The question of cost is often one that people feel uncomfortable asking a funeral director, believing that asking “how much” does not seem dignified. This demonstrates just how much of a ‘distressed purchase’ a funeral is, and how culturally we still feel uneasy about the ritual of dying.

Yet, with tougher economic times hitting all of us, the cost of dying has become a very important one.  Fortunately, the Internet helps people find answers to the question of cost, without having to go through the discomfort of making multiple enquiries by face or telephone to funeral homes.

A burial will cost significantly more than a cremation.  As a very general guide a cremation is likely to cost a quarter of the cost of a burial.  A simple, direct cremation in Canada can start at around $700, whereas a cremation with a service, and extra disbursements (obit notice, viewing, funeral flowers, etc), may cost in the region of $2,500.  I must state that costs between funeral providers can vary tremendously.  In addition, costs can vary somewhat between provinces.  It is HIGHLY recommended that you investigate prices from more than one funeral home.

When it comes to a burial, the question is more “how long is a piece of string?”  There are so many considerations related to the type of casket, casket liner, vault, cemetery plot, grave marker, etc, etc.  In the case of a burial, embalming is an additional cost, plus dressing, a viewing, vehicles required, services of a celebrant and the list goes on.  At a stressful time, all these questions and choices can be so daunting that the bereaved often are so overwhelmed, that the stock answer is “just do a good turnout for her”. 

A “good turnout” in the case of a traditional burial can start at around $3,000 but can quite easily amount to a cost of $15,000. 

If cost IS an important factor in your funeral planning, then I would strongly recommend that you consider the options between burial and cremation.  It helps to have an idea of what your funeral needs are before you contact any funeral providers.  This way you can be in control and ask the right questions.  There are some really good free resources on the web now that outline all the elements that constitute a funeral, be it a burial or cremation.  Being armed with this information will enable you to ask informed questions of a possible funeral director.  Do NOT be afraid to ask prices, all funeral homes by law have to provide you with a general price list.  And DO compare prices for equivalent services from more than one funeral provider.  It can help to ask another family member, friend or associate to make enquiries on your behalf once you have a clear outline of your funeral needs.