Funeral costs are normally paid out of your estate, but there can be some delay to receive these funds. Don’t worry though, as typically your bank or building society may be prepared to provide an advance for the cost of the funeral before probate is granted.
One effective way to eliminate this potential problem is to pay into a funeral plan which will release the cash when the funeral director submits the invoice. There are a number of firms that we work with, such as Golden Charter and Perfect Choice.
Prices usually start around 1,500 and are payable either in installments or in a lump sum. It is important to read the small print to see if your payment is guaranteed to cover the full cost of the funeral or if extra charges will be payable if the plan is not fully paid up.
At Harry Tomes Ltd. we are very experienced helping ensure you have the right plan for your needs and ensuring that financing is something that your family will not have to worry about.
It is important to advise your next of kin or executor of any financial arrangement you have made, and particularly if you have paid into a funeral plan as this may restrict the choice of funeral director.
Who’s in charge when I die
Your next of kin and your executor(s) are in charge when you die. If you have no will or no close relatives there can sometimes be complications.
Should I make a will
By making a Will you will ensure that your assets, no matter how small, are distributed in line with your wishes.
Making a Will
A will sets out how your estate (your assets) should be distributed, and names an executor(s) to take care of this task. A will is only valid if your signature has been witnessed by 2 adults who are not beneficiaries of the will in anyway.
Using a Solicitor
It is a good idea to ask a professional for help when you are writing your will, and it is not very expensive to hire someone for this task. You will receive help putting together a will that is free of confusion, and will most clearly reflect what you desire.
