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.



Why do people plan their funerals in advance?

Why People Plan Their Funerals in Advance

Most people who plan their own funeral in advance say the same thing: it was never really about themselves. It was about not wanting their kids to stand in that room someday, guessing.




Getting comfortable with planning ahead

Getting Comfortable with Planning Ahead

Most people wait to plan until a crisis forces their hand. Here's why the calmest planners are the ones who start when nothing's wrong — and how to begin without writing a single legal document.


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.


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