Why Planning for Funeral Costs Early Can Help Ease Future Burdens

Funeral costs can be a big financial burden for a family. The average cost of a simple funeral in the UK is around £4,000-£5,000. While it’s something many of us prefer not to think about, planning ahead for funeral expenses can help prevent additional stress for your loved ones.

Fortunately, support is available to help with funeral expenses. Whether you’re receiving state benefits, a pensioner or part of a specific group, assistance may be available to ease the financial strain. A prepaid funeral plan can offer an invaluable solution for those looking to ensure peace of mind.

In this blog post, we’ll explain why planning for funeral costs early is important, the benefits of prepaid funeral plans, and how they help alleviate the financial pressure during difficult times.

How Much Do Funerals Cost?

In the UK, funeral costs can vary depending on the type of service, location and specific arrangements you choose. The cost of a funeral has been rising in recent years, with many families now facing a bill of several thousand pounds.

According to SunLife, the average cost of a basic funeral is around £4,000-£5,000, although this can easily increase with additional services such as flowers, limousines or more elaborate arrangements.

The two main types of funerals people choose are:

• Traditional funerals: this often involves a full ceremony, a coffin, a hearse, and sometimes a wake or other after-funeral service.
• Direct cremations: this is a simpler and more affordable option where the body is cremated without a service and the ashes are returned to the family.

The Benefits of Prepaid Funeral Plans

While government and charitable support are helpful, they may not fully cover the funeral costs or meet your family’s needs. This is where a prepaid funeral plan comes in.

Golden Leaves prepaid funeral plans are designed to give families peace of mind. With our plans, you can:

• Lock in funeral costs at today’s prices, avoiding future price hikes
• Ensure your family won’t be financially burdened
• Choose the level of service you want, from a traditional funeral to a direct cremation
• Provide flexibility in how the funeral is arranged, according to your wishes

By planning ahead, you give your family the gift of certainty and relieve them from the financial and emotional strain of arranging a funeral in a short time.

Can You Get Help with Funeral Costs?

There are several ways you can get help with funeral costs in the UK, especially if you are on a low income, receiving state benefits or facing financial hardship. The type of help available often depends on your specific circumstances, such as your income, benefits status, or whether you’re part of a certain group that qualifies for additional support.

Does Government Help with Funeral Costs?

One of the main forms of assistance provided by the government is Funeral Expenses Payment (also called Funeral Payment), which is available to those receiving certain state benefits or on a low income. This one-off payment can help cover funeral costs such as:

• The funeral director’s fees
• Burial or cremation costs
• Some transportation expenses

If you are receiving Universal Credit, Pension Credit or other qualifying benefits, you may be able to apply for Funeral Expenses Payment. However, this payment may not cover the entire funeral costs, and there may be a cap on the amount available.

Can I Get Help with Funeral Costs on Universal Credit?

If you’re claiming Universal Credit, you may still be eligible for Funeral Expenses Payment. Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit, so eligibility depends on your income and savings, as well as your specific circumstances.

If you are eligible, applying for a Funeral Expenses Payment is like that for other benefits claimants. It’s important to note that there is a deadline for claiming: you must apply for assistance within six months of the funeral date.

While the Funeral Expenses Payment may help cover some of the costs, it’s essential to check how much you are entitled to based on your specific situation. The amount can vary, and there may be certain exclusions or caps on what is covered.

Can Pensioners Get Help with Funeral Costs?

Pensioners who are struggling with funeral expenses can apply for the Funeral Expenses Payment, which is also available to those on a low pension. It’s important to check your eligibility and apply as soon as possible, as there are deadlines for submitting applications for government support.

Additionally, if you are a pensioner and don’t qualify for government aid, there are other avenues such as charitable support that may help.

Are There Any Charities That Help with Funeral Costs?

Several charities in the UK provide financial assistance for funeral costs:

• The SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association) helps families of current and former military personnel and may offer financial help to cover funeral expenses.
• Turn2us provides access to financial support for people facing financial hardship. It has a search tool that helps identify available grants and benefits, including those that may help with funeral costs.
• The Royal British Legion supports members of the armed forces and their families, which may include financial assistance for funeral costs.
• Local charities, community groups and religious organisations may also provide funeral assistance to people in need.

Charities often have specific eligibility criteria, such as having served in the armed forces or having limited financial resources. It’s worth researching local and national charities that may assist with funeral costs based on your circumstances.

How to Get Help with Funeral Costs

To get help with funeral costs, it’s important to understand all the options available. Whether you qualify for Funeral Expenses Payment, need support, or decide to plan ahead with a prepaid funeral plan

At Golden Leaves, we understand the importance of planning ahead for funeral expenses. Our prepaid funeral plans offer peace of mind by locking in funeral costs at today’s prices, ensuring that your loved ones are not left with the financial burden of funeral costs when the time comes.

If you’re looking for more information or need help arranging a funeral plan that fits your needs, get in touch with us today by calling 0800 85 44 48 or request a callback.