1.8 people die every second. That number might not seem like much but when you look at how many seconds there are in the year, we’re talking over 55 million deaths.
Sooner or later, death is going to be something that touches your life indirectly in the way of a loved one passing away. When that happens, as you grieve, you’re going to be put under further stress when you see how expensive funerals can be.
Fortunately, there are simple strategies that you can implement in order to bring down the cost of funerals.
After reading our tips below, you’ll be more prepared to tackle what’s to come when it does.
1. Opt for Cremation
Many people don’t like the idea of having their body trapped in a dark hole until the end of time. Some prefer that their body be cremated and their remains are spread in a place that they love.
If this is your loved one’s preference, that’s great news for you. You can find out more about the thousands of dollars that getting cremated can save you given that burial services and caskets are not required.
2. Decline Gasketed Caskets
A gasketed casket is one that’s sealed air-tight in order to prevent the elements from affecting your loved one’s body post-burial. This special form of burial usually costs under $20.00 to provide but up-charges for the service can sometimes be as high as $800.00.
There’s nothing wrong with a non-sealed casket. Bodily decomposition is natural.
Decline this service and save money.
3. Purchase Your Casket/Urn From a Third Party
Doing all of your funeral shopping with your funeral home is a huge mistake. They’re in the business of up-charging.
Instead, buy your loved one’s urn/casket from a reputable 3rd party seller that creates quality funeral paraphernalia at a fraction of the cost.
4. Skip Embalming
Embalming your loved one can keep their body looking fresh for a number of days. This is a good path to go down if you’re planning a multi-day service with an open casket.
Unfortunately, though, embalming can be rather pricey. Furthermore, for funerals that are non-open-casket/ones that have quick turnarounds, embalming may not be necessary.
Therefore, opting for refrigeration instead of embalming is a great, low-impact way to reduce the cost of funerals.
5. Donate to Science
This suggestion certainly isn’t for everyone. For the adventurous spirit, however, having their body donated to science might be seen as favorable.
When you donate a loved one’s body with their permission, all costs associated with bodily transit are paid for and you may end up spending nothing out of pocket.
Wrapping Up Simple Tips That Reduce the Steep Cost of Funerals
The cost of funerals can add insult to injury after somebody you know passes away. To keep costs in check as you navigate these trying times, we recommend exercising our tips above.
For more unconventional advice on how to navigate all of life’s curious questions, check out more of our content on Let’s Be Game Changers now.