According to the National Funeral Directors Association, the median cost of a funeral for a funeral with a viewing and ceremony followed by burial is $7,615 in the East South Central part of the country, which includes Alabama. The cost of a viewing followed by cremation is less expensive, with the average cost being $5,858. After looking at average funeral costs, you may wonder if funeral financing in Alabama is available. Here are some ways to pay for funerals in Alabama.
How to Pay for Unexpected Funeral Costs
- The median cost of a traditional funeral with burial is $7,615, while a cremation service averages $5,858. These costs can be financially challenging for many families.
- Families can use life insurance policies, funeral loans, crowdfunding platforms, government assistance, and local charities to manage funeral expenses in Alabama.
- Personal loans can be used to finance funeral costs, and crowdfunding is a common way for communities to help families cover sudden or unexpected funeral expenses.
- Federal aid, like the Social Security death benefit, is minimal, but local governments or charities may offer additional support for those in need.
How to Pay for Your Loved One’s Funeral Who Died Unexpectedly
Managing unexpected funeral costs can be challenging. Many funeral homes require payment upfront before the funeral service can be scheduled. (Learn how to pay for future funeral costs by filling out this simple application found here.)
Here are a few ways to help pay for funeral expenses in Alabama.
1. Life insurance policies
Life insurance benefits can be used to cover funeral costs. Check with the deceased’s employer to see if a life insurance policy is a part of your loved one’s benefits.
If the deceased had a policy, beneficiaries can access the funds to pay for services, burial, or cremation. When you make arrangements, bring your loved one’s life insurance policy information to the funeral home. You can assign the policy to the funeral home, and the insurance company will pay them what they owe and send the rest to the policy’s beneficiary.
2. Funeral loans
Because of the nature of the industry, don’t expect your area funeral home to finance their services. However, some local or online lenders offer personal loans specifically for funeral expenses. A funeral loan allows families to borrow the needed funds and pay them back over time with affordable monthly payment plans. It’s essential to compare the interest rate and origination fees before applying for a personal loan.
Google, “leading funeral funding group,” to find online financing options.
3. Crowdfunding
Your community may be willing to help you pay for your loved one’s funeral, especially if the death was unexpected. Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe or social media networks provide a way for families to raise money for funeral costs from friends, family, and community members. This method is often used for sudden or unexpected deaths.
4. Government assistance programs
There are few government assistance programs to help pay for funeral home services at the federal level. The Social Security death benefit is $255 – and has been since 1954.
However, local and state governments may offer assistance programs for eligible Alabamans. Your funeral service provider is the best source for helping you find these programs.
5. Local charities
Local civic or religious groups sometimes help families without sufficient income to cover funeral expenses. You may need to contact these organizations individually to see what type of assistance is available.
Before you borrow money for your loved one’s funeral, schedule a consultation with Alabama Funeral Homes & Cremation Centers to discuss affordable options and prices. We offer direct cremation starting at $995. Our compassionate staff will help you plan an affordable funeral to honor your loved one. Contact a member of our team immediately for assistance.
