How to budget for a funeral

Who is responsible for paying for a funeral?

If no pre-paid funeral plan or life insurance is in place, the responsibility for paying for a funeral typically falls to the person arranging it — usually a close family member or the executor of the estate. The cost is usually reclaimed from the deceased’s estate later through probate, but initially, payment may need to come from personal funds.

It’s important to note that funeral expenses take priority in the administration of an estate, meaning that banks will usually release funds directly to a funeral director before probate is complete.

However, research by British Seniors found that nearly half of the 1,500 people they questioned who had arranged a funeral within the past five years met some of the costs themselves (British Seniors Funeral Report 2025). Of these, a quarter said that the death was unexpected/no plan had been made, another quarter wanted to give their loved one a better send off, while more than a third said the deceased hadn’t saved/hadn’t set aside enough to cover the cost of their funeral.

Ways to save and budget for your own funeral

If you’re planning ahead for your own funeral and want to relieve loved ones of any financial burden, there are a few helpful ways to ensure that your wishes are both respected and affordable:

• Put away savings
  Regularly setting aside money in a dedicated savings account can be a simple way to prepare for funeral costs. Make sure your family or executor knows about this account and how to access it.
• Take out a life insurance plan
  A life insurance policy can help cover funeral costs, but be aware that payout times vary — it might not be immediately available. Always check policy details carefully.
• Set up a pre-payment plan with a regulated funeral plan provider
  This is often the most secure and reassuring option. A pre-paid funeral plan allows you to pay in advance for the funeral you want, locking in today’s prices and sparing loved ones from having to make difficult decisions later. Always ensure your plan provider is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), so your money is protected. Most plans cover the funeral director’s services, but some costs, such as flowers, cremation or burial fees, may still be payable at the time.

Can I afford the funeral I would like for my loved one?

It’s natural to want to honour your loved one in the best way possible — but that doesn’t mean overspending. Start by understanding all the elements that contribute to funeral costs. These may include:

• Collection and care of the deceased
• Doctor’s fees for cremation forms
• Cremation or burial fees
• Minister, celebrant or officiant fees
• Coffins and caskets
• Order of service sheets
• Transport (hearse and limousines)
• Flowers and venue hire
• Catering for the wake
• Urns, headstones and items of remembrance

For a full guide to what costs might be involved, visit our Funeral Costs page.

Ways to reduce the costs of a funeral

There are many ways to create a meaningful farewell while still being mindful of budget:

• Choose a standardised funeral package
  These often offer the most value and clarity on what’s included. Welham Jones provides a range of funeral packages tailored to suit different budgets and needs, crafted form our decades or experience to reflect the most commonly requested elements.
• Opt for a cremation instead of burial
  Cremations are generally more affordable than burials, particularly when cemetery fees are high.
• Hold the service at a less expensive time
  Weekday morning funerals can often reduce costs compared to peak-time bookings.
• Limit extras
  Personalised orders of service, high-end floral arrangements, or large receptions can all add up. Choose what’s meaningful, and let go of what’s not essential.
• Go green
  Many of the environmentally friendly coffins are among the more affordable, helping the planet as well as your budget.
• Get a clear, itemised quote
  Always ensure your chosen funeral director provides a full breakdown of costs — and don’t be afraid to compare quotes. At Welham Jones, we pride ourselves on our transparency and support during what can be a very emotional time.

A well-planned, dignified funeral doesn’t have to be expensive – with the right support and options, you can honour your loved one without financial strain.

If you’re looking for support planning your own funeral or that of a loved one, please contact us. We’re here to help guide you every step of the way.