Funeral Service Providers: Tips on Shopping

The responsibility of giving a dignified funeral to a loved one is the toughest thing one can bear. Everything has to be done fast; you won’t have time even to grieve for the loss of your dear one. Still, there is no choice; someone has to do the job. The most difficult part of all this is to locate a reliable funeral service provider. Here are some suggestions to help you in this respect.

Tips to save money on funeral service providers

Shopping for a funeral service is not as difficult as it may appear. Understanding some basic facts would do a lot.

1. Compare prices

The advice may sound repetitive. But, the fact is that price varies greatly among funeral services. Do an online search and choose at least two service providers. Contact them on phone and discuss your requirements. Don’t sacrifice your rights; you can provide a casket if you want. You can also shop in advance if you are convinced that the final journey for your dear one would not take long. This will make things a lot easier.

2. Stay safe from impulsive purchases

It is true that you are preparing the body of your dear one for the final journey. But, this does not mean that you should go for the most expensive services or items available in the market. In fact, going for a cremation or a green funeral will be more than enough. Remember, it is not how much you spend that matters, but your feelings towards the departed soul. Enquire among friends; there are many things you can do to make your loved one immortal in your mind.

3. Request a general price list

Know that you have the right to get a general price list upon request. You can request it on phone or in person. Whatever is the mode of contact, the service provider should answer all your queries. You can expect detailed information on the services and the items available and their cost.

4. Embalming is not required

Some funeral services may tell you that embalming is a must as per the laws in your State. Do not give in to the demand. It is not a must in most of the States in the US. There may be exceptions. The best thing to do is to conduct your own research and understand your legal obligations. If at all embalming is performed without your permission, you are not required to pay the fees. You should also get a written statement on the total cost.

5. Spend smartly

Opt for eco-friendly containers instead of the expensive caskets. If you decide to go for cremation, the funeral service is legally obliged to inform you on the choices available. Limiting the hours allowed for viewing and dressing in ordinary clothes too would save huge. The law stays silent with regard to dressing a body for the funeral. Keep these points in mind; funeral service providers will accept all your demands.

Call Old Mission San Luis Cemetery at (760) 231-8445, ext. 133 and arrange meeting with funeral director. More information on his cemetery find at this link.

Todd Dawson Is a freelance writer