Consumer Advice: how much do I need to plan for funeral costs?

Question: I am a widow with adult children and I have very little savings. I often worry about the cost of funeral planning as I don’t want these bills to be a financial burden on my family when the time comes. I would like to be more prepared and it’s been many years since my husband passed, so what are funeral costs these days? Also can you please outline any ways I can plan for the costs in advance?

Answer: The basic cost of funeral expenses in Ireland is now coming in at around €6,000. Unfortunately, for many people, these expenses can create a substantial strain.

By exploring life insurance options, government grants, and pre-arranged savings, you can ensure that your funeral expenses are covered without significant financial stress to your loved ones. First let’s look at the different costs.

Funeral director fees: Funeral directors manage the coordination of most of the services associated with funerals including the cost of the coffin, embalming, transport, and other necessary arrangements. In 2024, these fees typically start at €2,500 but can be as expensive as €8,000 depending on the specific services selected.

Burial costs: The nationwide average price of a burial plot is €1,200 but can be higher in urban areas. This is just for the plot and doesn’t include the cost of a headstone, kerbing, gravel etc.

Cremation costs: Cremation has become popular in recent years especially in urban areas where cemetery space is now very limited. Cremation costs range from about €500 to over €1,100 and prices can increase during weekends.

Additional service fees: These include fees for florists, obituary notices, musicians, and celebrants – the average cost is between €400 and €1,200.

In light of the above, you can see that costs can add up fast so it is important to be aware of the supports available.

Additional Needs Payment: The Additional Needs Payment is designed to help families in financial difficulty. There is no set ‘rate of payment’. Instead, eligibility and payment is dependent on the applicant’s income and financial circumstances. More information is available through your local social welfare office.

The Widowed Partner Grant: This is a once-off payment of €8,000 to widows, widowers or surviving civil partners with dependent children. You need to already qualify for one or more specific social welfare payments. More details are available from your local social welfare office.

Insurance options: You may have life insurance in place but this is only payable after your estate goes to probate. However, funeral expenses need to be paid immediately so funeral insurance is a good option.

It is available from several providers including An Post and ensures the payout of a lump sum on your death so your loved ones will be able to take care of funeral costs. Premiums start at approximately €15 per month.

Section 72 Life Cover is designed to cover inheritance tax or other end-of-life expenses. The proceeds are exempt from tax, making them a particularly efficient tool in succession planning.

Death Benefit Grant: Credit union members may already be contributing to a death benefit scheme without realizing it. Having maintained a minimum balance in your account, your credit union may offer a death benefit ranging from €1,300 to €2,600, depending on the specifics of the credit union’s policy.

Funeral savings accounts: A savings account can help you accumulate funds over time. Some banks offer accounts specifically for funeral expenses, which family can access upon your passing.

Clear communication

Although nobody likes to have this conversation, you’ve made it clear you don’t want your funeral to be a burden on your family. One of the best ways to ensure this doesn’t happen is to have a chat with your children. Ensure that your financial wishes are known and documented, and share your funeral preferences, insurance details and any set-aside funds with family members.

Preparing a will is an important step in ensuring that your estate is distributed according to your wishes and that funeral funds are used appropriately.

Important documents, such as insurance policies, account details, and funeral preferences should be stored in a secure location where family members or executors can access easily.

Taking these steps now will ensure that you leave behind a legacy of security and stability.