Most funerals are arranged by the nearest and dearest, relatives or by a close friend. No-one really wants to arrange a funeral but it does help to have an understanding of what is involved in funeral arrangements and the common problems that may occur.
The Deceased may have left instructions and details concerning the type of funeral, cremation or burial they would want. There is no legal obligation for those instructions to be followed, but normally they are. If the Deceased did not leave a Will, then the following checklist may assist in making the arrangements;
- Choose a funeral director.
- Choose between burial and cremation.
- Choose a burial site or crematorium.
- Choose the location of the service.
- Choose whether to arrange family viewing.
- Plan and write an obituary.
- Transportation for those attending the funeral.
- Send invitations to family and friends.
Most funerals are arranged through a Funeral Director. If you arrange the funeral, you would be responsible for the cost of the funeral. Make sure you read carefully any contract prepared and if you have any queries then ask the funeral director to explain further prior to the signing of any contract.
Some funeral directors might ask for a deposit before making the funeral arrangements. You might be offered a discount if you pay for the funeral promptly. They may request 50% deposit to be paid.
Providing the deceased held sufficient funds in a bank account prior to death, then it would be possible to seek the release of the funeral fees from that account, subject to the required documentation being provided.
If there are no relatives then the Local Authority will arrange a simple funeral to take place.
If Fisher Jones Greenwood can assist you in the planning of your future and the drafting of your Will, then please contact us on 01206 700113 or email [email protected] to arrange a mutually convenient appointment.
Find out more about what to do when someones dies in our information sheet here.