Richard Laycock | Insurance expert
Australia’s large aging population means that we are living for longer than ever before. This not only gives us ample time to enjoy life, but it also means, whether we like it or not, that we have more time to plan for our funerals. However, research from finder.com.au, which surveyed 2005 people, found that 60% of Aussies are not planning for their funeral at all before they die. Rather, our families are left to foot the bill, which can cost anywhere between $4,000 and $15,000.
Planning your funeral before you die can alleviate the financial burden that would otherwise fall to your family members during a very emotional time. Here are some tips on how to lower the costs of your funeral.
Save for your funeral
Setting money aside to pay for your funeral is the simplest way to ensure that your family has enough to cover the costs. Keep this money in a savings account that is separate from your everyday account. It is also important to ensure that your beneficiaries are aware of this account so that they can access the money upon your death.
Consider different payment methods
You may want to select and pay for a funeral plan or funeral insurance before you die. Funeral plans are offered by funeral directors in a variety of packages. They allow you to pick your basic funeral arrangements and pay one fixed price, either up front or in installments. It’s important to shop around and compare the different packages available before making your decision.
Funeral insurance allows you to choose the amount that you’re covered for, which will be given to your beneficiary when you die. However, it’s important to remember that you will also need to pay monthly or yearly premiums for this insurance, which can be expensive. Make sure you weigh up the cost of funeral insurance with your other options.
Cut down on unnecessary extras
While there are some absolute necessities to have at a funeral, there are also many unnecessary extras that you can avoid. For example, instead of having an expensive flower arrangement, you may dress the coffin with a single rose or a framed photo. You may also arrange for a family member to drive the coffin to the ceremony, rather than paying for a funeral car. Social media also makes the cost of placing a death notice in the newspaper almost completely unnecessary. Be frugal and realistic about what you really need to include at your funeral.
The increasing cost of living in Australia unfortunately seems to be extending to those passed away as well. This increased cost of dying means that it’s important to take steps today to minimise the costs that your loved ones will have to face in the near or distant future.
About eziFunerals
eziFunerals is a free consumer advocacy and funeral planning platform that supports individuals and families cope with end of life decisions, death and funerals. We are an independent, Australian-owned and operated company, and are not a subsidiary of any other corporation. We are not part of any other funeral company. Founded by consumers frustrated by how difficult it was to get independent information, eziFunerals supports consumers plan a funeral, compare prices and select the right funeral director anywhere, anytime.
