At Beeston Shenton, we deal with customers who are considering their plans after their passing every day. Our wills and probate team will handle all matters which relate to a person dying. But, with the cost of living increasing, many of our customers have asked used questions regarding their funerals, and the costs involved. As this is something many people note in their Will.
Cost of a UK funeral VS the cost of dying
The cost of a funeral in the UK has decreased for the second year in a row, but the cost of ‘dying’ has increased. This ‘cost of dying’ refers to the whole amount spent when a person dies So this could include the funeral, professional fees, and other costs like a wake. However, the cost of direct cremation has increased.
The 2023 Cost of Dying Report by SunLife reveals that the average cost of a funeral in the UK decreased by 2.5% to £3,953 in 2022. With a burial still remaining the most expensive option, and cremations coming in second. However, in 2022, 57% of funerals were cremations, 25% were burials and 18% were direct cremations.
What does a funeral cost include?
Normally, the cost of a basic funeral includes:
- Burial fees
- Or, cremation fees
- Doctors fees
- Funeral directors fees
- Minister or celebrant fees
Cost of dying in the UK
As per the SunLife 2023 report, the cost of dying in the UK will total £9,200. This figure takes into account various expenses such as funeral expenses, professional fees, and send-off fees (which may include items such as memorials, deceased estate notices, flowers, and catering for the wake). This is an increase of 3.8% in 2021. When the average cost of dying was £8,864.
Rising costs
There are several factors that contribute to the rising cost of dying in the UK. One of the main factors is inflation, which affects the cost of everything from the funeral director’s fees to the cost of burial plots and cremation services. Another factor is the increasing demand for funeral services, which has led to a rise in the price of funeral-related products and services.
Planning for a funeral
At Beeston Shenton, we understand that the cost of a funeral can be a significant burden for many families, especially those who are already struggling financially. That is why we always recommend that our clients plan ahead and consider the options available to them for paying for their funeral expenses.
One option for paying for funeral expenses is to purchase a funeral plan. A funeral plan is a type of insurance policy that covers the cost of a funeral. By purchasing a funeral plan, you can ensure that your loved ones will not have to bear the financial burden of your funeral expenses when you pass away.
Another option for paying for funeral expenses is to use the money from your estate. If you have savings, investments, or other assets, you can leave instructions in your will for these assets to be used to cover your funeral expenses. However, it is important to note that this option may not be suitable for everyone, as your estate may be subject to inheritance tax, which could significantly reduce the amount of money available to pay for your funeral.
Finally, you can also consider taking out a funeral loan. A funeral loan is a type of personal loan that is specifically designed to cover the cost of a funeral. With a funeral loan, you can spread the cost of your funeral over several years, which can make it more affordable for your loved ones.
At Beeston Shenton, we recommend that our clients explore all of these options for paying for their funeral expenses and choose the option that is best suited to their individual needs and circumstances.
Contact Us
The cost of dying in the UK is rising, and it’s important that individuals plan for this cost before they pass away. Noting your desired funeral plans in your will is a good way to inform your family of your wishes. If you’d like to speak to a solicitor about creating a will, please get in touch with Beeston Shenton. Call us on 01782 662424 or email us at info@beestonshenton.co.uk
