How to arrange a funeral on a budget
Many families face financial difficulty when arranging a funeral. This is common and completely normal. There are practical options and financial support available to help you.
Your options for a lower-cost funeral
You have more choice than you might think. A funeral does not have to follow a particular pattern. What matters is that you can afford it and it feels right for your family.
Three main options are available if cost is a concern.
Direct cremation
Direct cremation is the most affordable option. The deceased is cremated without a service. No one attends the crematorium. Costs typically range from £900 to £1,800.
You can still gather separately to remember your family member if you wish. A small gathering at home costs nothing. A later memorial service in a meaningful place can happen whenever you are ready.
See our guide on direct cremation for full details, including what is included and what you can choose separately.
Simple attended cremation
A simple attended cremation includes a brief service at the crematorium chapel. A celebrant or conductor leads the ceremony. Family and friends can attend.
You can keep it minimal. A simple service with just a few words costs less than one with multiple hymns, readings, and catering. Many funeral directors offer straightforward packages starting around £1,500 to £2,000.
Ask your funeral director for their simplest option. Many will work with your budget if you are clear about what you can afford.
Council-arranged funerals
If no one can afford to arrange the funeral and the deceased has no money, the local authority can arrange it. This is sometimes called a public health funeral or pauper's funeral.
The council will arrange a simple cremation or burial at no cost to the family. It is a legal service, respectful and dignified. The council recoups costs from the estate if possible.
Speak to your local council's bereavement or registration service to discuss this option if you have no other way forward.
Check if you qualify for a Funeral Expenses Payment
The Department of Work and Pensions offers a Funeral Expenses Payment to certain people on low income. This is a one-off payment to help with funeral costs.
You may qualify if you are receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, or Housing Benefit, and you are responsible for arranging the funeral.
The payment goes towards reasonable funeral costs, up to a set limit. It does not cover everything in most cases, but it can reduce the amount you need to find yourself.
See our full guide to Funeral Expenses Payment for eligibility and how to apply.
Get multiple quotes and itemised costs
Always contact at least two funeral directors. Ask each for an itemised price list. By law, they must provide this on request.
An itemised list shows every charge separately. You can see exactly what you are paying for and where savings might be possible.
Prices vary between funeral directors and between areas. Getting quotes takes a few minutes and could save you hundreds of pounds.
When comparing quotes, check that both are for the same type of service. A direct cremation quote is not comparable to an attended cremation quote.
What you can cut or keep simple
Several elements of a traditional funeral are optional. You do not have to include them.
- Flowers and floral tributes
- A limousine or hearse for mourners
- A reception or catering after the service
- An ornate coffin or casket
- Printed order of service booklets
- Multiple cars and funeral vehicles
- An expensive venue for any gathering
You can have a meaningful funeral without any of these. If you want to include something, do so. If you cannot afford it, you do not need it.
Avoid credit and high-interest borrowing
If you are short of money, you may be offered credit to pay for the funeral. Payday loans and credit agreements with high interest rates will cost you far more in the long run.
Before borrowing, explore every other option. Ask your funeral director if they can defer payment until after the estate is settled. Contact citizens advice or speak to your council about hardship funds.
Some charities and funeral directors offer reduced-cost services to people in genuine hardship. It is worth asking.
Support and advice
If you are struggling financially, citizen's advice can help you understand what financial support you might be entitled to. They also offer free guidance on managing costs.
Your local council may have emergency hardship funds. Some funeral directors are experienced in working with families who have financial constraints and can offer practical solutions.
Do not feel pressured to spend more than you can afford. A simple, affordable funeral arranged with care is every bit as respectful as an expensive one.