Elder Law Group Blog

How to Plan for Future Funeral Costs

Jan 2, 2017 | News

No one really wants to think about funeral expenses, but given the fact that funerals are quite expensive, you need to be prepared to fund these costs should the unthinkable occur. Most people don’t realize the extent of funeral costs, and, as a result, leave their loved ones scrambling to fund their funerals.
Funeral costs do vary widely from one region of the country to the next, as well as from one funeral home to another. Your costs also depend upon the choices that you make in planning a funeral. However, according to the National Funeral Directors Association, here are some of the common average costs that you will incur when arranging a funeral:

  • Professional service fee – $2,000
  • Transfer of remains – $310
  • Embalming – $695
  • Hairdressing and cosmetics – $250
  • Viewing – $420
  • Funeral – $495
  • Metal casket – $2,395
  • Funeral transportation – $461
  • Printed programs and memorial guest book – $155

In addition to these basic expenses, you are likely to incur additional related costs, such as flowers ($200-$400), newspaper obituary fee ($100-$600), clergy honorarium ($200-$300), and extra copies of the death certificate ($5-$35 per copy). These expenses also don’t include the burial plot or mausoleum fee, the vault or grave liner that most cemeteries require, the opening and closing of the grave, and the gravestone, which, collectively, can range from $3,000-$7,000. These costs can quickly add up to an average $11,000 per funeral.
Preplanning your funeral is one way to ensure that you wishes carried out after your death, and that your loved ones will not be stuck with a completely unexpected, very large expense. You cannot underestimate the importance of planning for your financial future. Having a clear plan to address all potential contingencies can relieve stress, save money, and leave less of a burden on your loved ones. At the Elder Law Group PLLC we are experienced Tri-Cities asset protection lawyers who know Washington law and know how to help you draft a comprehensive estate and Long-Term Care plan that addresses all aspects of your situation in later life. Call our office today at 509.468.0551 and learn how our attorneys can help ensure that you have a plan in place to meet all of your end-of-life needs and satisfy any concerns that you may have.

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