20 things Funeral Homes
don’t want you to know
15 things was a very popular post. So it is well worth taking another look and even adding a few more to the list…
- Don’t pay in advance for a funeral – especially if you think it will make things easier. If you want to put money aside, start a separate bank account so that you are in complete control of it and you also get the interest. The main reason Funeral Homes will do this is to “hook” you in.
- Beware of the Funeral Homes advertising low prices. In many cases it is simply a marketing ploy to get customers in the door. Once inside, they can subtly encourage you to spend more.
- You don’t need to be embalmed. Especially if you are having a cremation or burial within a few days. It is just another expense that isn’t really needed in many cases.
- Be wary of these types of hard-sell phrases funeral directors use… “Given your position in the community …,” “I’m sure you want what’s best for your mother,” “Doing this or that will really honour your dad,” “You would agree that your mum deserves the best.”
- Be cautious of Funeral Homes who have “professional fees”. They can cost hundreds of dollars and it truly means nothing.
- If you plan to scatter ashes, you do not need to buy a special scattering urn that can cost over $50. Use the urn you get from the crematorium. And stand up wind.
- You are not obligated to have a funeral service or place a death notice in the newspaper.
- You can have a funeral service (often called memorial) without the body present and you can have it anywhere. There are many other options that may suit you much better than what a funeral home offer.
- You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a very meaningful funeral. The amount you spend does not represent how much you loved the person.
- Coffins are either burnt or buried so buying an expensive one is simply a way for them to make more money.
- Shop around and compare prices at local funeral homes. Know exactly what the price covers and does not cover. The cheapest option is not always the best for you.
- Just because a funeral director says, “This is the way a funeral is usually done,” doesn’t mean you have to do the same thing. Do what is right for you.
- Organising a funeral can be stressful and confusing. It is common for funeral homes to have many things for families to make decisions on. It is very easy to feel overwhelmed and to spend more than planned.
- Bring someone with you when you visit a Funeral Home for support.
- It is possible to have a dignified and respectful funeral without spending a lot of money.
- Convenience for the Funeral Home does not mean savings for you. For example having refreshments at their chapel after a service.
- Remember that most Funeral Homes can have high staff and owner turnover rates. Many are now owned by multi-national companies. Things may be quite different from before.
- Never let anyone pressure you into making decisions you are uncomfortable with. Take your time, and only say yes when you are ready.
- Remember that funeral homes are a business and are there to make money. They are friendly, but they are not your friend or your family. Be careful of appearances
- There are many things you could plan and carry out on your own to honour your loved one without paying for the services of a Funeral Home.
