Funeral Costs and Affordability - What to Expect with Funeral Homes in Tennessee
The final send-off for a deceased loved one doesn't have to cost a lot of money and Tennessee funeral homes can help you figure out your options. How much you spend for a funeral is not a reflection of how much you cared about the deceased. What is important is being able to have family and friends come together to say goodbye to the deceased as well as share in the grieving process. For some people, money is no object but the reality is that many people are careful with finances these days and funeral homes in Tennessee can help you plan a funeral without going into debt.
Fees to Expect with Tennessee Funeral Homes' Funeral Arrangements
One of the most basic funeral rules that you can find in all states is the requirement of issuing a Statement of Funeral Goods and Services. Funeral homes in Tennessee are required to give this to you once you have chosen all of the elements you want for a loved one's funeral. Some of the basic service fees you might find on this statement include funeral planning, securing permits need for burial or cremation, application for the death certificate, housing the deceased until the service and preparing death notices or the obituary. The basic service fees charged by Tennessee funeral homes do not necessarily list charges for any merchandise or alternative services you may choose.
Other Costs Funeral Homes in Tennessee May Charge
There are optional goods and services that may also add to your expenses of a funeral. Transportation of the deceased, embalming and other preparation of the body may be required. Tennessee funeral homes may also charge for the use of their premises for any public viewing of the deceased as well as a memorial or funeral service. Any equipment use, contract labor for preparing a gravesite, burial container and the use of a hearse or limousine are additional expenses that may be incurred.
Funeral homes in Tennessee may also pass along charges for things that they paid for on your behalf from outside vendors. These costs may include flowers, organists, a clergy officiate and other incidental funeral expenses. The Statement of Funeral Goods and Services should have all fees included which you must then sign to confirm that you are aware and responsible for them. If there are any rebates or discounts from third party vendors available, this statement should reflect them too.
Payment Options Tennessee Funeral Homes Can Help With
A meaningful, heartfelt funeral does not need to cost more than your family can afford. It doesn't matter whether you spend $700 or $5,000; your loved one will still be dead. A funeral is simply a means for family and friends to come together in celebration of the life lived by the deceased. It is your responsibility to ultimately choose a funeral that is within your monetary means. Funeral homes in Tennessee do not have to provide a payment plan where you can pay in installments. In fact, many do not. However, what they can do is help you explore different options that perhaps you can take advantage of.
If your deceased loved one was part of a social welfare program, there may be government money that could subsidize a funeral or at least the final disposition, whether it is a burial or cremation. Most states don't have official programs for this; rather, any financial help is likely at a local city or county level. Tennessee funeral homes may also know of certain charities or religious entities in the area that might help with some expenses. Keep in mind that if there is any outside help available, it will likely not cover any extras such as a public viewing or service, just final disposition. You could always schedule a memorial service at a later date, when you can afford to pay for it on your own.
Funeral Homes in Tennessee Can Work with Insurance Companies
When the deceased had a life insurance policy, sometimes the pay-out can cover funeral expenses. Of course, any type of bureaucracy takes time. However, Tennessee funeral homes can talk with the insurance company to verify coverage and a timetable when the beneficiaries of the deceased will receive the benefits. Many funeral establishments can work with you in situations like these.
Other Ways to Fund a Funeral
Funeral homes in Tennessee may advise you on alternative methods for funding a funeral. For instance, if the deceased was a member of a civic or service organization such as a rotary club or Moose Lodge, these entities may have funeral assistance options that can help. Veterans may also get some benefits from the government such as free interment at certain national or state cemeteries in addition to grave markers. Tennessee funeral homes can advise you if your deceased loved one served honorably in the military.
While it is not the best way to pay for a funeral, you could choose to use a credit card to pay for it. However, unless you have a special introductory rate of 0% and can pay off the expenses within a certain span of time, you can count on paying a high rate of interest until the credit card is paid off. Funeral homes in Tennessee do accept credit cards but try to think of alternate means of paying for your loved one's funeral if possible.