KEEP THE STRESS OUT OF PLANNING FAMILY FUNERALS
DEATH is an upsetting subject – regardless of whether it’s your own funeral you are planning or that of a loved one – but not broaching the subject can cause problems further down the line.
Free-to-use consumer complaints website, Resolver.co. uk has seen an increasing number of people seeking help over problems that have arisen after the death of a relative. From probate to equity release, many of these disputes reportedly begin when family members disagree over what the deceased “would have wanted”.
Resolver has teamed up with funeral services provider, Dignity, to develop a guide that explains what your rights are when purchasing a plan and, importantly, how to complain if you’re not happy.
A prepaid funeral plan should protect you against the rising costs of funerals, allowing you to pay for your funeral in advance so relatives don’t have to cover all the costs themselves.
Check what is guaranteed to be covered and what isn’t. Funeral plans vary considerably with some only covering funeral director costs, while others may guarantee doctors’ fees and other charges such as cremation, burial and minister fees.
Watch out for plans that aren’t clear about exactly what you’re paying for.
Avoid making a snap decision to buy over the phone – a good funeral provider should be happy to give you time to consider.
Find out how your money is protected if the firm goes bust.
This is the biggie. Explain your plan and what is included to your family and friends, so they know what to expect and know you have a plan in place. This doesn’t have to be grim. Talk about music and mood. It’s a good way to broach the subject.
See Resolver’s full guide at resolver.co.uk/rights-guide/ funeral-plans. See our regular Resolver column on the opposite page for more consumer advice.