WHAT YOU SHOULD CHECK BEFORE TAKING OUT A PRE-PAID FUNERAL PLAN

Check your plan provider is registered with the Funeral Planning Authority. If in doubt, contact the FPA or check its list of registered providers on funeralplanningauthority.co.uk. If using what looks like a comparison site, be clear on what they are actually offering. Ask them specifically to list who they work with and whether their advice is totally independent. Check what is guaranteed to be covered versus what is not. Some funeral plans only ensure funeral director costs, while others guarantee cremation and minister costs. Where fewer things are guaranteed there is a real chance your loved ones may have to pay extra at the time. Avoid making a snap decision to buy over the phone. Quality providers will be happy to send you details through the post to consider in your own time. Ask your plan provider about the financial health of the trust and whether they are prepared to send you details to prove this. Explain your plan and what is included to your family and friends.