Funeral costs, like most other costs in life, are based on actual operating costs. Operating costs are determined by adding together all the different components of running a business.

The funeral profession is like any other profession. We are a business providing a service to the community.

Don't Be Misled

Today, there are other businesses providing funeral related merchandise. They are selling caskets and urns, vaults and accessories. Before purchasing any funeral related items from an unlicensed funeral professional, compare costs and service. Ask questions. Compare quality of products, availability of products and get them in writing. Some cemeteries and retail stores may paint a picture of savings, when in fact they could cost your family more in the long run. Your Funeral Director is still the most knowledgeable person to use as a resource for funeral costs and information.

Funeral Expenses

Some expenses you may see on a statement from a Funeral Home could be: Funeral Home Service Charge, Casket and Vault. Many funeral homes will also arrange for cash advances or accommodation items for the family. These may consist of: Luncheons, Flowers, Newspaper Notices, Death Certificates, Clergy Stipends, Musicians, Cemetery Fees, and Printing Costs, to name a few.

When looking at a funeral cost estimate, keep in mind that the Funeral Home Service Charge is the portion of the bill that is used for payment to the Funeral Home for the cost of operation. All other costs for merchandise and cash advance items are personal selections made by the family.

Our best advice to you is to ask questions if you are not familiar with funeral costs. If it sounds too good to be true, many times it is. Caring for a deceased member of your family is something we at Proko-Wall take great pride in. Our staff is available 24- hours a day to answer your questions.

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