etiquette for planning a funeral

Etiquette for the Surviving Family: Planning the Funeral

Arranging the Funeral Now that Your Loved One Has Died A funeral is a formal service of remembrance with the body present, in either a closed or open casket. Your funeral director or clergy can advise you on many aspects of etiquette relating to the actual funeral service. If your loved one hasn’t preplanned, you will need to make a number of decisions:


Green Funeral Preplanning

Considerations in Pre-Planning a Green Funeral

Many people, not wanting to burden their families with difficult decisions during an already difficult time, opt to pre-plan their funerals. Because green burials are a relatively new trend in the United States, you may not know what green options are available. With these pointers, you can plan a funeral that is natural, free of toxic chemicals, and minimizes your environmental impact.



Your Advisor’s Guide to End-of-Life Planning is on the Way!

Thank you for requesting the Advisor’s Guide to End-of-Life Planning. We appreciate your interest in helping families navigate one of life’s most important decisions. A download link has been sent to the email address you provided. Please check your inbox — it should arrive within the next few minutes. Didn’t receive it? About your Guide: […]


What is the cheapest type of funeral?

The least expensive option is direct cremation — no viewing, no ceremony, remains delivered directly to the family. Nationally, direct cremation averages $1,000–$2,500. A graveside service or simple memorial service after cremation can be arranged for $3,500–$6,000. A no-frills traditional funeral with a casket present typically starts around $6,000–$7,000 (not including cemetery costs). For detailed […]


Is it cheaper to plan a funeral in advance?

Often, yes. Prepaying can lock in today’s prices, protecting against inflation. Even without prepaying, planning ahead gives you time to compare costs and make thoughtful choices rather than rushed ones.


April 2025: Help Paying For a Funeral

April 2025 Getting Help Paying for a Funeral The sudden loss of a loved one can be an overwhelming experience–particularly if the death is unexpected. When finances are tight, the burden can feel even heavier. We get it. Funerals can be expensive, often costing thousands of dollars. Once you overcome the sticker shock and begin […]


Emotional Benefits of End of Life Planning

The Emotional Benefits of End of Life Planning

How Being Prepared Brings Peace of Mind End-of-life planning is often seen as a practical task, like organizing documents, stating your wishes, and making things easier for your family. But being prepared offers emotional benefits that go far beyond paperwork. When you take time to consider your choices and share them clearly, you give yourself […]


End of Life Planning

End of Life Planning: 5 Things to Tell Your Family

The essential details your loved ones need for a smoother end-of-life transition Here’s a difficult truth: most people assume their family knows more than they actually do. In reality, many families are left searching for answers during one of the most stressful times of their lives. Not because they weren’t close—but because end-of-life planning conversations […]


Request Our Funeral Arrangements Checklist

When someone you love dies, there are many important decisions to make in a very short time. This checklist is designed to help you take things one step at a time so you can stay organized and focus on what matters most. It walks you through the first calls you may need to make and […]


How Much Will Your Funeral Cost? Try Our QuickPlan to Find Out.