Funeral costs

You may wish to contact a Funeral Director to discuss what arrangements you would like. You are entitled to ask for a free quotation, however you are under no obligation to use a Funeral Director and may wish to undertake the arrangements yourself. We will be pleased to offer advice if this is your preference, or you could visit our page entitled carrying out a burial yourself. Costs may Include:

• removal of the deceased
• limousine / hearse
• notices in local papers
• memorials
• preparation services of the deceased
• church and minister fees
• flowers
• coffin
• cemetery fees
• reception arrangement

Meeting the costs involved

You may be able to apply to the Department of Social Security (DSS) for help in meeting the costs of the funeral. A helpful leaflet is available from the DSS entitled "What to do after a death". You may receive a funeral payment if you, or your partner, are in receipt of various benefits, such as housing benefit, income support etc. The Department of Work and Pensions website contains useful information.

The cost of the funeral is usually met from the assets of the person who has died, but if there are no assets, the cost may be the responsibility of the person making the funeral arrangements.

Useful publications

• What to do after death, DSS leaflet D49 free from the Benefits Agency and Post Office.
• Survey of Funeral Costs, free from the Order of Odd Fellows (0161 832 9361)