How Much Does a Funeral Cost?

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How Much Does a Funeral Cost? It’s difficult to think about money in times of tragedy and loss, however, when anticipating the passing of a loved one, it’s important to consider the upcoming expenses. Being well-prepared for the financial and emotional strain of a funeral will help you and your family endure the difficulty of the event.

How Much Does a Funeral Cost?

According to the National Funeral Directors, the average adult funeral costs $7,323. This includes the prices of embalming, the casket as well as a viewing. It does not include the cost of a cemetery plot or grave marker. Realistically then, the average cost of an adult funeral is somewhere around $9,000.

The following are a list of funeral expenses to consider:

Burial Clothes

Burial Vaults

Clergy

Direct Burial Package

Direct Cremation Package

Embalming Fees

Flowers

Funeral Ceremony Fees

Grave Markers/Monuments

Grave Plot

Graveside Service

Hearse

Viewing or Visitation Fees

Funerals can become quite expensive. It’s especially difficult to try to give an amazing service for someone you loved when money is tight. I’d encourage you to read our article on Inexpensive Funerals posted awhile back. It’s very informative.

While it might seem morbid, planning your own funeral can be incredibly practical for you and your family. Deciding how you want to be buried, where and what the funeral will consist of will help your loved ones make tough choices down the road. Consider whether or not you want to be buried or cremated. If you want a small funeral or a big party.

When my grandmother died a few years back we had to make some big choices as a family. The funeral ended up costing thousands of dollars, however she had put money aside for it. While it was an incredibly emotional event, we had a huge party to celebrate her life in her house. Dozens of people showed up along with a flamenco band and it would have gone on all night had the police not showed up. It was a beautiful celebration, where everyone shared stories about her and you could see how much she was loved.

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I am glad we didn’t have to worry too much about money when it came to her funeral but I feel as though the experience was an exception. It’s intimidating to find out how much funerals actually cost. As a result,  I think, it’s important to anticipate the worst case scenarios. If you have aging parents or grandparents, considering talking to them about what they want and begin putting money aside.

Funerals are an emotional time which is why it’s important to consider the costs. Hopefully, with a thorough understanding and careful planning you won’t have to stress about money when the time comes.

How Much Does a Funeral Cost?

How Much Do Funerals Cost?

How Much Do Funerals Cost?

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5 Responses to “How Much Does a Funeral Cost?”

  1. krantcents

    20. Jun, 2011

    The cost of a funeral is incidental to the emotional upheaval! Along with a will, I believe everyone should make their own funeral arrangements. In this way it is your choice and it can be done in a less emotional time.
    krantcents recently posted..Pay As You Drive InsuranceMy Profile

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  2. Barb Friedberg

    20. Jun, 2011

    Forest, My parents are so planful they have prepaid their funeral expenses. And both my parents and in laws have extra grave sites for us! Guess we’re doing fairly well in the funeral prep area :)
    Barb Friedberg recently posted..3 Quick Personal Finance Tips for Dealing with StressMy Profile

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    • Squirrelers

      21. Jun, 2011

      Wow, Barb. As much as it might seem odd to say this, you guys and your families are doing a great job with funeral planning! This leaves one less thing to worry about for others who are already dealing with emotional distress. Smart thinking.

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  3. Super Frugalette

    23. Jun, 2011

    My grandparents on my dad’s side paid for graves as well. As for my father-in-law, his cremation was $4,500.
    Super Frugalette recently posted..How the Target Debit Card found a home in my wallet…My Profile

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  4. One cannot emphasize the importance of having the necessary insurance so that relatives can pay for your funerals. An unfortunate circumstance if you let this lapse, guess who gets to pay for this in the end.
    karen ho fatt@best fire pits recently posted..California Outdoor Concepts Solano Bar Height Gas Fire Pit Table Review – Customizable and CozyMy Profile

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