Viaggio in Islanda

The average cost for a Traditional Funeral varies widely and can be anywhere from $6,000 to upward of $15,000 or more. According to the U.S Federal Trade Commission the (FTC) "Funerals rank among the most expensive purchases many consumers will ever make. A Traditional Funeral, including a casket and vault, costs about $6,000, although "extras" like flowers, obituary notices, acknowledgment cards or limousines can add thousands of dollars to the bottom line. Many funerals run well over $10,000." This is likely to cause shock and add stress to anyone planning for an unexpected loss. There are methods of lowering costs if you speak with your Funeral home director about the budget you are working with they can find many ways to cut costs. Many Funeral homes now offer Casket rental and other cost effective alternatives. There is no need to put yourself in debt you can have a beautiful Funeral that honors your loved one without spending more then you can afford or need to.

The Funeral Rule: Protection For Survivors

The Funeral Rule is a collection of mandates and rights enforced by the FTC. It holds that:

* You have the right to choose the funeral goods and services you want (with some exceptions)
* The funeral provider must state this right in writing on the general price list
* If state or local law requires you to buy any particular item, the funeral provider must disclose it on the price list, with a reference to the specific law
* The funeral provider may not refuse, or charge a fee, to handle a casket you bought elsewhere
* A funeral provider that offers cremations must make alternative containers available

Typical Funeral Expenses

According to the FTC. Funerals can be broken into three basic categories:

1. Basic services fee for the funeral director and staff

The Funeral Rule allows funeral providers to charge a basic services fee that customers cannot decline to pay. The basic services fee includes services that are common to all funerals, regardless of the specific arrangement. These include funeral planning, securing the necessary permits and copies of death certificates, preparing the notices, sheltering the remains, and coordinating the arrangements with the cemetery, crematory or other third parties. The fee does not include charges for optional services or merchandise.

2. Charges for other services and merchandise

These are costs for optional goods and services such as transporting the remains; embalming and other preparation; use of the funeral home for the viewing, ceremony or memorial service; use of equipment and staff for a graveside service; use of a hearse or limousine; a casket, outer burial container or alternate container; and cremation or interment.

3. Cash advances

These are fees charged by the funeral home for goods and services it buys from outside vendors on your behalf, including flowers, obituary notices, pallbearers, officiating clergy, and organists and soloists. Some funeral providers charge you their cost for the items they buy on your behalf. Others add a service fee to their cost. The Funeral Rule requires those who charge an extra fee to disclose that fact in writing, although it doesn't require them to specify the amount of their markup. The Rule also requires funeral providers to tell you if there are refunds, discounts or rebates from the supplier on any cash advance item.

Tips on Funeral Planning

• Start by making a budget and sticking to it.
• Do your research browse our website and read reviews on potential Funeral homes select one that is willing to work with you and has compassion.
• Ask for an itemized checklist so you can breakdown what each thing is going to cost you.
• Do not be pressured to purchase more then you need.
• Plan ahead when ever possible.
• Keep in mind the little things really add up.

The Bottom Line

You can plan a beautiful Funeral that embodies your loved ones style and personality without spending an extravagant amount of money.