Funerals are easily among the oldest ceremonies known to man. Since ancient times, cultures all across the world have had some method of celebrating the life span of a deceased individual. Not surprisingly, funerals are big business, even today, and institutions that provide advice about funeral planning are available everywhere. Funeral Home Services is influenced for some reason by religious and cultural traditions, however in a great deal of cases budget is what decides the sort of funeral a deceased person will have. Over the years, various kinds of funerals have naturally emerged, each one for a different sized budget.

Types of Funeral

All funerals can be classified as one of three general types, no matter cultural or religious factors: full-service funerals, direct burials, and direct cremation. Each one typically costs less than the last, and most funeral homes can provide assistance with all three types.

Full-service Funerals - This kind is the most common and it is referred to as a "standard" funeral by many providers. It offers a viewing or perhaps a wake, a formal service, transport between your funeral home and the cemetery, and the entombment or cremation of the remains.

Direct Burial - In this kind, the body is buried soon after death. No viewing involved, and the only real costs incurred are usually for transportation and care of your body, the coffin, and perhaps for a graveside service provided by a funeral home.

Direct Cremation - Like direct burial, no viewing is involved, and your body is cremated soon after death. Costs incurred act like the ones for direct burials, except there may be a cremation fee if the funeral home does not own the crematory used.

General Costs

The fees associated with a funeral may also be classified into common types, regardless of the actual arrangement. The Funeral Rule states that price quotes should be given in person, or higher the phone if requested, and that any visitor to the home must be provided with an itemized set of prices. Below are the most frequent fees charged by a funeral home:

Service Fee - This is the most elementary fee incurred, and is considered to be mandatory. The fee covers everything necessary to a funeral, such as funeral planning, care and storage of the remains, and processing fees for the necessary paperwork and permits.

Optional Merchandise Fee - These fees cover whatever is considered "optional". That always includes things like a casket or coffin, rental fees for the usage of a funeral home or chapel space, equipment and staff for a graveside service, and the use of any hearse or limo.

Cash Advances - These fees cover whatever the funeral home must purchase from outside vendors, such as flowers, clergy, and obituaries. Many funeral providers charge you for anything they must purchase for you personally. It's legal for them to add a service fees to the cost, however they must disclose this fact on paper beforehand.