Funerals can be very expensive but you do have options. Many of your choices may depend on how you view death and what your religious preferences dictate. There are flowers, caskets, cremation, eulogies, burial sites, viewings, wakes and a host of other terms that will be thrown at you.

If you are planning for your own future and to help minimize the details your family will have to go through, you need to envision what your funeral will look like. Will it be a solemn affair with the traditional service, pallbearers and flowers?

Perhaps you believe that death should not be a time of mourning but instead a celebration of life for the living. Regardless of what you envision, you need to have a detailed plan and leave those details in writing.

What type of expenses should I expect?

The typical funeral has several components. The first is the cost of the casket. After that you have to consider the cost for the embalmment, flowers, memorial pamphlets that are handed out during the service and the cost for the burial plot.

There are also miscellaneous expenses such as transportation to the cemetery as well as fees charged by the funeral home. If you elect for cremation there is a charge for that service.

What will my insurance cover?

Many people take out burial insurance along with their life insurance. This is to ensure that a good portion of the funeral costs are covered. How much your insurance will cover depends largely on the amount of policy you took out.

Burial insurance will typically have no restrictions outside of the amount of the policy. Life insurance will only be payable under certain circumstances and cause of death.

Most life insurance policies do not cover certain causes of death such as suicide. You need to review your insurance policy to determine how much is paid out and what, if any, stipulations are attached to the policy.

What will a cemetery plot cost?

Cemetery plots vary by location and city. An ocean view is going to cost much more than a plot in the middle of the cemetery. You also have to keep in mind that cremation plots or scattering gardens are generally cheaper than a casket plot.

Many families elect to buy several plots that are grouped together. Buying several plots ensures that you and your loved ones are together in one area and are much more affordable than buying a single plot. You will also need to factor in opening and closing costs for the land transaction along with any additional fees the city or cemetery charges.

What sort of arrangements should I, myself, take in the event of my death?

The first thing you, and anyone, should do is to create a will. The will can handle any material possession or money that you possess. It will also list a person as executor of your affairs.

You should make a detailed list of any specific things regarding your funeral and burial. Along with leaving a written copy, it is very advisable to discuss your wishes with family and friends so that there is no confusion. Be very clear and concise when it comes to your wishes so that there is no strife between family members or friends after you are departed.