5 things you need to know about funeral costs Discover how a Prepaid Funeral Plan from Dignity can help save you over £2,600^

You're probably aware that funeral costs have been rising but as much as 63% in the last eight years alone to £3,737* is probably something you weren't expecting. Funeral costs look set to reach in excess of £6,100 by 2023* and that just covers the essential costs.

The Cost of Dying all mounts up. In addition to the average funeral cost above, additional spending could increase the final bill by another £4,433** when you include the costs associated with the send off and legal fees.

Funeral costs are leaving loved ones in financial difficultly. £2,440** is the average amount family members have to contribute towards the cost of a loved one's funeral if sufficient financial provisions are not made.

In situations where family members have to contribute, 50%** had to borrow the money to cover the cost of their loved ones funeral – potentially leaving them in financial difficulties at a time when they are dealing with grief. A good funeral plan should guarantee to fully cover the cost of the funeral director and cremation services in the plan, so there is no more for loved ones to pay for them. Almost 16%** of us have made no funeral plans because we are uncomfortable talking about death. That means our loved ones may not be aware of our funeral wishes, such as the type of funeral service we want, burial or cremation, and even songs, readings or hymns. A good funeral plan will allow you to document your personal wishes so loved ones don't have to make some of the difficult decisions in their time of grief. Dignity, the UK's leading provider of pre-arranged funeral plans and major provider of funeral services, offers one of the most comprehensive funeral plans on the market today. The Prepaid Funeral Plan fixes the costs of the cremation funeral services in the plan at today's prices. So no matter how much these costs may rise, you know these services will be guaranteed in full and there will be no more for your loved ones to pay.

Taking out a plan is straightforward. When you request your free information guide from Dignity you will receive a simple application form to complete and free silver pen. You can make a lump sum payment or spread the cost over 12 monthly payments at no extra charge. Longer payment options are also available for an additional fee. Plans start from as little as £1.25 a day. By taking out a Prepaid Funeral Plan before 19th December 2016 and saving £150 with our limited time Express reader offer, in just eight years alone you could save more than £2,600^