead of using one offered by the funeral home.
Embalming/Preparation. Embalming, dressing, grooming, and cosmetics will all come with additional costs and are more for vanity and presentation to create a dignified ceremony.
Flowers. Funeral flowers add a reverent touch to the service. You may ask in the obituary for flowers to be sent to the funeral home as a memorial.
Grave liner/Vault. Most cemeteries will require you to use a grave liner or vault to prevent collapse.
Music. Music adds to the atmosphere of the service.
Pamphlets and printed materials. Most services include memorial cards or pamphlets. You will also need to pay a small fee to run an obituary in the local paper.
Photographs/Videos. Presenting images of the loved one is a great way to remember them.
Staffing. In addition to the basic services fee, the funeral home will charge a fee for staffing the venue during your services.
Transportation. Transportation of the remains along with limos for the family add to the cost.
National Average Funeral Costs
You can expect the funeral and burial to cost between $7,000 and $12,000 with an average of around $9,000. The costs depend on where you live, the funeral home you use, the cost of your casket and burial plot, where you purchase your goods, and which service choices you make.
Planning for Funeral Costs
Funerals require cash advances for goods and services purchased from a third party vendor. On top of the fact that these costs can sometimes come without warning, funeral homes put a lot of pressure on your family and loved ones to pay a significant amount of money up front. You can ease the burden on your loved ones by setting aside money for your final expenses.
Planning Your Funeral
Make sure your service will be the memorial you wish for. We can advise you and your family to help you evaluate all of your options and make informed decisions when planning your final arrangements.
Legacy and end of life planning are our specialty at Hamil Legacy. Contact us today to learn more about the services we provide.