After a loss, it can be difficult to know what questions you should ask or where to even begin. The tips below take the guesswork out of choosing a funeral home and offer ways to help make the process easier for those navigating their first death notification services. We hope this information is helpful.
The moment death occurs in a family, everyone is frightened and in a rush to find whatever they need: phone numbers, burial instructions, and survivors’ contacts. The funeral home you select can provide great support during this hard time.
Choosing the right one may not be easy, but we’re here to help through each step of the process.
How do I choose the right funeral home?
There are several factors to consider when choosing a funeral home. When reviewing funeral homes, start by looking at their pre-need contract and price list because these should give you an idea of how much their services will cost and what they offer.
It’s important to find a funeral home that can accommodate your needs and the specific funeral arrangements you desire. Here are a few more tips on how to choose a funeral home:
1) Ask family and friends for recommendations. Let them know what kind of arrangement you’re looking for (traditional, cremation, etc.) and ask if they can recommend any local funeral homes that would be able to meet your needs.
2) Look for a funeral home that has been around for many years, as they will have more experience helping families with pre-planning and planning funerals. A local funeral home can offer guidance through this tough time from start to finish.
3) Request a consultation in person, by phone, or via email. Some funeral homes will do their best to give you a tour of the facility and discuss their services once you contact them. The consultation is your opportunity to ask questions and find out about pricing for their services, including casket prices, burial costs, and cremation services.
4) Request an itemized price list, including fees for everything from direct cremation costs to the use of their facilities. Some funeral homes will also include merchandise prices, which are extra items you can purchase to personalize a loved one’s memorial service or burial.
5) Meet with the funeral director again to discuss specific items such as personalization and whether they require you to obtain a death certificate (required by many locations for cremation services). Note: You may want to ask about obtaining the death certificate, as your funeral home will likely need one before proceeding with cremation or burial. If you choose to use an attorney or another individual to obtain the certificate, it may cost you more.
In conclusion, picking the right funeral home is an important decision. We hope the tips above help you choose the perfect one for your needs.